The big switch-off
The old phone network is being switched off
Openreach is retiring the UK's traditional analogue phone network — the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and ISDN — by the end of January 2027. Every business still using old-style phone lines will need to move to a digital, internet-based system before then.
It affects more than just phones. Anything that relies on an analogue line can stop working at switch-off — alarm systems, door entry, card machines, lift emergency phones, fax and some broadband. You can already no longer buy new analogue lines (the "stop-sell" has happened), so the time to plan is now, not in 2027.
Timeline
What's happening, and when
What it means for you
What could stop working
Desk phones & ISDN
Traditional handsets and ISDN30/ISDN2 lines will no longer work and must move to VoIP.
Alarms & door entry
Intruder and fire alarms, door entry and CCTV links on analogue lines need checking and, often, upgrading.
Card machines & faxes
PDQ/card terminals and fax lines that use analogue need a digital alternative.
Lifts & emergency lines
Lift emergency phones and other safety lines are a legal must — these need an early, planned fix.
Broadband
Older broadband (ADSL/old-style) is affected too; most moves to a modern fibre service.
Lead time
Number porting and new installs take time — leaving it late risks disruption and rushed decisions.
The good news
Moving to VoIP is usually an upgrade
Keep your numbers
In almost all cases we port your existing numbers across, so customers notice nothing.
Lower call costs
VoIP is typically cheaper than old line rental and call charges, and scales up or down easily.
Work anywhere
Take calls on a desk phone, computer or mobile app — office, home or on the move.
Smarter features
Call routing, voicemail-to-email, IVR menus, opening-hours rules and more, included as standard.
How we help
A calm, planned switch — done for you
1. Audit
We check every line and anything that depends on one — phones, alarms, lifts, card machines, broadband.
2. Plan
A clear migration plan and quote, scheduled around your business so there's no downtime.
3. Migrate
We set up your VoIP system, port your numbers and swap any line-dependent kit, then support it all afterwards.
FAQs
Common questions
When exactly is the PSTN switch-off?
The PSTN and ISDN networks are being switched off by the end of January 2027. You can already no longer buy new analogue lines, so migrating sooner avoids a last-minute rush.
Will I lose my phone number?
No. In almost all cases we port your existing numbers to the new VoIP system, so you keep the same numbers your customers already know.
I only have a couple of lines — does this still affect me?
Yes. Any business using analogue lines is affected, however small. The good news is that smaller setups are quick and inexpensive to move to VoIP.
What about my alarm, lift phone or card machine?
Anything that relies on an analogue line needs checking — alarms, door entry, lift emergency phones and some card machines. We audit these as part of your switch and arrange digital alternatives where needed.
Do I need new broadband too?
Often yes — older broadband is affected by the switch-off, and VoIP works best on a modern fibre connection. We'll check what you have and recommend the right option.
Beat the 2027 switch-off deadline
Book a free, no-obligation phone-line review and we'll tell you exactly what needs to change — and what it'll cost.