You may have heard about the upcoming switch-off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) as it has regularly been in the news. This significant change in the telecommunications landscape is set to take place in the coming years, with the complete shutdown of PSTN services scheduled for December 2025.
If your work involves the use of communications systems, it’s important to understand what the PSTN shutdown means for you. In this article, we’ll provide a guide for businesses on how to prepare for the PSTN shutdown and what connectivity solutions are available.
As technology evolves and outdated systems are retired, a wide variety of next-gen solutions become available. While choosing the right tech for your business is critical to success, embracing up-to-date technology gives business owners the opportunity to enhance their systems, accelerate speeds and optimise security.
What is the PSTN?
The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is a system that has been in place for over a century, providing reliable voice and data communication through traditional phone lines. However, as technology continues to evolve, the PSTN is gradually being replaced by digital communication systems.
The process of phasing out the PSTN is known as the “PSTN shutdown” or “PSTN switch-off.” This means that traditional copper wire networks and analogue lines are being retired, and businesses and individuals will need to migrate to digital alternatives such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or mobile networks.
Next-Gen Solutions Replacing PSTN
For businesses that still rely on PSTN for their communication needs, there are several options available to ensure a smooth transition to digital alternatives. Some of these options include:
1. Mobile networks
Many businesses are choosing to switch to mobile networks as an alternative to the PSTN. Mobile networks offer the convenience of wireless communication, and they are often more cost-effective than traditional phone systems. Comms 365 is an expert in resilient networks through mobile SIM connectivity for businesses.
2. VoIP (Voice over IP)
This is another choice for businesses that want to maintain a traditional phone system while using digital communication technology. VoIP allows users to make and receive calls over the Internet, and it offers a wide range of features such as call routing, voicemail, and conferencing.
3. Cloud-based phone systems
Cloud-based phone systems are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a flexible and scalable solution for businesses of all sizes. These systems are hosted in the cloud, and they offer a wide range of features such as call recording, virtual voicemail, and call forwarding.
It is important for businesses to begin planning for the PSTN shutdown as early as possible to ensure a smooth transition to digital alternatives. This may involve working with a telecommunications expert like Comms365 to develop a migration plan and investing in new hardware and software.
How Easy is it to change from PSTN?
The ease of changing from PSTN to a digital alternative will depend on several factors, such as the size and complexity of your organisation, your existing infrastructure, and your specific communication needs. However, in general, the process of switching from PSTN to a digital alternative can be relatively straightforward if you plan carefully and work with an experienced telecommunications provider.
Here are some general steps that may be involved in the process of switching from PSTN to a digital alternative:
- Evaluate your current communication needs: Take stock of your current communication needs, such as the number of lines you require, the types of features you use, and any other specific requirements.
- Determine your budget: Consider your budget for a new communication system and factor in any hardware, software, and installation costs.
- Research and compare different digital alternatives: Research and compare different digital alternatives such as VoIP, mobile networks, and cloud-based phone systems to find the one that best meets your needs.
- Choose a telecommunications provider: Choose a reputable telecommunications provider that can help you design and implement your new communication system.
- Internet Connectivity: Since the alternative to fixed line telephony requires a stable internet connection you may want to consider the benefits of bonded internet. Bonded Internet solutions from Comms365 provide an internet connection that is proven consistent and resilient, which means no missed calls due to a drop in internet connectivity.
- Install and configure your new system: Once you have chosen your provider/s, work with them to install and configure your new system. This may involve upgrading your hardware, configuring your software, and training your staff on how to use the new system.
- Test and optimise your new system: Test your new system to ensure that it meets your communication needs and optimise it to ensure maximum performance.
- Decommission your old PSTN system: Once your new system is up and running, you can decommission your old PSTN system.
Overall, while switching from PSTN to a digital alternative may require some initial planning and investment, it can be a relatively straightforward process if you work with an experienced telecommunications provider and plan carefully.
Embrace Next-Gen Solutions with Comms365
If you’re only just used to your existing setup, you’re probably feeling apprehensive about the upcoming shutdown and what comes next! That’s why our expert team are on hand to help. From explaining how the latest tech works to identifying the best solutions for your business, we’ll help you to navigate the future and integrate the most effective technology for your company.
To find out more, contact Comms365 now on 01234 865880 or email our team at sales@comms365.com