A business owner's guide to navigating the PSTN switch-off
Author: Laurence Glen | Date published: June, 30, 2025, UK | Read est: 5 min read
A major shift is underway within the UK's underlying telecommunications system.telecommunications system. The so-called Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off is going to fundamentally change how businesses communicate and operate, though many organisations remain unaware of its implications. This isn't a change that will only touch large corporations or fledgling startups; it's a nationwide overhaul set to impact companies of every type and size, from sole traders to bigger enterprises.
What is the PSTN switch-off?
The PSTN, or Public Switched Telephone Network, is essentially the traditional analogue phone line infrastructure that has been the backbone of communications for over a century. Think of it as the copper wiring that connects your landline phone to the broader network. However, this system is showing its age. Built on outdated technology, it is increasingly expensive to maintain and energy-intensive. It cannot keep up with the speed and bandwidth demands of the digital age. This is why it's being switched off: to make way for modern, fibre-optic, internet protocol (IP)-based networks.
This effort is being led by Openreach, the company responsible for the UK's broadband and telephone network. While the original target for the full PSTN switch-off was the end of 2025, this has now been pushed back to 2027. Despite being postponed, the urgency for businesses to prepare remains. The transition is already well underway, with "stop sell" dates already in effect for many areas, meaning new PSTN services cannot be ordered.
The impact of this switch-off extends far beyond just traditional phone calls. Businesses need to be aware that a wide array of services and equipment currently relying on PSTN lines will cease to function. This includes traditional landlines, older business phone systems, ADSL, and some Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) broadband services that depend on the underlying copper PSTN line for connectivity. Any equipment or service still communicating over a traditional copper phone line will be affected, which means that critical systems should be reviewed to check if they will be impacted.
For example, security systems like burglar, fire, and lift alarms that communicate over PSTN lines for monitoring could stop working, posing significant safety and security risks. Some legacy remote CCTV monitoring systems that use PSTN for data transmission will also stop working.
Businesses relying on PSTN-dependent tech for payments may also run into trouble. Older electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) systems that connect via dial-up will be affected, as will older credit card machines that use PSTN lines for transaction processing.
Lastly, franking and fax machines are at risk. Many franking machines rely on analogue lines for updates and to top up credit. And, yes, some businesses still frequently use fax! Any company still using fax will find their machines inoperable.
The "unaware" factor and potential losses
Despite the looming 2027 deadline, many businesses across the UK still need to get up to speed on the PSTN switch-off. The potential consequences of ignoring the switch-off are severe. We're not just talking about an inconvenience here; we're talking about critical business disruption.
Imagine being unable to make or receive calls, forward and send important mail, or have your broadband connection suddenly cease to function. Payment systems suddenly going offline could lead to substantial financial losses from downtime and missed transactions, and without alarm systems or CCTV systems operating, physical premises could be vulnerable.
For those who delay, being "cut off" from essential services is a stark reality. The time to act is now, not later. One reason for this is that the demand for migration services will undoubtedly increase as the switch-off deadline approaches. Businesses that procrastinate risk facing increased costs and limited availability of engineers. Proactive planning for an early transition will ensure a smoother, more controlled upgrade, safeguarding your business against setbacks.
What to do now
The imminent PSTN switch-off signals a complete migration to "All-IP", an Internet Protocol-based world where all communications, from voice to data, travel over the Internet. This means technologies like Voice over IP (VoIP) and fibre broadband will become the standard.
Audit of existing systems
The first step for businesses is a thorough audit of all existing systems and services. Identify every piece of equipment that relies on a traditional copper phone line, from your primary phone system and broadband connection to alarm systems, EPOS machines, franking machines, CCTV, and payment terminals. Every single device needs to be assessed for its compatibility with the new IP-based network.
Get help from the pros
Expert guidance is invaluable here. At Focus Group, we are specialists in navigating this complex process. We undertake comprehensive assessments for clients that identify all affected services and provide tailored migration plans that ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption to business operations.
Cloud Voice/VoIP
For voice communications, we offer flexible and scalable solutions like Cloud Voice/VoIP. Meanwhile, SIP Trunks provide a seamless digital alternative to outdated ISDN lines for those with existing on-premise PBX systems.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another key area. Focus Group provides robust Full Fibre Broadband (FTTP) for faster, more reliable Internet and dedicated Leased Lines for businesses with critical operations demanding guaranteed performance. We also offer mobile connectivity solutions suitable as either a primary or backup communication channel. To mitigate safety and security risks, Focus Group advises clients on and facilitates the upgrade of alarm systems to IP-compatible versions.
The clock is ticking for the PSTN switch-off. Don't delay your business's transition or rush it at the last minute.
Let's partner!
By taking a proactive approach with Focus Group, businesses can transform this essential upgrade into an opportunity. Let's make the shift to All-IP easier, more cost-effective, and truly future-proof.
Don't wait until it's too late – talk to us about the PSTN switch off UK today! Get in touch for a free PSTN consultation or assessment.
Laurence Glen
IT Director
Our IT world, together with the ongoing development of this business-critical portfolio of services, is in very capable hands with Laurence at the helm. IBM-trained and with a 22-year track record of proven success in the IT sector ensures Laurence is perfectly placed to lead the overall IT strategy for Focus Group, ensuring we’re at the forefront of product development and service innovations in order to deliver the best possible IT technologies for our customers.
