In December 2025, the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) services will be switched off. This is because they use old outdated technology which is no longer suitable for modern life. Instead, they are being replaced by modern digital services. This will affect all businesses still using traditional landlines for internet or telephone calls. It will also affect any other services that connect to PSTN or ISDN lines such as POS machines, alarms, CCTV, Fax machines etc. To avoid major disruption, businesses will need to move all their communications to new digital services before this date.
Why is this happening?
To meet the demands of the latest digital technology, Openreach is moving to a fully digital network. Over 16 million copper phone lines (servicing businesses and homes) are being fully or partially replaced with high speed fibre cables. A hard target has been set to provide 85% of UK premises with access to gigabit broadband by the end of 2025.
How will this affect your business?
If you are currently still using PSTN services (analogue phone lines) you should make plans to move to digital services as quickly as possible. Currently, many businesses utilise what is known as WLR (Wholesale Line Rental) services with a separate broadband service added on top. In many cases, the fixed phone line is only necessary in order to make the broadband service work.
Two replacement solutions are available
- FTTP – Fibre cables from the exchange to the premises
- SoGEA – Technology that works by providing connectivity over a single connection
What is SoGEA
SoGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) is a new type of service for businesses. It offers customers high speed broadband without the need for a separate phone line.
What are the benefits of SoGEA
- Cheaper than the combined cost of broadband and a separate phone line
- Easy to install
- High quality internet connectivity
- Designed to be used with Hosted VoIP Phone Systems
- Good for accessing cloud based services
- Future proofing for the full PSTN switch-off in 2025
What do I need to do next?
If these changes sound confusing and you’re not sure what steps your business needs to take, DATA can help. Our team can review your existing setup and identify which services and products will be affected by the switch off. We will then suggest the best options to ensure a future proof solution for your business and help you transition seamlessly.
If you need help moving your business to digital services please get in touch . DATA Computer Services is an experienced IT support company serving customers throughout Edinburgh, Fife and Lothian.