Last updated: August 2025
From January 2027, landlines and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be permanently switched off, affecting telephony in both business and domestic settings.
PSTN will be replaced with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, where calls are made via the internet rather than through copper wires and traditional switchboards.
First introduced in the 19th century, PSTN has become costly and complex to maintain. The move to VoIP is part of a wider push to modernise telephone communications and integrate them with today’s digital technologies.
Rather than waiting for the deadline, we recommend using our checklist now to prepare early and adapt smoothly to the changing landscape.
1. Check your devices
While telephones are the most obvious focus of the PSTN switch-off, they are not the only systems that will be affected. Many other services within your business also rely on the landline network and will need attention.
These include, but are not limited to:
- Lift emergency lines
- Cash machines
- Payment terminals
- Panic alarms
- Door entry systems
- CCTV
- Building/intruder alarms
It’s essential to identify every device connected to PSTN so you can plan upgrades in advance. This ensures all critical systems remain operational and your team has sufficient time to adapt to the new technology.
Some of the systems above can be switched to IP mode and run over the VoIP network, but others will require specific upgrades. Your specialist service providers can confirm the best approach for each.
2. Review your connectivity
Once your devices are accounted for, the next step is to review your internet connection. It must be strong enough to handle high-quality voice calls and HD video conferencing without interruption.
Overlooking connectivity can lead to issues such as buffering during video calls or delays in audio, both of which can reflect negatively on your business and your ability to operate online.
If your current connection isn’t delivering the performance you need, consider:
- Investing in a second, dedicated line for telephony, which also serves as a backup if your main connection fails
- Switching to a provider with stronger, more reliable coverage
Both options will strengthen your operational performance when moving to VoIP and demonstrate a proactive approach to connectivity, resilience, and futureproofing your business.
3. Think about your hardware
The next step is to evaluate how you currently use your hardware and decide whether to maintain your existing setup or transition to a fully digital solution.
For example, if your workplace still depends on traditional desk phones, you might choose to keep these devices while upgrading your handsets to VoIP systems using adapters.
That said, in today’s digital world, phone calls can be made seamlessly via tablets, laptops, PCs, and mobile phones, significantly reducing the need for conventional hardware.
Adopting softphones brings greater flexibility and mobility, empowering your team to work from anywhere while cutting costs on hardware replacement.
Take a moment to assess your current system and consider whether switching to a digital communication solution could streamline and improve your everyday business communications.
4. Choose a solution
Now that you’ve reviewed your devices, hardware, and connectivity, the next step is to choose a solution that best fits your business needs.
As with any new technology, there is a wide range of options from various providers. The key is to review them carefully, considering how your telephony currently operates and how it needs to perform in the future.
A good starting point is to determine how many employees will use the system, identify the additional features required to keep operations running efficiently, and then weigh up the pros and cons of each option.
5. Involve your employees
Once your solution is in place and your business is set up on VoIP systems, arranging training as early as possible is essential.
Employee engagement is key. The more invested your team is in the system, the smoother the transition will be. While making a phone system sound exciting might seem like a challenge, the point of modern technology is simple: to make daily operations easier and more efficient.
Showcasing the benefits of VoIP will help spark interest, but understanding your team’s current frustrations is just as important. If your new telephony system can resolve these issues, you’ll have their attention.
Your new system will likely come with features such as call redirects, customised greetings, and automated menus. These can deliver real value, but only if your team knows how to use them effectively.
Well-planned training ensures your employees can make the most of every feature, helping you achieve seamless, reliable communication across your business.
6. Embrace the change
Change can feel unnecessary, especially when your current systems work just fine.
However, it’s important for you and your team to view the PSTN switch-off as an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Digital transformation is now a top priority for many businesses, and moving to modern systems opens the door to greater innovation.
By 2027, landline and PSTN services will no longer be available, so it makes sense to familiarise yourself with your new solution sooner rather than later.
VoIP systems not only offer lower costs but also deliver a level of flexibility that traditional switchboards cannot match. This is one of the biggest advantages of the switch-off, as organisations worldwide move towards more digital and remote ways of working across every sector.
How Net-Defence can help
Preparing for the 2027 switch-off will ensure you’re not caught off guard in the months leading up to it. Planning ahead gives you the space to choose the best solution for your business and keep operations running smoothly throughout the transition.
At Net-Defence, we’re with you every step of the way. Our experienced team will assess your current infrastructure, recommend the right technology options, and manage the entire transition process to minimise downtime.
From initial consultation to implementation and ongoing support, we deliver expert guidance and hands-on assistance to make your move to digital communications smooth and stress-free.
If you’d like to start assessing your telephony needs ahead of 2027, or see a demonstration of the solutions we can offer, get in touch with our team today.
