The telecoms industry has been working on improving the efficiency and reliability of telecoms in recent times and the next step is switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). The copper cable telephone network has been used since 1876 and limitations have been met. To further improve the capabilities of our communications, a switch to VoIP will take place, meaning all comms will go through the internet.
What is PSTN?
PSTN has been the typical platform for communications for as long as you can remember, well into the 1800s. Using copper cabling to transfer telecoms originally worked perfectly. There wasn’t a need to handle such high requirements other than supporting standard calls. However, since then, many things use PSTN lines; alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV and more. Changes are needed to comfortably manage the 21st century requirements.
What is VoIP?
VoIP allows for communication to be transferred through digital formats rather than physical cabling. Doing so highly improves the speed and connection as the data is compressed during its online travels. Compressing one end and unpacking the other lowers the size of the information but doesn’t cause issues in terms of quality. As it’s all digital, VoIP uses your typical broadband lines such as fiber optic. It bypasses your usual telephone company and is handled by your internet provider.
- Your mobile or landline connects to your internet (Local Area Network or LAN).
- Your IP phone then connects to your VoIP provider to call the other party.
- Your provider establishes the connection and exchanges data packets from your IP phone.
- The signals are then converted into sound so you can hear the other party.
The switch to VoIP in 2027
As of May 2024, the official ‘PSTN Switch Off’ is now scheduled for the 31st January 2027. You may be wondering why the subject is being covered so soon. This is because some buildings may need a large amount of work to fully switch to VoIP. The original copper lines may be overhead or buried beneath your feet. When switching, there’s no need to get your old lines removed. Once the switch happens, ensuring you’re signed up to a VoIP compatible broadband contract will make sure your communications won’t be compromised.
Benefits of the PSTN Switch Off
The PSTN Switch Off takes communication and efficiency to the next level. By switching over to VoIP, there are many benefits that can stem past the communication reasons and far into the efficiency of business operations. By switching from copper cables to a stable internet connection, benefits are:
Cost savings
Typically, broadband systems cost a lot less for business owners. This is because higher speeds are being standardised, and broadband naturally covers more areas across the UK to improve efficiency. The speeds you can achieve, and the many areas broadband now covers, can highly improve efficiency.
Clarity
Due to the speeds and capabilities of a broadband connection, clarity of calls is taken to the next level. Continued development into VoIP ensures the systems are improved regularly and speeds will heighten.
Integration
Integration is key now days, after a world obsessed with Zoom and Microsoft Teams, integrating calling software is the bare minimum we expect for our businesses. This will ultimately reduce costs on handsets and reduce time between calls.
Actions you need to take
You may be wondering about the next steps you need to take to ensure your communications aren’t compromised. You’ve got till the 31st January 2027, however in some cases, premises may need some additional work to get you up and running with VoIP. For example, you may be operating using copper cables currently. Providers are currently working on installing full fibre to all locations across the UK meaning VoIP will be available to all when that process is complete. BT have also covered additional details surrounding the PSTN Switch Off. We recommend you look at switching to a VoIP connection, using a broadband full fibre connection, as soon as possible. Doing so will reduce any worries when the deadline rolls around, and your business will be in full operation, using new VoIP systems sooner rather than later.
A whole array of telecommunication devices will be affected and need to be transferred to VoIP – landlines and handsets. To make the switch as smooth as possible, get the latest devices with us. Our experts will be able to find the perfect solution for you and your business. We will feature more surrounding the PSTN switch off in future to ensure you’re prepared. Look at our existing content and await any future information we’ll post on our website.