The UK’s traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and ISDN lines are being retired. Openreach has confirmed that the final switch-off will happen on 31 January 2027. After this date, all analogue phone services will cease to work.
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this change isn’t just technical housekeeping — it has a direct impact on how you communicate with clients, run operations, and protect business continuity. The good news is that by acting early, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity.
What the Switch-Off Means for SMEs
If your business still uses traditional phone lines, you need to migrate to all-digital services like Digital Voice (VoIP) before the deadline. Waiting too long risks disruption and higher costs.
SMEs often face three key challenges when planning this migration:
- Business Continuity – Will our phones still work during the transition? What about alarms, payment terminals, or door entry systems that rely on landlines?
- Costs and Budgets – How much will this upgrade cost, and will it really save us money in the long run?
- Future-Proofing – How do we ensure the new system grows with the business and doesn’t need replacing again in a few years?
Why Switch to Digital Voice Now
Migrating early to Digital Voice addresses these concerns head-on:
- ✅ Reliability & Continuity – Digital Voice runs over broadband, so with the right setup (backup power, 4G failover), you’ll maintain service even during disruptions.
- ✅ Lower Costs – Monthly fees are typically lower than ISDN, and bundled calls or per-user pricing make costs predictable.
- ✅ Flexibility – Staff can take calls on laptops, mobiles, or desk phones, supporting remote and hybrid work.
- ✅ Integration – Connect calls directly into CRMs, collaboration tools, or Microsoft Teams.
- ✅ Scalability – Adding users is as simple as changing a subscription — no engineers required.
How Bletchley Networks Supports Your Migration
At Bletchley Networks, we specialise in helping North East SMEs move smoothly from PSTN to Digital Voice. Here’s how we take the hassle out of the transition:
- 🔍 Full Service Audit – We review your existing phone lines and any connected services (e.g. alarms, lifts, card machines) to ensure nothing gets missed.
- ⚙️ Tailored Digital Voice Solutions – Whether you’re a 5-person consultancy or a 200-seat call centre, we design packages that fit your needs and budget.
- 🤝 Local, Hands-On Support – Our Newcastle-based team is available before, during, and after migration — no long call centre waits, just real people who know your business.
- 🔒 Business Continuity Built-In – From backup units for power cuts to mobile failover, we ensure your business stays connected when it matters most.
- 📈 Future-Proof Technology – We only deploy solutions that scale with your growth, keeping your communications competitive for years to come.
Why Waiting Isn’t Worth the Risk
Yes, the final deadline has been extended to 2027 — but major providers still plan to migrate businesses by the end of 2025. Delaying could mean:
- Scrambling for engineers at the last minute
- Higher costs as old services are withdrawn
- Risking downtime if you’re forced to switch suddenly
Migrating now ensures a controlled, predictable transition — on your terms, not under pressure.
Take the Next Step
Your phones are too important to leave until the last minute. By partnering with Bletchley Networks, you’ll get expert guidance, a seamless migration plan, and ongoing local support to keep your business connected.
Future-proof your business communications — start your switch to Digital Voice now.