Everything you need to know about the ISDN Switch-Off
The Switch Off is approaching! In this post we'll summarise what the PSTN Switch-Off means for your business, what services will be impacted, and how to future-proof your business communications with the right solutions
What is the PSTN Switch-Off?
Traditional telephony and broadband connectivity has been supported by a network of analogue copper lines known as the PSTN, or the slightly more modern, but still outdated ISDN. This means that all solutions that still rely on PSTN/ISDN will need to move over to solutions that solely run via the internet or fibre technology. The deadline for the Switch-Off is 2025. But it's a process. One that will be completed gradually, and in fact, has already begun with the network becoming obsolete in locations around the UK.
If your business still relies on the PSTN/ISDN to power your solutions, the time to move to over to digital solutions is now to avoid your business communications, connectivity and business solutions being affected by the Switch-Off.
Your PSTN Switch-Off Jargon Buster
PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Network – old network that powers traditional telephone lines and legacy connectivity solutions.
ISDN: Integrated Services Digital Network, – old network that transmits both data and voice over a digital line.
VoIP: Voice over Internet Protocol – allows you to make and receive calls over the internet.
PBX: Private Branch Exchange – the general term used to describe a business telephone system.
Stop Sell: the locations where it will no longer be possible to purchase WLR products.
FTTC: Fibre to the Cabinet – a broadband connection that runs from your provider to roadside cabinets and connects to your business via a copper wire.
FTTP: Fibre to the Premises – fastest type of fibre on the market, offering a dedicated fibre optic cable connection from your local exchange to your business – no copper connections required!
SoGEA: Single Order Generic Ethernet Access, a broadband connection that doesn’t require an analogue phone line.
Why Is It Happening and What Will Replace the PSTN?
The reason the PSTN/ISDN is being shut down is because it no longer serves the needs of the modern world. We’ve moved on from only needing voice capabilities from our business phone system. Businesses are utilising video calls, instant messaging and other channels that the PSTN or ISDN wasn’t designed to support. Businesses are also demanding more from their connectivity to power a range of business services such as communications, technology, security and more, which copper solutions don’t have the speeds or bandwidth to cope with. Instead, the world is moving on to digital solutions powered by full-fibre connectivity and delivering voice services over the internet.
Not only will moving to internet and fibre-ran digital solutions future-proof your business, it will provide a wealth of new features and opportunities too. From improving communications to boosting productivity, streamlining processes and providing a better experience for your customers, digital solutions have the power to take your business to the next level.
Solutions Affected by the Switch-Off
ASDL Broadband
A legacy broadband technology that relies on a fixed single phone line connected to the PSTN.
FTTC
Connected to businesses via legacy copper lines which will become obsolete.
Analogue Lines & Calls Services
Any solutions that rely on physical copper lines will need to swap to VoIP.
Traditional PBX
Relies on a PSTN/ISDN-reliant traditional PBX, so will no longer work if not upgraded to VoIP.
Common services affected by the Switch-Off:
Many key solutions that use the PSTN will need to be replaced by internet-based solutions. This isn’t an exhaustive list of solutions that will be affected by the Switch-Off, but it will give you an idea of the solutions within your business that you will need to change to accommodate the phasing out of the PSTN/ISDN.
Legacy broadband connections – ADSL, FTTC, etc.
Analogue phone lines
Door entry systems
Traditional PBX phone systems
Emergency lines
Alarm systems
ATMs
Lifts
CCTV
The PSTN Switch-Off Timeline
PSTN Switch Off Replacement Services
Our expert team are here to make the move from the PSTN to internet-based technology simple, straightforward and cost-effective, by driving your digital transformation journey. Our range of products and services provide everything you need to replace or upgrade your existing solutions to future-proof your business, improve your operations and provide the best experience for your customers.
Explore each button below to discover our range of Voice Solutions that ensures your business is future-proofed and ready for the ISDN Switch-off.