You may not be aware, but landline phones are being replaced by digital. We’re here to explain what you need to know about the PSTN switch off and how to get ready for it.
How does broadband work without a phone line?
Full fibre is cabled broadband that does not require a phone line as it uses fibre optic cables to transmit data, rather than the copper wires used for traditional broadband.
Full fibre is now the recommended option for those who pay for line rental but barely use the phone, if at all. When searching for your next provider, the type of internet provider or internet package you’ll want depends on your individual needs and preferences. But it’s worth bearing in mind that by the end of 2025, all landlines should have been switched over to digital voice services, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), as the PSTN switch off concludes.
What is the PSTN switch off?
The Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) switch off is on track to conclude in 2025. This means every UK landline will be moved to a fully digital network that uses Voice over Internet Protocol technology (VoIP).
The purpose of the switch to VoIP is that modern day technology is much more demanding. As technology innovates, internet service providers across the world are switching from analogue to digital.
If you have FTTC (fibre-to-the-cabinet) and not FTTP (fibre-to-the-premises), it’s still advised to switch to full fibre if you have the opportunity, as you will receive benefits which may include more consistent speeds, lower latency, and a connection that offers additional security.
What is VoIP and how does it work?
VoIP systems should have replaced all landlines by the end of 2025. VoIP is a type of phone system that uses an internet connection to make and receive calls. VoIP works by using broadband rather than traditional copper phone lines.
VoIP takes analogue voice signals, converts them to digital signals, and then sends them as data via broadband. It is a fast and flexible solution for the future. Examples of VoIP that are currently used on a wide scale include WhatsApp, Skype and Facebook Messenger. These popular messaging services use VoIP for calls.
A VoIP phone provides the same fundamental service as a landline phone by enabling you to make, receive, and handle phone calls. However, VoIP phones offer greater functionality and lower costs compared to regular phones. As VoIP phones don’t need the same infrastructure as traditional phone systems, they’re generally less expensive than landlines.
How will the PSTN switch off affect me?
The majority of internet service providers will be providing VoIP to all of their customers, residential and business. Bear in mind, the move to a fully digital network won’t only affect phones but also alarms, door entry systems and CCTV systems.
This is why you may want to start planning for the PSTN switch off today, as it may not just be your phone that is connected to a landline. As mentioned above, if you currently have FTTC or traditional broadband, your internet will not be affected by the switch off, as the copper lines which run from your home will be kept live until you have a new full fibre service, even after the switch off date. It’s still advised switching to full fibre sooner rather than later to accommodate internet demands and new applications that require even higher speeds.
Yet it is worth considering switching to full fibre as soon as you can, as VoIP systems offer more features and functionality than traditional landlines, so you’ll get more value for your money. Full fibre also offers low latency and high bandwidth, so your voice calls will be clearer with less lag. The sooner you switch, the more time and money you may save.
Can I cancel my landline and still have internet?
Yes, you certainly can, but you will need to have switched to a full fibre internet service provider. Cancelling your landline rental is different from deciding not to have a landline handset plugged in at your home.
At LilaConnect, we recommend switching to digital phone lines when you can, due to the many benefits including time-saving, flexibility and lower costs. A costly landline deal that’s not required could be an incentive to switch to a new full fibre provider like LilaConnect.
Find out how LilaConnect can help you future-proof your home by contacting one of our customer service representatives today. They’ll be happy to talk you through the PSTN switch off, VoIP and help you decipher which IoTs (Internet of Things) will need upgrading to digital.
