Business User Guidance
With the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) shutdown in the UK set to fully take effect by 2025, end business customers are facing a significant transitional phase away from traditional telephony towards more modern solutions. The PSTN shutdown involves the cessation of analogue voice services, affecting many businesses still relying on traditional lines for voice calls, fax machines, and alarm systems. Preparing for this change is crucial to ensure uninterrupted business operations. Here are the steps end business customers should take:
Audit and understand Your own Estate
Conduct a comprehensive audit of your current telephony infrastructure. Identify all devices and services relying on PSTN lines, including telephones, fax machines, alarm systems, and payment terminals.
Consult with Your Telephony Provider
Engage with your current telephony provider to understand the timeline and specific implications for your services. If they haven't engaged with you, don't fear contacting them. This should be on their radar!
Implement Necessary Hardware or Software Updates
Some equipment, especially older hardware, may not be compatible with new digital services. Identify what needs upgrading or replacement and make the necessary investments in new hardware or software.
Seek Professional Advice
The PSTN shutdown is a complex beast and you are likely to need support with all of the above points.
The primary advice I'd offer is to rely on your Communication provider for support; they ought to be spearheading this transition. If they're falling short in this role, rest assured, numerous other communication providers are eager and ready to welcome and support your business!
Evaluate Your Internet Connectivity
Assess your current internet infrastructure to ensure it can support the increased load from VoIP and other online services. You may need to upgrade your internet connection to handle high-quality voice calls and additional data traffic.
Plan for Business Continuity
Consider how the transition will affect your business operations. Plan for potential disruptions during the switch-over period and ensure you have contingencies in place, such as temporary mobile solutions.
Stay Informed About Regulatory Changes
Keep abreast of any regulatory or compliance changes related to telecommunications in the UK. This is particularly important for sectors with specific data protection, privacy, or industry-specific regulations.
Common Business Services Affected by the Switch-Off
Numerous essential PSTN-dependent solutions must transition to internet-based alternatives due to the PSTN shutdown. While this isn't a complete list of affected solutions, it serves as an indicator for businesses to identify and modify relevant systems in preparation for the PSTN/ISDN phase-out.
- Legacy broadband connections – ADSL, FTTC, etc.
- Analogue phone lines
- ISDN2 & ISDN30
- Door entry systems
- Traditional PBX phone systems
- Emergency lines
- Alarm systems
- ATMs
- Lifts
- CCTV
Replacement Products
There are various options tailored to your specific needs, encompassing both common replacement solutions and more specialised services for scenarios lacking a direct migration route.
Standard Connectivity Replacement Services
- SoGEA
- FTTP
- Ethernet
- Mobile Connectivity
Standard Voice Replacement Services
- SIP trunks
- UCaaS
- VOIP based Phoneline replacement
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