One of the biggest changes to business connectivity in a generation is already under way, and many companies are unaware of it. The old analogue phone network — the copper-based PSTN — is being switched off, and anything that runs over it needs to move to digital before the deadline. Here is what the switch-off means for your business and what to do about it.
What is the PSTN switch-off?
PSTN stands for the Public Switched Telephone Network — the traditional analogue phone system that has carried calls, and a lot of older broadband, over copper lines for decades. It is being retired and replaced by digital, all-IP connections that run over the internet. Openreach is targeting January 2027 to complete the switch-off, and the sale of new analogue lines has already stopped.
Why it matters more for businesses
It is not just your desk phone. A surprising amount of business equipment still relies on an old copper line, including:
- Phone systems and analogue handsets
- Some older broadband connections
- Card payment terminals
- Alarm and CCTV lines
- Door entry systems and lift emergency phones
If any of these run over a traditional line, they will need to move to a digital alternative before the switch-off, or they will stop working.
What you should do
- Check what runs over your copper lines. Make a list of anything connected to a phone line — not just phones, but alarms, card terminals and lifts.
- Plan the move to full-fibre or a digital line. Most businesses will move to a full-fibre (FTTP) connection with digital voice. It is worth doing sooner rather than in a last-minute rush.
- Review it alongside your other utilities. A connectivity upgrade is a natural moment to check you are on the right business broadband deal too.
The switch-off is not something to fear, but it is not something to ignore either. Businesses that plan ahead move over smoothly; those that leave it late risk disruption to phones, payments and alarms.
How Win Energy helps
We compare business broadband, including full-fibre and digital voice options, across UK providers — so if the switch-off means it is time to upgrade, we can help you move to the right connection rather than the first one you are offered. And you can review it alongside your gas, electricity, water and waste in one place.
Unsure what the switch-off means for your business, or ready to move to full-fibre? Call 0845 862 1947 or get in touch for a straightforward comparison — free and with no obligation.
The copper switch-off is coming, and it affects far more than the office phone. Check what you have on old lines, plan your move to full-fibre in good time, and you will turn a looming deadline into a simple, well-timed upgrade.