For some time, we have been preparing for a major transformation in telephone and broadband services with the anticipated switch off of PSTN (copper, ISDN phone lines) services, initially targeted for December 2025. This date is important as it marks a significant milestone in moving to more reliable, modern technologies. Despite recent developments that have extended this timeline, it is important to maintain focus on December 2025.
Recently, BT Group announced a change to the PSTN switch-off schedule. Due to an industry-wide pause on non-voluntary migrations in December 2023, the complete migration off the PSTN has been rescheduled to the end of January 2027. However, it is essential to recognise that this extension primarily aims to accommodate specific exceptional cases and ensure a smooth transition for vulnerable customers. For the majority, the December 2025 deadline still stands as the goal for migration, reinforcing the urgency to continue preparations.
Why the switch off is necessary and urgent
The underlying reason for phasing out PSTN and ISDN lines is their obsolescence and increasing unreliability. In 2023 alone, incidents related to the PSTN increased by 20%, accompanied by a 60% rise in customer downtime. Such statistics highlight the pressing need to move away from these outdated systems and towards more robust digital alternatives.
Impact of the extended timeline
The extension to January 2027 offers additional preparation time for those dependent on services like telecare, lift lines, alarms, and CCTV. While this extra time is beneficial, all stakeholders must seek digital alternatives as soon as possible.
Key dates and what they mean for you
The overarching strategy remains clear: we must continue to target the original December 2025 switch-off date. This timeline ensures we keep pace with the evolving broadband industry and mitigate potential disruptions. All users, especially those relying on vulnerable services, should use the extra 13 months to resolve any outstanding issues. This preparation is crucial as any copper-based services still operational beyond December 2025 will switch to new terms, including a three-month termination notice period.
The extension should not be seen as an opportunity to postpone necessary actions but rather as an allowance to ensure that no user is left behind in this transition. It is critical to assess your dependencies on analogue lines and make the necessary shifts to digital replacements well before the 2025 deadline. The advice remains unchanged: early and thorough preparation for the PSTN switch-off is essential.
Actions to take
It’s time to review which of your connections use PSTN lines and arrange to make the necessary changes.
If your broadband connection relies on PSTN lines, you should switch to a different type of connection. RM offers fibre to the Premises (FTTP), leased lines and single-order generic ethernet access (SOGEA) services; none of which use PSTN lines.
Legacy telephony systems generally rely on PSTN or ISDN lines. You can replace them with digital telephone systems that offer extended functionality using Voice over IP (VoIP) such as RM Voice.