The transition from the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to a fully digital alternative is set to be completed by 31 January 2027, prompting significant changes across various sectors in the UK. This initiative affects not only voice services but also essential equipment reliant on traditional copper lines, such as alarms, electronic point of sale (EPOS) devices, door entry systems, and CCTV.
Preparations for the switch to all-IP solutions have been underway, with the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) also scheduled to cease operation. Martin White, the all-IP product manager at Giacom and a co-chair at the Federation of Communication Services (FCS), indicated that steering groups guided by the Office of the Telecommunications Adjudicator (OTA) and Openreach are pushing for awareness and action regarding this transition.
He highlighted the critical role of specific coalitions, such as the Telecare Advisory Board (TAB) and Fire and Alarm Security board, in addressing the unique situations facing sectors that depend heavily on traditional telephony, including healthcare and security. Despite progress, White acknowledged the complexities involved, particularly for users reliant on legacy equipment: “The complexity of migrating all users in the UK, especially those relying on legacy equipment or hard-to-reach areas, highlights the need for continued investment, industry collaboration, and customer education.”
Adam Geldard-Williams, partner account manager at Evolve IP, elaborated on the challenges remaining, stating that while the migration of ISDN customers has progressed, focus must now shift to those with a more extensive analogue infrastructure, including large-scale operations and manufacturing. He remarked, “The phone system side of the switchover is reaching the finish line. It’s more niche areas that need focus.”
Organisations, such as PXC, are already engaged in practical trials to facilitate this transition. Louisa Clark, the product director at PXC, shared insights regarding her organisation’s trials, stating, “We’ve already completed a trial exiting 10 of our quietest exchanges, have participated in Openreach’s pilot migration project in Belfast, and were also part of the removal of all WLR lines in the Salisbury and Mildenhall exchanges.” This proactive approach reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance internal processes and better support the overall transition to fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) solutions.
Concerns regarding the adoption rates of digital alternatives persist despite advancements in infrastructure. Kristian Torode, director and co-founder of Crystaline, reported that, although the rollout of full fibre connectivity is accelerating – with 61% of UK premises now capable of accessing it – uptake remains sluggish. “Despite Openreach triggering stop-sells in exchanges where over three quarters of premises can access full fibre, nationwide uptake remains slow,” Torode noted.
Research conducted by Cavell revealed that awareness surrounding the switch is high among businesses, with close to 80% of those surveyed acknowledging the impending change. Nonetheless, as Patrick Watson, head of research at Cavell, pointed out, “More than 37 per cent of businesses expect it to have no impact” due to prior migrations to voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) systems.
Steven Lowe, product director for mobile at Gamma, raised the issue of an “awareness gap,” citing that nearly a third of UK businesses are not informed about the PSTN switch-off. He emphasised the urgency to address this gap, particularly among smaller businesses, which are less prepared for the transition.
To facilitate the shift, various digital alternatives are available for businesses, including fibre-based solutions such as FTTP and single order generic Ethernet access (SoGEA). White stated that, “The primary alternatives for connectivity include fibre-based solutions such as fibre to the premises [FTTP], SoGEA, and Ethernet connections, which provide robust digital infrastructure.”
Additionally, mobile broadband may serve as a viable alternative for updating PSTN lines. Tony Guerion, CEO of Cellhire Group, noted that cellular IoT connectivity can support legacy systems such as door entry systems and CCTV, ensuring operational continuity following the transition.
The recent decision to revise the final switch-off deadline from December 2025 to January 2027 has sparked mixed reactions. While some stakeholders view the extension as a valuable opportunity for businesses to prepare adequately, others worry it may curtail momentum. White noted that a slowdown in transformation efforts has been observed since the announcement, yet he encouraged early adoption as a strategic advantage to sidestep potential bottlenecks.
Myles Leach, managing director of NFON UK, echoed the sentiment of using the additional time effectively. “For small- and medium-sized businesses, this delay offers a valuable opportunity to evaluate and select the best alternative communication systems,” he remarked. Meanwhile, Clark cautioned against complacency stemming from the extended timeline, stressing the importance of rapid action to address the requirements of vulnerable customers.
The complexity of the situation necessitates considerable collaboration among stakeholders, with calls for enhanced support for the channel and clearer communication about migration plans and timelines. Ritchie Butters from 8x8 highlighted the importance of maintaining a fixed deadline to mitigate uncertainty: “If it is January 2027, people need to have absolute guarantees that this time BT means it.”
As the industry progresses towards the digital switchover, the focus will remain on providing clarity and support to businesses navigating the shift away from legacy systems. The landscape of communication is poised for transformation as stakeholders collaborate to ensure a smooth transition that fosters technological advancement and operational efficiency across the UK.
Source: Noah Wire Services