Legacy Protect
We’re upgrading analogue lines to keep your business connected, now and beyond the PSTN switch off.
Welcome to Legacy Protect.
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch off, as you may already be aware, is now well underway and on schedule for completion by the end of 2025. In September, BT Openreach initiated a nationwide stop-sell of legacy services which means it’s no longer possible to purchase or modify services which rely on ISDN or PSTN.
All traditional lines, such as analogue phone lines, ISDN phone systems used by businesses and older internet connections such as ADSL and FTTC broadband, will become fully obsolete once the PSTN has been fully switched off.
So, ahead of the switch off, it’s time to futureproof your services.
Futureproofing your services
To protect the analogue services of our customers from Openreach’s Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) withdrawal, your legacy lines have been seamlessly upgraded to our next generation service – Legacy Protect.
We have talked to our customers, and we have taken the feedback on board. Some feel the process of upgrading to all-IP digital technology sounds time-consuming and disruptive. Others, understandably, are concerned about the potential financial impact of updating systems and services.
We know many of our customers are happy with their current services and would prefer to upgrade when ready, rather than when presented with a deadline!
When you're ready, we're here to help. As part of our commitment to helping businesses transition to the cloud and full fibre connectivity services, all Focus Group customers currently receiving the Legacy Support or Legacy Protect service, are automatically entitled to make the transition with no upfront installation charges for equipment or associated licensing.
Legacy line replacement
Legacy Protect provides a highly economic replacement for your legacy analogue lines, ensures business continuity, and helps offset the regular price increases which are implemented by Openreach on its line rentals.
There is no migration cost attached to Legacy Protect and importantly, there is no change to existing contracts.
A small additional monthly fee will be charged for Legacy Protect, meaning you can rest assured your services will continue to be operational and supported by our team. Giving you the time, you need to make an informed decision on what to do with your service.
FAQ's
Why do I need Legacy Protect?
Legacy Protect puts you in control of your telephony and safeguards your services. It also means you are not bound by the Openreach stop sell and impending PSTN switch off, meaning your services will continue to function as they do today.
What services are impacted by the PSTN switch off?
The important thing to understand is that it won't just affect traditional telephone lines, but also the products and services which rely on these lines such as.
- Alarm systems
- EPOS
- Lift systems
- CCTV
Legacy Protect can help you avoid the financial impact of upgrading these services.
Can I cancel Legacy Protect?
Legacy Protect will need to remain in place if you wish to avoid upgrading to an IP solution. We have listened to our customers who do not want to be bound by Openreach’s strict switch off and want the flexibility without the pressure of a cut-off date.
If you’d like to discuss alternative options, please talk to our Customer Engagement team today on 0330 024 2200
Do I need to reprogram equipment on these lines?
Our Support teams are ready to help if required. Check our InFocus customer portal for useful guides.
Why have you not applied Legacy Protect to my Analogue Multi-line?
Legacy Protect can only work on single analogue lines. If you still use analogue multi-line contact our Customer Engagement today on 0330 024 2200
Will Select Services such as Call Divert Continue to work?
There will be a change in how these are set up. Check our InFocus customer portal for useful guides. Access our customer portal here >
What happens if I’d prefer to upgrade to IP and futureproof my services now?
Speak to our Customer Engagement team today. We can plan this without the pressure of a Openreach cut-off date, ahead of the rush to upgrade before the deadlines and guide you through the options best for you and your business.
Can I order new/add Legacy Protect assets
Yes, you can! Unlike Openreach services, from which you can no longer purchase or modify services following the stop-sell in September. Our Customer Engagement team will be happy to help with anything you need.
Does Legacy Protect affect my contract with Focus Group?
No, it doesn’t, your contract terms with Focus Group remain unchanged.
