The UK’s copper telephone network, the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is being permanently switched off. The deadline is January 2027. That sounds like plenty of time. It isn’t.

What is actually being switched off?

• Traditional landlines and ISDN business phone lines
• Analogue PBX telephone systems connected to copper infrastructure
• Alarm systems and CCTV that dial out over phone lines
• Lift emergency lines
• EPOS payment terminals using analogue connections
• Fax machines

The risk of “silent failure” is significant; systems that appear to be working today may simply stop functioning on or before the switch-off date with no warning. This is particularly relevant for dental practices (where alarm systems protect equipment and patient data) and schools (where lift emergency lines and fire alarm diallers may rely on the old network).

What replaces it?

The good news: modern alternatives are better and, in most cases, cheaper. The main options are:

• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Calls made over your broadband connection. Scalable, flexible, feature-rich and typically lower cost than traditional lines.
• SIP Trunking: Connects your existing on-site phone system to the IP network, often the most cost-effective route if you have recently invested in hardware.
• Hosted / Cloud Phone Systems: Your entire phone system moves to the cloud, with no on-site hardware to maintain.

Over two-thirds of UK landlines have already migrated to digital (VoIP) — full migration is required by January 2027. Source: UK Government / Ofcom. Has yours made the switch?

Already receiving migration notices? Let HBT assess your current lines and recommend the right solution.