PSTN Switch Off 2027: Is your existing phone system up to the task?

PSTN Switch Off 2027: Is your existing phone system up to the task?

Change to digital VoIP technology & Save Money!

Is your business prepared for the impending Big Switch-off?

Transform your communication infrastructure to digital VoIP technology and future-proof your company. » Beat the rush. Secure your spot today »

What exactly is the PSTN Switch-off?

It started on the September 5th, 2023, BT Openreach ceased offering new services on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), marking a significant milestone in transitioning to modern technologies.

This kickstarted the phase-out process, culminating in the complete PSTN switch-off scheduled for the beginning of 2027.

This stop-sell means that from September 5th, 2023, BT Openreach discontinued the provision of new PSTN-based services.

Existing legacy PSTN services remain functional until the complete switch-off in 2027, however, no new services can be purchased or alterations made to existing ones reliant on ISDN or PSTN during this phase.

What is the modern alternative?

As businesses adapt to the evolving landscape, many are embracing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. VoIP facilitates calls and data transmission over the internet, offering an opportunity to transition to an all-digital solution and fortify businesses for the future. View our Business Phone Systems.

The decommissioning of PSTN lines marks a monumental technological shift, but the transition need not be daunting; although meticulous planning is essential.

However, you don’t need to go it alone. We have performed this transition successfully for countless companies already.

Many with very complicated telecommunications setups.

Speak to our team of experts to ensure your transition goes smoothly.

How can Aspire assist in the switch for my business?

The imminent PSTN Switch-off signifies a major telecom industry shift. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, Aspire offers comprehensive solutions.

Our array of products, including:

• Apex Contact Centre Platform

• 3CX Business Communications

• Aspire Cloud PBX

• ISDN to VoIP Gateway

• MS Teams & CRM Integrations and more,

catering to all your business telecommunication needs.

We ensure to keep your communications live during transition and also future-proof your communication setup for a more efficient service for your staff and customers moving forward.

Be aware, that staying with your current provider might not be the most economical decision. Not only can we carefully and seamlessly move over the most complicated of setups, but we can also save you a substantial amount each month.

For more details on our business cloud solutions, consult with a specialist.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the PSTN Switch-off:

When does the PSTN Switch-off commence?

The process began on September 5th, 2023, with BT Openreach's national stop-sell of PSTN services. When will the PSTN be shut down completely?

BT Openreach plans to phase out the traditional analogue telephone network entirely by 2027.

Why is the PSTN shutdown happening?

The PSTN has been serving as the UK's telecommunications infrastructure since the 1800s. To maintain and upgrade the system has become too inefficient and expensive. With new technology available, BT Openreach aims to transition to a fully digital network to meet the demands of the new era.

How does the PSTN Switch-off impact my business?

Businesses relying on PSTN and ISDN services need to transition to the new network by 2027 to sustain their communication services.

As you can imagine 1000s of businesses will need to make the transition over the coming months with a limited number of provider slots available. Don’t leave it too late, as you may not have a working phone system come the start of 2027 which could disrupt your business operations.

When should businesses switch their services from the PSTN?

Start planning now. Speak to Aspire to discuss your system requirements and we will commence the required preparations to ensure you have a smooth transition.

Do I need phone and broadband?

You will need a robust broadband and modern VoIP systems to handle the new digital communications technology.

We will advise you on the right tech package for your needs.

What is VoIP?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is a technology that allows you to make voice calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular analogue phone line.

It is far superior to PSTN and ISDN in call quality and cost effectiveness. VoIP enables modern features such as video conferencing, work-from-anywhere, mobile telephony and more.

Will I still be able to make emergency 999 calls?

Things will change but your access to emergency services and important phone numbers will be included in your VoIP setup. Telecoms providers are legally obliged to ensure emergency call access is available.

Ready to make the switch?

We at Aspire are ready to help you navigate your way through the PSTN Switch-off. Contact us to explore options and ensure a seamless transition into the digital era. » Beat the rush. Secure your spot today »

PSTN/ISDN discontinuation by 2027: Your Phone System's Next Steps

Substantial savings await through VoIP Farewell, line rental!

ISDN circuits typically charge line rental per channel - having 60 channels could cost as much as 60x £12 = £720 per month.

This substantial sum could be saved by your business each month.

Call costs

Have your call costs decreased annually in line with falling wholesale pricing?

Many companies tied to long-term ISDN contracts often endure high rates for telephone calls. We offer significant savings on VoIP calls by providing updated call rates, especially for high-usage businesses.

Understanding PBX

PBX stands for Private Branch Exchange, an internal private telephone network used by businesses to make and receive calls and transfer data between PBXs. It's a crucial part of any business communication setup that requires careful planning and management.

Do you possess an onsite PBX System?

If your onsite PBX functions impeccably and satisfies your needs, parting with it might not be ideal. However, hosted VoIP could be an alternative worth considering, even with a functional onsite PBX. VoIP offers advantages such as increased flexibility, scalability, and cost-savings.

With a hosted VoIP solution, you can retain your existing PBX while benefiting from VoIP advantages, saving costs and avoiding the hassle of replacing your entire telephony system.

You can utilize an ISDN to VoIP Gateway device to continue using your current PBX system, making calls over the internet via a VoIP account.

This way, you enjoy savings on Line Rental and Calls while using existing handsets, minimizing staff disruptions during installation and training for a new system.

Advantages of a cloud-hosted PBX system

Ready to adopt the next generation of PBX technology by hosting your PBX service in the cloud?

This offers dual benefits:

you eliminate the need to power and maintain onsite PBX equipment while gaining access to modern PBX features such as Video Conferencing, Company Chat, CRM integrations, Smartphone Apps, Desktop apps, and more.

Like any network device, there comes a time for upgrading older technology, especially valuable in modern workplaces where employees engage in hybrid working and require efficient call management.

When to conduct your ISDN/PSTN switch-off?

You can retain your existing telephone numbers by porting them from your ISDN circuit to your new VoIP account.

Number porting is possible only while the ISDN circuit is operational, so refrain from cancelling your ISDN circuit before completing number porting to your new VoIP provider.

The porting process is straightforward, involving a porting form confirming the change in hosting provider for your telephone numbers.

Once submitted, we'll provide a date for transferring number hosting, typically within 2 to 3 weeks.

Streamlining the process – organizing a smooth ISDN/PSTN end-of-life transition!

We understand this may seem complex and represents a significant decision for your business.

Telephone connectivity is vital to most businesses, so uninterrupted service is crucial. Your VoIP account can operate alongside existing ISDN circuits, with engineers managing the transition between ISDN and VoIP onsite in most cases, ensuring zero interruption to business operations.

Whichever path you choose for the VoIP switch, we can oversee the process from start to finish. It all begins with a free consultation with our telecom experts.

Reach out via phone or chat for assistance.

2027 Marks the switch-off year!!

£720/m Represents potential savings, based on 60 ISDN channels!