Landlines & ISDN
Business telephone numbers, ISDN circuits and older phone systems.
THE UK'S MOVE TO DIGITAL PHONE LINES
Is your business ready for 31 January 2027?
BT/Openreach's traditional PSTN phone network is being retired. If you still use analogue lines or ISDN, make a plan to move before the deadline.
Talk about switchingWHAT'S CHANGING
The old network is closing.
Traditional telephone services delivered over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) are being replaced by modern digital services. The published UK deadline is 31 January 2027.
That does not mean every copper cable will physically disappear on that date. The key change is the retirement of the legacy analogue phone network and services that depend on it.
If you haven't moved, some services may stop working or be placed on a temporary, limited emergency service. Don't rely on that as your migration plan.
CHECK YOUR PREMISES
It's not just your desk phone.
Some devices still depend on traditional phone lines. Check these before arranging the move.
Alarm systems
Security, fire, lift alarms and monitored equipment that dial out.
Payment equipment
Older card terminals and other devices using analogue connections.
Broadband dependencies
Connections or services that still rely on legacy telephone-line products.
HOW 2FT. CAN HELP
Move with a plan, not a panic.
We can discuss your existing phone setup, help identify suitable VoIP options and guide the changeover, including number porting where available.
Speak to 2ft.01ReviewIdentify numbers, lines, equipment and dependencies.
02PrepareChoose a digital service, confirm broadband and backup power needs.
03MigratePlan testing and the number move before retiring the old service.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Things worth knowing.
Will I lose my existing business number?
Many numbers can be transferred to a new provider, subject to eligibility and a successful port. Check before cancelling your existing service.
Does VoIP need broadband?
Yes. VoIP needs a suitable internet connection and powered equipment. Ask about resilience and what happens during a power or broadband outage, including access to emergency calls.
Will my alarm or payment terminal still work?
Not necessarily. Check with the equipment manufacturer or monitoring provider and test any replacement connection before disconnecting the old line.
Does all copper broadband stop on 31 January 2027?
No. The PSTN closure is not the same as removing every copper-based broadband connection. However, some legacy services may require migration; ask your current provider to check.
Official information: Openreach PSTN switch-off · UK Government digital landlines guidance
Don't leave it until the deadline.
We'll help you understand your options for a modern business phone system.
Plan your move