In 2027, the ISDN/PSTN switch-off marks the end of an era for traditional telephony. With the transition to modern communication systems, Barton Telecom emerges as your reliable partner to smoothly navigate this change. Offering expert guidance and advanced solutions, we ensure a seamless switch to cutting-edge technologies, empowering your business for the future.
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Why are ISDN/PSTN networks being switched off?
With the huge growth and improvements of digital communication, the ISDN & PSTN network is unable to cope with the demands of the nations communication needs. ISDN & PSTN networks are both delivered using copper cables which are expensive to maintain and are in a constant state of degradation due to their age. The introduction and advancements in VoIP solutions has also meant the requirement for ISDN/PSTN services has dramatically reduced.
What does this mean for my business?
- From 31st January 2027, traditional phone lines will be switched off. So if you’re currently using this network, alike thousands of UK businesses, your company will lose its telephone line connection.
Though its not all doom and gloom, as systems replacing it (cloud-telephony/VoIP) offer much more resilience than traditional phone lines.
Also, massively increased flexibility, allowing businesses not to be tied by physical locations and so much cabling.
ISDN & PTSN Alternatives
What will replace the traditional lines?
The two replacement products are SIP trunks or a cloud-based phone system. SIP trunks (Session Initiation Protocol) are phone lines that work down the internet and connect to your PBX (Private Branch Exchange). Cloud based phone systems are the way that most companies are now directing their telephony. The arrival of flexible working was a major reason that this turned into the preferred method. Cloud systems come with plenty of features included and don’t often require a large upfront cost.
Both methods require a fast, reliable internet connection.
How do I switch from ISDN/PTSN to a modern telecom solution?
You leave this to our team of professional, experienced VoIP engineers. Barton Telecom Services will deal with it all. A number port is required, which is the process of moving your existing phone numbers to an internet-based product. Our team of experts at Barton Telecom Services have over 25 years experience and are happy to arrange all of this for you.
Lets discuss the Switch-off
FAQs around the BT Network Switch Off
The switch off is the removal of the integrated service digital network (ISDN) and public switch telephone network (PSTN). All voice traffic will need to work through the internet (VoIP) by January 2027.
BT have announced that the switch off is due to take place at the end January 2027. The deadline is fast approaching so it’s worth starting to look at upgrading your traditional phone services sooner rather than later. The longer you leave it, the more risk you have of losing your phone service.
All the services that you’re paying for should be listed on a bill from your supplier. Alternatively, get in touch with us and we can find out by looking on our portal.
The answer is quite simple, everyone who is still running their telephony over the BT copper network is at risk of losing their services if they have not upgraded by the end of January 2027. This includes all ISDN telephone lines and analogue lines. Don’t forget lines being used for fax, franking or PDQ card machines.
The ISDN / PSTN network is now outdated and it is becoming more expensive to maintain. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology is far superior and more suited to current working requirements. The priority for Openreach moving forward, is to maintain a high availability full fibre broadband network.
Do you have any other questions about BT's 2027 Switch Off?