The 100-day countdown begins
Openreach has announced that the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be permanently closed on 31 January 2027. This confirms that the transition from analogue to digital telephony is entering its final stage. After this date, traditional copper-based phone lines will no longer function across the United Kingdom.
Originally scheduled for a sooner retirement, the deadline was adjusted to allow more time for vulnerable users to migrate. However, Openreach has stated there will be no further extensions. Businesses that have not yet moved to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)—which carries voice calls over an internet connection rather than a telephone wire—face a complete loss of service at the end of the 100-day period.
Beyond voice calls
The switch-off does not only affect desk phones. Many business systems use the PSTN for data transmission or signalling. This includes older burglar and fire alarms, lift emergency phones, fax machines, and credit card terminals.
If these devices are not compatible with an internet-based line, they will stop working. In many cases, these devices require a small adapter or a hardware upgrade to remain functional. It is necessary to check with your equipment providers to confirm if your current hardware is digital-ready.
Broadband changes
The retirement of the PSTN also affects broadband services delivered via ADSL or FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), as these rely on the analogue dial tone. These services are being replaced by SOGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) or full-fibre connections, which do not require a traditional phone line to operate.
Recommended actions
If your business still relies on a traditional landline, you should contact your service provider to discuss a migration plan. While the transition is a standard industry process, lead times for installing new circuits or porting existing numbers can vary. Early planning is advised to ensure that your communication and security systems remain operational through the transition period.