The Big ISDN Switch Off 2025. What does it mean for you?
October 23, 2023
Basically the ISDN (Integrated Digital Services Network) and Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) we've all known for as many years as we care to remember (150 years to be exact) is due to end. In other words the, 'plug in the wall' set up we are used to is to become obsolete. That's right, all old technology is ceasing to be as BT phases it out - for good! That means analogue phone lines (the ISDN network) will be no more.
The reason behind this change is a combination of reasons which include: the need for clearer and thankfully cheaper calls across a robust and reliable infrastructure. What's more, this doesn't just lend itself to the UK's infrastructure, digital lines are set to be a truly global solution.
Despite some slight improvement, ISDN telephone lines have remained relatively unchanged since they were established - and as innovation changes, that just won't do (not if progression is to happen). As we wave goodbye to copper-based systems, homes and businesses alike should be preparing to future proof themselves, saying goodbye to traditional landline phones as the world goes cloud based.
So, here are some stats which may surprise you about the traditional phone system set up...
Original phone lines were set up in the 1800s; yet despite the passage of time not a massive amount of technical advancement has been made. The main change has been however the average decline of ISDN by 30% within the past 5 years. Along with high maintenance and more expensive running costs, ISDN is slowly becoming archaic.
When is this big switch off due to happen exactly?
The date is actually fast approaching; coming into play by 2025. In fact, business owners won't be able to even obtain PSTN or ISDN (landlines) after September 2023.
If you haven't already heard, the new internet telephony is known primarily as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). This quite simply allows calls to be made over an internet connection - that can be via a computer or mobile device. All in all, VoIP equals cheaper calls and as broadband services have vastly improved they are now excellent quality too. What's more, no fixed line, means no fixed location - providing greater freedom and flexibility; ideal in today's world of hybrid, remote working.
You'll probably be glad to hear that there are a couple of choices available to you as you move away from antiquated analog lines to advanced internet protocol.
Find out about at the two main options:
Ok, in a nutshell, this is a complete cloud-based set up which is hosted off-site. It usually includes desk phones which simply connect to your Local Area Network (WAN). You will find that your telecom provider is responsible for your technology's maintenance and service - all in return for a monthly fee of course. Rest assured, the initial set-up and equipment costs aren't expensive, especially when compared to other on-premises systems and upgrades. Many VoIP solutions simply require you to instal an app onto your mobile and away you go - it really is that easy.
With this option, hardware and software are required to make telephone calls and to run the platform. Obviously this equipment has to be installed and housed somewhere on your site. Although this can mean you paying a slightly higher initial set up expense, it usually equals lower monthly expenses in the longer term - that's got to be good news right! It is important to note however that you will have to take care of maintenance costs. Having said that, given VoIP phone systems are mostly app based or simple plug and play, maintenance expenses should typically be few and far between.
Whether you're familiar with VoIP or just getting used to the idea of upgrading, the benefits are clear to see, as follows:
You may have heard that the quality of VoIP calls isn't the best. Nonsense! That might have been the case in the early days but broadband internet connection speeds and improved configuration mean that nowadays the sound quality and reliability of phone calls is typically even better than ISDN.
Do you need specialist equipment to achieve the best quality calls?
Not at all...You simply need, at least 100kb upstream for each phone. So, you don't have to have a ridiculously high speed internet connection, an adequate service will be fine.
Not preparing for the approaching telephony changes could mean you may find your business ends up without a communication system. Doesn't bare thinking about does it? The end of the ISDN line could actually bring the end of your comms. But don't worry, making sure that you have systems in place isn't too hard to do.
Let's make life easy with a preparation checklist for your business:
If making the change to your new VoIP service seems daunting, don't worry, here at NS2 we can put you in touch with the right people, at the right price.
With no need to invest in extra equipment, upgrading from ISDN to VoIP telephony may be much cheaper than you'd expect.
Why not call 0330 332 0400 or click for details?
Posted by
Lynn
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