What the PSTN Switch-off Delay Means For Your Business

Why the PSTN Switch Off Delay Shouldn’t Delay You from Switching to Digital

Openreach have announced a delay in the switch-off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which was initially set to be completed by 2025, will now be completed in January 2027. Here’s everything you need to know about the delay and how it will affect your business.  

 

When is the New PSTN Switch Off Date?

Initially, Openreach provided the deadline of December 2025 for the completion of the PSTN Switch-Off. In May 2024, they announced that a delay will move this deadline to the 31st January 2027.

The switch-off of this traditional analogue system is set to be the biggest transition in the communication industry for decades. The recently announced delay may appear to give you more time to switch over to digital communication alternatives, however businesses are being urged to prepare for this change sooner rather than later.

 

Why Should I Switch to Internet-Based Communications Now?

Despite Openreach announcing plans for the PSTN Switch-Off in 2017, many businesses around the UK are still unprepared for this change. Many companies are still relying on the old PSTN infrastructure, which isn’t only responsible for telephony, but also facilities, such as alarms, CCTV, lifts and payment terminals. In addition, traditional internet connectivity solutions, such as ADSL broadband, also rely on this network and will need to be switched over to a full-fibre alternative. Businesses who haven’t already made the switch may be tempted to postpone due to the delay. However, the later that this change is implemented, the more complicated and costly the process will be.

The transition to internet-based solutions is complex and time consuming, involving understanding which systems need updates, ensuring robust internet connectivity and selecting reliable VoIP vendors, as well as assessing current technologies, planning the migration strategy and implementing new systems, whilst ensuring minimal disruption to operations. There are a lot of facets to consider. Many businesses will see this delay as an opportunity to postpone moving to internet-based, digital communication solutions until the last minute, which means there will be a large number of businesses looking to switch at the same time, causing a bottleneck of orders and implementations of new systems, resulting in long waits. Furthermore, delaying investment in internet-based solutions could potentially result in higher costs.

Starting the process to switch over to internet-based alternative solutions now, means your business has more time to manage this significant change more effectively and avoid potential pitfalls and costs associated with last-minute transitions.

Speaking on the PSTN Switch-Off delay our Head of Product, Paul Elmore, advised:

“While we welcome the extended deadline, which allows businesses more time to fully transition to digital services and the industry to tackle any obstacles, it is crucial that we maintain momentum in the migration process. If we do not, we risk finding ourselves in the same situation in 12 months; a scenario the entire industry is eager to avoid.”

 

Seamlessly Switch with Specialist Support from Elite Group

Still relying on outdated, PSTN-reliant communication or connectivity solutions? Beat the rush and switch over to modern, efficient and cost-effective alternative solutions with specialist support. Our experts will take the time to get to know your business and its needs before finding the best solution for your job and seamlessly transition your operations from your outdated system to your new solution to minimise disruption.

We’re ready when you are – call our specialists today on 0344 875 8880 or fill in our contact form.