The phone network used by traditional landline phones will be switched off by January 2027. These phones use a network known as the public switched telephone network (PSTN), which runs on out of date technology that’s costly to maintain.
Research from the National Business Communications revealed that 62.1 per cent of businesses still used a landline phone in 2023. But if your business is one of the many that still uses a landline, it doesn’t mean you’ll be without a phone after the PSTN switch off.
However, the government is advising business owners to plan ahead to avoid disruption to their business. So before they hang up the service, here’s what you need to know.
Why are landline phones being phased out?
The PSTN structure uses an analogue network which is difficult and expensive to maintain. Many countries have already completely switched over to digital phone systems.
This network was initially scheduled to be switched off by December 2025 – but this has now been extended to January 2027.
By switching to a digital system, users will get access to:
- better quality calls
- newer features
- reliable connections
What will replace landline phones?
Analogue landline phones are being replaced by digital counterparts – most likely Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems. Phone calls made through VoIP systems are transmitted by the internet rather than the outdated analogue systems of PSTN.
VoIP phones come in both software and hardware versions. Software can come in the form of an app you download to your mobile phone or tablet, whereas VoIP hardware is its own device – which could be a landline phone.
If the term VoIP seems unfamiliar to you, perhaps you’ve heard of the branded versions: BT Digital Voice, Sky Voice, and TalkTalk Voice. BT reports that 2.5 million people are already using their Digital Voice offering.
How small businesses can prepare for the PSTN switch off
While the PSTN switch off won’t happen until 2027, you can start preparing by switching to a VoIP system now.
VoIP systems benefit from:
- cheaper call costs (especially if you’re frequently making international calls)
- the ability to make the calls from anywhere you have internet
- advanced features such as voicemail and video conferencing
- faster speeds when using full-fibre connections (ideal for data and file transfer)
You should also check if your landline is being used for any other devices – such as lift alarms, burglar alarms, or card payment systems.
More technology guides for small businesses
- Best business broadband deals for small businesses
- Best business mobile deals for small businesses
- 7 new ways to use WhatsApp for business
- WhatsApp scams and online fraud: how to spot a small business scam
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