The Great British ISDN/PSTN Switch Off: Everything You Need to Know

Firstly, let us explain to you what the terms ISDN & PSTN mean: The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and the public switched telephone network (PSTN) are UK’s nationwide facilities that transmit voice calls, data and other communication services.

Why are they being switched off?

The traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) was designed to carry analogue voice data over copper wires. The business landscape has changed, and the technologies that were once good enough, now not only slow down your employees, but can cost a business lots of money every month.

You’re probably wondering how your business can prepare for the switch off?

Well, you’re in luck as we have the perfect solution for you! If you currently have a traditional ISDN/PSTN based system, now is a good point to look into the alternative. Although there is plenty of time until 2025 rolls around, it’s best to plan ahead and you may actually find you want to migrate sooner rather than later after finding out all of the benefits the replacement ‘IP’ based systems have to offer.

Migrating to an IP-based phone system may seem like a chore or simply something that a business is compelled to do prior to the ISDN switch off, but business owners should instead view it as an opportunity to improve their company.

• It’s affordable & cost effective – no need for masses of onsite equipment
• Easy setup & maintenance – maintaining the system is simpler than a traditional telephone system
• Freedom – Flexible nature allows you to add and remove users as and when you need.

An internet-based solution can allow a company to migrate its existing numbers to a system that also enables them to integrate it with new features like video calling and screen sharing. In the age of remote working, this can massively improve a company’s communications.

So, what is the best IP-based phone system?

At Rydal, we recommend the Curo IP (VoIP) solution. This IP-based phone system is becoming more and more popular with businesses, which will make your business phone less susceptible to outages. These days, everybody expects fast, flawless service from their telephone system. Our Curo IP has got this covered in many ways. The biggest feature may be the 24/7 uptime and the fact that, if there is a problem, there are no wet cables to check or fix because everything is online. Everyone could do with some of that!

As you can see, the ISDN switch off is as much an opportunity as it is a problem, it just depends on your perspective. One thing’s for sure though, ISDN end of life is around the corner and hopefully now you’re a bit more prepared for it!

While these changes might seem scary at first, there’s no need to worry. We’re not just waiting for the ISDN switch off date to arrive in front of our computer screens like a doomsday clock. Instead, you should take this opportunity to become more efficient with your phone systems! Who knows, maybe you will end up loving what the future of communications brings. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you get there safely. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out.