How Will the PSTN Switch Off Affect Remote Teams?

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off is looming closer, and businesses across the UK are being urged to prepare. With the switch-off scheduled for 2027, the transition to fully digital systems will impact all organisations that rely on traditional telephone lines for their communications and internet connectivity. While many businesses have already moved towards VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and fibre-based services, remote teams are one of the sectors that will need to consider how the "Big Switch Off UK" will affect their operations.

In this blog, we'll discuss how the PSTN switch-off will impact remote teams and the steps businesses can take to ensure smooth communication and collaboration during the transition.

The PSTN, or Public Switched Telephone Network, is the traditional network of copper-based telephone lines that have been the backbone of landline communications for decades. The switch-off means that copper phone lines will no longer be in use, forcing businesses and consumers alike to shift to newer digital communication systems, such as fibre broadband and VoIP.

For businesses with remote teams, the switch-off brings several considerations. It’s important to understand how communication, internet, and productivity will be affected and plan to make a smooth transition to new technologies.

Remote teams rely heavily on their home or office internet to stay connected with their colleagues and clients. Many residential and small business broadband connections currently depend on PSTN-based services, particularly ADSL connections. When the PSTN is switched off, these services will no longer be available, and teams will need to upgrade to fibre or alternative internet services.

For SMEs, the shift to digital broadband services such as fibre is essential to avoid disruptions. Businesses should explore options like business internet for SME and SME leased lines to provide their remote teams with stable and fast internet connectivity, which will become critical as PSTN-based services are phased out.

Remote teams often rely on traditional landlines or legacy systems for voice communication. The PSTN Switch Off will force a shift towards VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone systems, which use the internet to make calls rather than copper wires.

VoIP offers several advantages for remote teams, including the ability to use a business phone number from any device with an internet connection, improved call quality, and lower costs. To maintain seamless communication, businesses must invest in a reliable business-grade internet connection and switch to a VoIP solution before the switch-off.

Many remote teams rely on collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Slack to work together on projects. These tools depend on stable internet connections and reliable communication services.

After the switch-off, traditional ISDN and ADSL lines will no longer work, and any lag in upgrading to fibre or VoIP systems could lead to reduced productivity, disconnection from team members, and missed deadlines. To mitigate these risks, businesses need to prepare in advance and ensure remote teams have the right infrastructure to support the transition.

The first step to preparing for the PSTN switch-off is to audit the current communication and internet systems that your remote teams rely on. Identify whether any employees are using PSTN-based services, such as landline phones or ADSL connections, and make a plan to transition them to digital alternatives.

Once you've identified which services will be affected, you’ll need to upgrade to fibre broadband or explore options like SME leased lines for enhanced reliability and performance. Leased lines provide a dedicated internet connection with faster speeds, ensuring remote teams can collaborate without lag or disruption.

VoIP is the best solution for businesses that need to maintain seamless communication with remote teams after the PSTN switch-off. With VoIP, employees can make and receive business calls from any internet-connected device, regardless of location. It’s a scalable and cost-effective solution that will ensure your team stays connected.

If your business doesn’t have the in-house expertise to manage the transition, it’s wise to engage with an IT support provider. They can help ensure your systems are ready for the Big Switch Off UK, provide guidance on selecting the best business internet services, and set up VoIP for remote teams, minimising downtime and disruption.

The PSTN Switch Off is fast approaching, and businesses with remote teams need to be ready. With the right preparation, you can ensure that your team transitions smoothly to fibre broadband and VoIP services, maintaining high levels of communication, collaboration, and productivity. Taking proactive steps now will save your business time, money, and frustration down the road.

If you need assistance in preparing for the PSTN switch-off, including advice on business internet for SMEs, SME leased lines, or VoIP solutions, reach out to our team for expert guidance.