BT will Switch Off its Telephone Network in 2025 and why it's important for Small Businesses in the UK

It’s shocking but true that there are still many small businesses out there who are unaware that by 2025, BT will be switching off their traditional analogue (PSTN and ISDN) telephone network.

According to reports, only one in five businesses know the PSTN switch off, while 59.7% are unsure. So we’ve decided to share how the BT switch-off could impact your business, and what you need to do in these changing times. But first, let's look at what BT Switch off really is and why it's a big deal.

What does it Mean by BT Switch Off 2025?

BT Openreach predicts that the analogue telephone network (PSTN and ISDN) will be completely shut down in 2025. In the UK, every phone line will become digital due to this action, and calls will be routed using Internet-based VoIP or IP technology, a complete shift in communication technology toward digital (ISDN is a form of digital communication too, but runs over the same traditional copper lines as PSTN services which are being phased out).

The process has already begun, as Openreach will have ceased selling copper lines in more than 460 locations by the end of August 2022, and they will completely stop offering new PSTN and ISDN services in the UK as of September 2023.

Why is BT Shutting Off the Analog Network?

Copper wire networks were established in the 1800s and still use technology from that period. Keeping these antiquated systems up and running has become more difficult and expensive, with increasing costs passed on to the user.

Currently, there are many possibilities for data transmission that are faster, more reliable, and more affordable due to the rapid development of technology. Several countries have already transitioned to all-digital networks, but the UK is lagging.   

Who will be Affected by BT Switch Off?

The looming transfer, however, is not just for companies. The BT switch-off is also going to impact home users. This could potentially be problematic if your company has a hybrid work environment or participates in a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program.

Analogue lines are often used to connect and alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV, faxes, telephones, and other communication devices. So it's crucial that anyone reliant on existing analogue infrastructure upgrades their networks.

Whether or not you transition to a cloud-based VoIP service, deploy SIP trunks with your existing (or new) equipment is something your telecoms service provider will be able to advise you about. We’re not going to explore these pros and cons of either in this article.

What does this mean for you, then? Continue reading to find out why now is the moment to build a digital network, how it can influence your company, and how to avoid getting left behind when the ISDN and PSTN are shut down.

What Your Business Needs to Do to Get Ready for BT Switch off 2025?

In 2025, the PSTN will be shut down. We will all use digital phone services from that point forward, whether at home or work. There are already many companies that have successfully transitioned to using digital technology. Their cloud-based phone system isn't just prepared for the future , it can typically offer many additional benefits. Here are a few steps to take part in the mass transition:

1.   Get High-level Internet Connectivity

Nowadays, businesses of all kinds demand reliable, high-quality Internet connectivity, regardless of location. By nature, cloud-based apps require reliable, high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity. Collaboration and digital voice services are similar.

They can use the same fast Internet connection to participate in jitter-free video conferencing, make clear voice calls, and collaborate in real-time. Connectivity is not only required for today's needs but also anticipated future demands. Deploying high-speed Internet services is essential to your business thriving in the future.

2.   Inspect Who Else is Using Your Voice Line

The second important consideration is identifying other users of your phone lines before you begin. Calls aren't the only applications for which phone lines are used in businesses. Many door entry systems, alarms, lift emergency lines, payment terminals, and cash machines all use your existing PSTN phone lines. These are known as "special services."

You must identify everything using your PSTN and ISDN lines because switching to digital will affect how these special services operate.

Then, generally speaking, you have three choices:

• Put the equipment on IP mode (if available).
• Discuss with your specialty service provider about switching to an IP equivalent.
• Use an ATA device to convert the special service's analogue signal to digital (IP), allowing your special service to continue functioning with the new digital phone service.

3.   Educate Your Team Members

Educating your employees how to use an all-digital phone service will enable them to benefit the most from it. Your chances of maximizing the benefits are higher if they are more aware and involved. Your workforce will be more willing to assist you in achieving those advantages if you can get them fired up about getting their hands on the new equipment.

4.   Embrace the New Technology

Switching to an all-digital phone service involves more than just carrying out your current activities. Your new job will allow you to try new working methods and alter your communication style.

In general, cloud-based communications services offer a lot more functionality than you might be accustomed to. They can quickly incorporate mobile devices and apps to start. In addition, you’ll have easier access to their full reporting, which will assist you in learning more about the actions of your customers and employees. They'll also give you the freedom to work differently. It's a chance to reassess your company and possibly implement remote work.

Before switching over to your new system you’ll need to consider your current phone lines and if you need to duplicate each one on the new system. Also, you’ll need to decide what to do with your current phone numbers. If your clients are familiar with them, keeping them by porting them to the new service is relatively straightforward.

Let Us Help You Transition Your Business!

Transferring your current communication system to an all-digital cloud-ready service need not be a cumbersome task. There may be a lot of factors to consider, but your service provider should be able to help navigate you through the transition.

At Omni Communications, we are experienced at helping small business to transition their communications services towards the latest digital technologies. Whether you are a single-user business or a multi-site enterprise, we can provide you with a complete suite of communication services to increase the return on investment for your business.

For more information on how we help with Digital Marketing Strategy, contact us using the Contact Form below, call us on 0161 507 7999