In 2017, the telecoms industry announced that it would retire analogue telephone networks, including the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). The industry will upgrade landline services to new digital technology using an internet connection, such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Digital Voice or All-IP telephony.
What is PSTN?
The Public Switched Telephone Network operates through a series of exchanges that create dedicated lines between callers.
When you call a number on a PSTN device, your message is converted into electrical signals that travel through copper-based technology infrastructure to the other user.
This method creates a continuous, consistent connection between two points, but requires substantial physical infrastructure.
- Limited to basic features like voice calls, voicemail, and call waiting
- Location-bound to the physical installation point
- Higher operational and maintenance costs
What is VOIP?
Rather than transmitting as electrical signals through copper wires, Voice over Internet Protocol turns your message into digital data that travels over your internet connection.
With this data and technology, multiple calls can use the same connection at the same time, which is more efficient than traditional telephony.
- Offers advanced features like video calling, call routing, and CRM integration
- Calls can be made from anywhere with internet
- Lower monthly fees and cheaper to scale
Soon, every phone line in the UK will become digital, routing calls over IP (Internet Protocol) rather than the traditional PSTN. This means that any remaining services not switched to the new digital network by January 2027 will be lost.
Does your business need to do anything?
If you’re unsure whether your business has switched to a VoIP system yet, Procure Smart can help. We can assess your existing phone system and handsets, as well as equipment like fax machines, alarm systems, and lifts. We also check if you have a stable fibre broadband connection with adequate bandwidth. You will receive a report with recommendations for next steps, followed by a consultation to discuss your personalised telecoms strategy.
Our dedicated account management team will oversee the whole process and deal with any queries from suppliers.
Find out more about our hassle-free business telecoms switching service and read our team’s answers to some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions.
Simply complete the form below to speak to one of our experts on a no-obligation basis.
Don’t lose your connectivity, get smart.
