The Big PSTN Switch Off: Embracing the Future with SOGEA and FTTP Connectivity

Background and Upgrades

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been a foundational technology for communications, providing the backbone for analogue phone lines and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) connections since the first copper wires went into the ground in 1875. As technology has advanced, the old-style copper wires have become outdated and slow to transmit data. Below, we discuss the big PSTN switch-off, planned for execution by the end of 2025, and the benefits of transitioning either to Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SOGEA) or Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) connectivity.

Why is the Big Switch Off Happening?

As digital communications technologies have advanced, the PSTN infrastructure is incapable of carrying the data volumes that we require. The traditional analogue phone lines that power ISDN services are no longer cost-effective, efficient, or sustainable. In this light, the connectivity industry has aligned to phase out PSTN services.

What are the important dates?

The initial phase of the PSTN withdrawal project began in 2020. Copper wires have been slowly replaced with fibre optic cables. This project will continue until 2025, when the project will be completed, and all wires in publicly accessible infrastructure will be transferred. By 2027, there will be no service to analogue copper wires.

Business Implications of The Big Switch Off

For businesses of all sizes, The Big PSTN Switch Off represents both challenges and opportunities. Understanding these implications is crucial in enabling businesses to make informed decisions.

1. Obsolete Infrastructure: Companies relying on PSTN services will face operational hurdles as their infrastructure becomes outdated. An obsolete connectivity system can result in increased maintenance costs and decreased reliability
2. Loss of ISDN: The discontinuation of ISDN services impacts businesses that depend on these lines for data and voice communication. This includes services such as video conferencing, data transfer, and more.
   
3. Missed Opportunities: With PSTN, businesses miss out on the enhanced capabilities of modern communication technologies, including improved voice quality, scalability, and integration with other digital tools.
   
4. Productivity and Efficiency: The switch to digital alternatives like SOGEA and FTTP offers businesses a significant boost in productivity and efficiency, which is essential to any SMB business' competitive advantage.
   

The Future of Communication: SOGEA and FTTP

As the old gives way to the new, two main options have emerged as replacements for the existing PSTN Infrastructure - SOGEA and FTTP.

SOGEA is a single service that provides high-speed broadband without needing to use landline infrastructure. The benefits of a SOGEA line are faster speeds, increased reliability, and it's elimination of the requirement for a telephone line.

FTTP services are the height of connectivity technology, replacing the traditional copper wires with fibre-optic lines up to the premises. It provides Gigabit-level speeds, reducing latency and ensuring slow connectivity is a thing of the past. Fibre Optic cables are immune to interference and offer consistent performance, making FTTP exceptionally reliable. Adopting FTTP also future-proofs businesses against technological advancements.

Why transition now?

The Big Switch off is not just about upgrading infrastructure, it's about embracing the opportunities in front of us with both hands. By adopting SOGEA or FTTP, businesses are future-proofing their businesses for years to come. These technologies are here to stay and improvements are constantly being developed, ensuring that businesses who adopt these technologies now are serviced for the long-term.

Investing in SOGEA and FTTP can also result in long-term cost savings. The reduced maintenance costs, increased efficiency, and productivity gains are already having positive impacts on the bottom lines of those who adopted these upgrades early.

From a sustainability perspective, both technologies are beneficial to the environment compared to copper wires. Installing each technology has a lower carbon footprint compared to installing traditional lines, and the fibre-optic cables are far more energy efficient, with less wasted heat and energy per data transfer.

How Mason Infotech can help you transition

Mason Infotech has been a trusted connectivity partner for businesses across the UK since 2003. We have helped over 1000 businesses make the transition from traditional copper wire to FTTP services, and we look forward to helping more businesses as these technologies become more prevalent. Our expert team is well-equipped to guide businesses through this transition with the following services:

1. Assessment and Consultation: Each use-case is different. We understand that each businesses or household has unique communication requirements, and Mason Infotech provides a comprehensive assessment of your current set up to offer tailored solutions for each user.
2. Smooth Transition: Our team is experience in managing transitions from traditional PSTN services to modern alternatives. We ensure a seamless migration, minimising disruption to existing communication services.
3. Technical Support: Once you've made the transition, you can count on Mason Infotech for ongoing technical support. Our team is just a call away. Our tech support routinely scores 85 or higher in NPS scores, so you know you're in safe hands.