Complete Guide to the BT Switch Off

Your Complete Guide to the BT Switch Off

What is it?

Over the last few decades, our communications have run over traditional copper lines, which have been the backbone of the UK’s phone network. But technology has progressed and changed the way we communicate using things like apps, smartphones, and conference calls. Due to the high demand for modern communication methods, traditional phone lines can’t keep up, adapt, or change. Therefore, the infrastructure they’re built on needs to change to fulfil the requirements of modern-day business telephony and the way people want to communicate.

So, what is happening?

The traditional phone line (PTSN or ISDN) network will be closed in December 2025. By then, every phone line in the UK will have moved to the new VoIP Network that uses Internet Protocol (IP), whether that’s a business or a home.

What does this mean?

Any equipment that uses the traditional network will stop working such as alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV, Phones, and so on.

Why is it happening?

The current traditional network is getting old. Most lines were installed in the 19th Century and are becoming more difficult to support and cannot keep up with the demands of 21st Century technology and communication requirements. Openreach is busy rolling out the full fibre network across the UK and will stop selling traditional phone lines in all areas by September 2023.

How will it affect you and your business?

You may need a new phone system to support the change, if you do need to change your current phone system this will need to be done by 2025. While this might seem a long way off, beating the rush to switch will save you difficulty further down the line, so the sooner you change the better.

What do you need to do moving forwards?

• Review your broadband and make sure you have the best speeds.
• Review your phone system and ask your current supplier if it has
• the capability to run on the new VoIP network.
• Think about what system will work best for you. Do you want to work remotely etc?
• Do your homework to make sure you have the best solution for your business.
• Speak to a provider who can offer advice listen to your needs and
• tailor a package to suit your business needs.

How can Next help?

At Next Communications we provide bespoke communications packages that are completely tailor-made to suit the needs of your business. We don’t do out-of-box systems. We listen to what you need and understand that every business if different. We offer a free no obligation meeting and can even provide a demonstration so you can be sure the system you choose is the right choice. To help ensure the system we recommend will work seamlessly inside your business, our engineers will also complete a free site survey.

Our dedicated team of experts will also be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Rest assured you won’t be passed from pillar to post when you want to speak to us.

If Next Communications sounds like the kind of business you would like to partner with, get in touch today.