365 Days to Go: What the PSTN Switch-Off Means for Your Business

Natalie Strange

Managing Director @ RPS Telecom

January 30, 2026

The UK PSTN switch-off is now just 365 days away. By January 2027, traditional landlines and copper-based phone services will be permanently switched off, impacting businesses of all sizes.

If your organisation relies on legacy phone lines, analogue systems, or copper broadband, action is required now to avoid disruption, downtime, and rushed decisions.

What Is The PSTN Switch Off?

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the legacy copper network that has supported voice calls for decades. Openreach is retiring this infrastructure as part of the UK-wide move to digital communications.

Once switched off, traditional landlines will no longer function. Voice services will instead run over broadband using internet-based technology.

Why the PSTN Switch-Off Matters to Businesses

Many businesses assume they are unaffected, but PSTN services are often hidden within phone systems, alarm lines, payment terminals, and lift or door entry systems.

If your business uses a traditional business phone system or copper broadband, services may stop working without warning if no migration plan is in place.

The Risks of Leaving It Too Late

With only one year remaining, delaying action increases the risk of:

– Forced migrations with limited solution choice
– Higher installation and contract costs
– Disruption to customer communications
– Business downtime during peak periods

Early planning allows for a smooth, controlled transition.

The Move to FTTP Broadband and Cloud Voice

FTTP broadband (Full Fibre to the Premises) replaces copper lines with full fibre connectivity, offering faster speeds, improved reliability, and long-term future-proofing.

Modern cloud-based business phone systems operate over broadband rather than physical phone lines. This removes dependency on the PSTN and provides greater flexibility, scalability, and resilience.

Which Businesses Are Most Affected?

Sectors that rely heavily on inbound calls and availability are particularly exposed, including:

– Solicitors and legal firms
– Estate agents
– Healthcare and care providers
– Accountants and professional services
– Multi-site and customer-facing businesses

How RPS Telecom Supports the Transition

RPS Telecom works with businesses across South Wales to assess PSTN dependency, upgrade broadband, and implement modern business phone systems with minimal disruption.

Our approach focuses on clear audits, honest advice, phased migrations, and ongoing local support.

365 Days Is Less Time Than You Think

The PSTN switch-off is no longer a future issue. Businesses that act now will avoid last-minute pressure and gain a more resilient communications setup.

If you are unsure how the switch-off affects your business, now is the time to review your services.