Well, it’s the end of an era. Today we’re discussing the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which is finally being retired in 2025. Forgive us if we get a little sentimental; the PSTN, or ‘old reliable’ as we sometimes call it, has been with us throughout our entire telecoms journey. And now we must prepare to say our goodbyes!
Ultimately, however, this change is for the best. Let’s break down what exactly will be happening to the PSTN, and what it means for your business.
The PSTN Switch Off: A new era dawns
The PSTN, a stalwart of communication for decades, is making way for a more robust and efficient network—fibre. As traditional PSTN lines become obsolete, businesses across the UK must adapt to fully digital services utilising Internet Protocol (IP) across fibre-based networks. With Openreach leading the charge in upgrading local exchanges, the time to transition is now.
Understanding the ‘stop sell’
Come December 2025, the curtains will close on the PSTN, marking the end of an era. But even sooner, by September 2023, the UK will witness a ‘stop sell’ on traditional phone lines and fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) broadband. This means businesses must upgrade to digital networks and bid adieu to legacy systems. It’s not just telephony; everything from broadband connections to equipment reliant on PSTN networks will need an upgrade.
Why Bid Farewell to the PSTN?
Why oh why must we say goodbye? Quite simply because the PSTN, born in the late 1800s, is showing its age. With copper cables proving increasingly fragile and costly to maintain, the need for a more resilient and future-proof solution is evident. Enter full-fibre connectivity, designed to meet the demands of modern communication. As the world embraces mobile and internet-based communication, the PSTN no longer fits the bill.
Preparing for the Future
With the clock ticking, businesses must ensure they’re prepared for the PSTN switch-off. Approximately 2.4 million businesses in the UK still rely on legacy PSTN-based services, making it crucial to act swiftly. Embracing IP telephony solutions and fibre-based broadband is the way forward, ensuring seamless communication and future-proofing your business.
Don’t fear the reaper
As we grieve the loss of the PSTN, we can also see it as an opportunity to improve the ways in which we communicate. With more modern telecoms, you can enjoy a suite of flexible, cost-effective and rapid communication tools.
At Telephone Technology, we’re committed to guiding your business through this transition. For VolP solutions to full-fibre broadband, we’re here to ensure your business stays connected no matter how quickly the world evolves. For more information and a free quote, give us a bell on the old dog and bone!
