The PSTN Switch-Off: What UK Businesses Need to Do Before 2027
The PSTN switch-off means UK businesses using traditional analogue phone lines and connected devices must move to suitable digital services. Government guidance says users of the Openreach PSTN must migrate by 31 January 2027. Check phones, alarms, payment terminals, lifts and broadband dependencies now. Plan the replacement and test resilience before your current service ends.
Key takeaways
- UK government guidance states that all users of the Openreach PSTN need to migrate by 31 January 2027.
- The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the older network used for traditional analogue telephone services.
- The impact extends beyond desk phones.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) carries calls over an IP network.
When is the PSTN switch-off deadline?
UK government guidance states that all users of the Openreach PSTN need to migrate by 31 January 2027. Other networks and providers may have different milestones. Confirm the actual retirement date for every service with its supplier rather than assuming all lines change on one day.
What is the PSTN and why is it closing?
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the older network used for traditional analogue telephone services. Providers are replacing it with modern digital connectivity and internet-based voice. Legacy equipment is increasingly difficult to maintain.
Which business systems could stop working?
The impact extends beyond desk phones. Check alarm diallers, card terminals, fax equipment, lift emergency lines, entry systems, telecare and any broadband service linked to an old line. Speak to each equipment supplier about compatibility.
What is the difference between VoIP and cloud telephony?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) carries calls over an IP network. Cloud telephony generally adds hosted call routing, user management and features such as mobile and desktop apps. A simple digital voice migration and a wider phone-system replacement are not always the same project.
Will phones work during a power or internet outage?
Not automatically. Digital voice may depend on local power, routers and connectivity. Plan backup power, mobile failover and alternative emergency calling arrangements where needed. Test the setup with the provider and pay special attention to safety-critical devices.
Free tool: run the Business telecoms savings check to see what switching could cost and save.
How should a small business prepare?
Inventory every line and attached device, contact providers, check broadband capacity and reliability, agree the target service and schedule testing. Keep written records of alarm and payment terminal sign-off. Allow time for number porting and staff training.
Can you keep your existing telephone number?
Often, numbers can be transferred, but availability and process depend on the provider and service. Confirm portability before cancelling the old line. Schedule migration to avoid losing inbound calls.
What should you ask a telecoms supplier?
Ask about call quality, number transfer, broadband dependency, business continuity, emergency calls, contract terms, security and support. Compare total costs rather than just the monthly per-user headline.
What should you do next?
If you are unsure where your current setup stands, Be Tech Secure can help you identify priorities and explain practical next steps. Request a free security risk review or book a short discussion.
Frequently asked questions
Is the PSTN switch-off still scheduled for January 2027?
Yes. UK government guidance checked in October 2026 identifies 31 January 2027 as the Openreach PSTN migration deadline. Ask your provider about your own lines and any earlier milestones. Businesses with alarms, lifts or payment terminals should verify those devices separately.
Can we do this without an in-house IT team?
Yes. A small business can assign internal ownership while using an external provider for technical changes and monitoring. The key is to agree who approves access, who receives alerts and who responds to incidents. Do not assume those responsibilities are included in a support contract.
How often should we review our arrangements?
Review important accounts and alerts routinely, and schedule a wider review at least every six months. Reassess sooner after a significant staffing, supplier, licence or system change. Record what was checked, what was fixed and which risks remain open.
Will one product solve the problem?
No single product covers people, processes, devices, email, identity and recovery. Choose a combination of controls that fits your actual risks. Ask vendors to explain what they do not cover, how incidents are handled and which tasks remain your responsibility.
