PSTN Switch-Off 2027
What UK Businesses Need to Do
Before 31st January
Every business still running a traditional phone line must migrate before the switch-off date, or lose service entirely. Find out what it means, what stops working, and how to keep your number.
What is Happening?
- The Old Network Dies: The old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using copper wires is old, costly to run, and breaking down.
- Moving to Digital: Landlines are shifting to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), also called Digital Voice.
- How it Works: Your telephone handset will plug directly into your broadband router instead of a wall socket.
The nationwide deadline set by telecom providers and the UK Government Guidance is the end of January 2027.Your Number:
You keep your existing phone number.
No Loss of Service: Landlines are not ending; they are just changing how they carry signals. Providers also offer landline-only options if you do not want broadband.
Power Cuts: Digital landlines need electricity and internet. If the power or internet goes down, your phone will stop working unless you have a battery backup.
[1]Special Devices: Telecare alarms, fall detectors, CCTV, and door entry systems that use old analogue lines might stop working unless upgraded. Check compatibility with your provider.
Action Required: Contact your Ofcom Advice Page or your specific phone provider (such as BT Digital Switchover) to see when your area is scheduled and what equipment you need.
To help you prepare, let me know:
- Who is your current landline or broadband provider?
- Do you use any telecare alarms or security systems plugged into the phone socket?
Switching off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) across the UK
On 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital – so it’s important to switch now.
Why the PSTN is being switched off
The old landline network is ageing, harder to maintain, more vulnerable to faults and no longer meets modern needs. More services now rely on digital connections, so the UK needs a phone system that can support modern homes and businesses. Moving to digital phone lines will help provide you with a more reliable service, better-quality calls and smarter blocking of unwanted calls.
What you need to do now
Don’t wait until the deadline, On 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital.
Call your service provider as soon as possible. They’ll explain what needs to happen, help you choose the right digital option and support you through the switch.
Why acting today matters:
- You’ll have more time to get everything up and running.
- You can check any devices connected to your phone line, such as alarms, health pendants, house alarms, CCTV or payment terminals for compatibility, avoiding any last-minute issues before the deadline.
- If you leave it too late, you risk losing service.
If your service provider has contacted you about switching, don’t ignore it. Transitioning now gives you more time to ask questions and avoid any last-minute issues.