Legacy Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN) built on copper-based analogue lines are set to be switched off by December 2025, while 88% of UK businesses still rely on PTSN for services like phone lines, broadband, alarm systems and CCTV cameras.  

The ramifications of this move were felt in a meeting in the House of Commons on Tuesday, as the debate brought up concerns over the reliability of digital replacements and issues ranging from battery backup to the complexity of the new setup.

Both BT and Openreach are undergoing a comprehensive upgrade of their analogue services to a fully digital (IP-based) network. The transition involves the withdrawal of old Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) products by Openreach and the retirement of Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by BT simultaneously. 

Meanwhile, according to a report from business broadband internet service provider Gamma, along with the Centre of Economics Business Research, 29% of the 400 UK businesses it surveyed are completely unaware of the upcoming move. 

This number rises to 54% for businesses that are directly impacted. Three in four businesses have also yet to complete migration tasks, and just under half haven’t even started researching a migration plan. 

“To ensure a smooth transition following the Switch-Off, businesses need to act now and explore alternative digital communications available to them. This way businesses can understand the benefits that come with switching to modern solutions, such as a positive impact on the business’ bottom line as well as increased flexibility and scalability,” said Chris Wade, chief marketing and product officer at Gamma, according to ISPreview. 

“By doing so, businesses can make sure they don’t make a rash decision – instead, find the right solution for their business needs.”

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The shift to Internet Protocol (IP)-based digital phone solutions, while modernising, presents challenges. The new services lack remote power during outages and may not seamlessly integrate with older alarm or telecare monitoring systems. 

However, it is not economically viable for operators to retail both networks side-by-side, particularly in coming years as old network usage is expected to fall very low. 

The move comes on the backdrop of the UK revealing Scotland’s share of the £5 billion Project Gigabit broadband rollout scheme, which will be an estimated £450 million. At the moment, almost 74% of premises in Scotland can access gigabit-capable broadband and with Project Gigabit, Ofcom predicts Scotland’s full fibre coverage could reach up to 85% coverage by Spring 2026.