December 2nd 2024
ISDN SWITCH OFF - WHAT'S NEXT FOR 2025?
The ISDN Switch Off is expected to bring phone networks up to speed with the demands of modern communication. With an original deadline of 2025, the switch off has now moved to January 31st 2027, to support vulnerable people who’ve been put at risk in the process.
Businesses may use this delay as an excuse to delay their transition, but doing so will only bring them closer to disruption. The ISDN Switch Off isn’t on hold until 2027—in fact, changes are happening right now and in 2025.
Find out what’s planned for 2025 below.
What Key Changes Are Taking Place in 2025?
In 2025, Openreach will withdraw all Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) contracts on December 31st. After this date, any remaining WLR products will be subject to a three-month termination notice period.
Residents and businesses using WLR products rely on the PSTN to communicate using analogue and broadband technologies. With this withdrawal, these services will end in favour of new digital technology like VoIP phone systems and FTTP business broadband.
The three-month termination notice period allows customers using WLR products an extension of 90 days to switch to digital services. This allows telco providers, like Lily, to migrate their existing customer base at pace, ensuring the 2027 switch off is met.
Vulnerable people who have had the most impact from the switchover will have more time to migrate to a digital phone line with the support of their telco provider.
Goodbye PSTN, Hello IP
Old analogue technology (the PSTN and ISDN) will cease by early 2027 and be replaced by digital phone services - IP. Internet Protocol (IP) technology transmits phone calls, data and videos over the Internet, meaning all forms of communication are digitalised.
With an all-digital network, this technology can transfer more data faster and easily manage data-hungry applications like streaming and video conferencing. These digital IP services also guarantee five times fewer faults, meaning minimal downtime.
As a business embracing digital transformation, you’ll want much more than what analogue technology offers. IP technology, like hosted phone systems, allows you to receive calls on any device from wherever you are. This level of flexibility can significantly improve team productivity and communication.
What Do You Need to Do?
Now is the time to switch to digital technology before more disruption arrives. To ensure success, your business should:
1 - Audit Your Existing Systems
The ISDN Switch Off will impact other equipment that use the PSTN or ISDN. Examples include door entry systems, CCTV, fax machines, alarms, lift lines and Point-of-Sale machines.
A Managed Service Provider, like Lily, will help you list services that’ll be impacted and provide the best options for your business. You’ll also need to check the terms of your contract for existing systems to see if you can switch now to save money.
2 - Check Your Broadband
VoIP phone systems rely on a good internet connection, so you may need to upgrade your business broadband to a new fibre service like FTTP. If you use Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC), your broadband will be affected as it uses the PSTN.
3 - Partner with Lily
If you’re unprepared, don’t panic. At Lily, our expert team of advisors has helped hundreds of businesses migrate to digital technology. We’ll work with you to understand your goals, requirements and potential pitfalls.
After that, we’ll set a roadmap to get your business communications digitalised and up to speed.
Time Is Running Out! Switch Today with Lily.
Curious about how a hosted phone system will benefit your business? Make the switch today with Lily. Our team of experts will make the transition as quick and seamless as possible. Contact us today.