What’s Happening in 2027?
The UK is approaching a major telecommunications milestone: the PSTN switch-off UK. By January 2027, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) will be permanently decommissioned. Spearheaded by Openreach, this nationwide transition marks the end of legacy copper-based systems and the move towards fully digital communications over IP networks.
For UK businesses, this isn’t just a technical update—it’s a fundamental shift in how you connect with customers, process payments, and manage operations. If your infrastructure still depends on PSTN, now is the time to act.
Why This Matters to Your Business
Many organisations still rely on PSTN for:
Landline phone systems
Payment terminals and card machines
Security alarms and door entry systems
Fax machines and telemetry devices
Lift/emergency call services
As these systems become obsolete, failure to transition could result in:
Downtime and lost revenue
Inability to process payments
Critical security failures
Loss of essential services
Worse still, some communications providers may switch off PSTN earlier than 2027—as early as December 2025. The clock is ticking.
The Urgent Call from Openreach
Openreach has officially called on UK businesses to speed up their migration plans.
“The nationwide transition to an All-IP network is a huge undertaking, and ensuring vulnerable users are protected has been a priority. Now that we are confident we have addressed those needs, it’s time for businesses to act.”
The infrastructure is ready. Support is available. But businesses must take responsibility for transitioning now before support windows shrink and deadlines arrive.
The Three-Step Plan: Review. Test. Switch.
To make the migration manageable, Openreach and providers like 1Connect recommend the following three-step approach:
1. Review
- Identify all devices and services still using PSTN/ISDN
- Consider broadband lines, phones, alarms, tills, intercoms
2. Test
- Confirm if current devices will work with digital solutions
- Use Openreach’s testing labs or consult with service providers
3. Switch
- Migrate to All-IP or VoIP alternatives
- Upgrade infrastructure where required
- Choose a partner to manage the transition end-to-end
Migration Checklist
- Audit all PSTN-connected equipment
- Review contracts with CSPs or IT providers
- Consult a digital migration expert (like 1Connect)
- Schedule cutover plans in advance of deadlines
The Benefits of Migrating Early
The UK is approaching a major telecommunications milestone: the PSTN switch-off. By January 2027, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) will be permanently decommissioned. Spearheaded by Openreach, this nationwide transition marks the end of legacy copper-based systems and the move towards fully digital communications over IP networks.
For UK businesses, this isn’t just a technical update—it’s a fundamental shift in how you connect with customers, process payments, and manage operations. If your infrastructure still depends on PSTN, now is the time to act.
How 1Connect Can Help
At 1Connect, we specialise in helping UK businesses modernise their communications. Our team provides:
Free audits of existing phone and internet infrastructure
Recommendations on the right hosted telephony or VoIP solution
Seamless installation and migration support
Ongoing managed support post-migration
Whether you need basic hosted telephony or a fully integrated UCaaS platform, we make it simple.
Explore your options: Hosted Telephony Solutions
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
The PSTN switch-off in the UK isn’t just coming—it’s happening. Businesses that leave it too late risk serious operational challenges. And while 2027 might feel distant, some providers are switching off far sooner.
There is still time to take action proactively. But the window is closing.
Let’s Make the Switch Simple
Don’t get left behind. Future-proof your communications today by arranging a no-obligation consultation and begin your transition to digital. “It’s time for businesses to act!”
