The PSTN switch-off is coming—and your business needs to be ready. By January 2027, all legacy phone lines and broadband services running on the ageing Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), including ISDN, ADSL, and FTTC, will be permanently retired. Every UK business must upgrade to digital, fibre-based alternatives. From assessing your current setup to switching you to a reliable VoIP system, we’re here to guide your transition every step of the way.
What is the PSTN switch-off?
The PSTN switch off refers to the planned withdrawal of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) which is the ageing analogue network that has supported voice and broadband services in the UK for many decades. This change is being led by Openreach and will impact every business that still relies on traditional landline services or ISDN connections.
All traditional PSTN-based services—including analogue lines, ISDN phone systems, and older broadband technologies like ADSL and FTTC—will become fully obsolete once the switch-off is complete.
Simply put, the PSTN can no longer keep up with the demands of modern digital communication. It’s being replaced by a full fibre network that is faster, more reliable, and capable of supporting the technologies today’s businesses depend on
When Is the PSTN Switch Off Happening?
The final PSTN switch-off date is 31st January 2027. After this point, all PSTN and ISDN services will be permanently withdrawn. If your business is still using legacy phone systems, now is the time to act. Delaying could lead to service disruptions, lost communication, and avoidable costs.
| Event | Date |
| Stop Sell Begins | 5th September 2023 |
| Legacy Service Withdrawal Begins | From 2024 |
| Final PSTN Switch off | 31st January 2027 |
The final PSTN and ISDN switch-off is coming on 31 January 2027. If your business is still running on legacy phone lines, you risk losing calls, customers, and revenue when the change happens.
Don’t wait for disruption to strike — we can help you plan, upgrade, and make the move to a futureproof solution without the stress or inflated last-minute costs.
What does the PSTN switch-off mean for your business?
With the big switch off not set to take place until January 2027, businesses still have time to explore digital alternatives. The traditional PSTN is nearing the end of its life and it’s important make the switch to digital solutions such as Business Fibre Broadband, Voice over Internet Protocol or SIP Trunking which is a method of connecting your business phone system to the internet for VoIP.
Systems connected to PSTN or ISDN, including your main phone lines, fax machines, card payment terminals, and alarm systems, will cease to function once the network is shut down so it’s important to prepare by acting now.
Businesses that don’t act risk losing access to vital communication tools, missed customer calls, reduced productivity, and unplanned downtime.
What Is the ‘Stop Sell’ and Why Does It Matter?
From September 2023, a nationwide “stop sell” came into effect, meaning businesses can no longer purchase or modify PSTN or ISDN services.
The Stop Sell is a crucial milestone in the PSTN withdrawal process. Since September 2023, BT Openreach has prohibited the sale of any new PSTN or ISDN services. This includes:
What’s Next for Your Businesses?
If your business still relies on landline technology, you’re at risk of:
The PSTN switch off affects not just voice services but broadband too—especially if you’re using ADSL or FTTC, both of which rely on copper lines.
We recommend switching to VoIP and fibre broadband solutions such as SoGEA or FTTP, ensuring your business stays connected, competitive, and compliant.
If your business hasn’t started its transition to digital telephony, then soon you won’t be able to modify your current setup.
RPS Telecom can help you by assessing your current infrastructure and provide a future-ready solution today.
RPS Telecom offers feature-rich, purpose built, VoIP solutions that suit your every business need. From cloud-based mobility to effortless scaling as your business grows. Here are some benefits your business will experience by make the switch to VoIP today:
Forget expensive handsets. Our cloud-based VoIP solution can run on your existing desktop, laptop, or smartphone—perfect for remote or hybrid teams.
Connect your phone system with your CRM to log calls, track interactions, and boost customer service—all from one dashboard.
Your business doesn’t stop at the office. With our VoIP solution, your team can make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
Add users, extensions, or new features instantly as your business grows—no waiting for new line installations or technician visits
Monitor call volumes, staff activity, and customer response times to make smarter business decisions.
Link multiple offices, home workers, or teams with one seamless phone system. Transfer calls, check availability, and collaborate across locations with ease.
With over 20 years’ telecom experience, we offer UK-based support, dedicated account management, and tailored packages to fit your needs — all backed by a seamless migration process that keeps your business running without disruption.
Yes. With the switch-off of PSTN and ISDN, traditional landlines will no longer work. This includes phone systems used in offices, lift lines, payment terminals, and alarm systems that rely on analogue connections.
If your current phone only works on the PSTN network, you will need a new phone compatible with digital or VoIP services after the switch-off.
A business PSTN service is a traditional phone line service that uses the Public Switched Telephone Network for voice calls in business settings.
Yes, in most cases you can keep your existing phone number when moving from PSTN to a digital or VoIP service.
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