BT has announced a delay in the switch-off of its Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) from December 2025 to January 2027. This decision impacts a broad range of businesses who rely on PSTN for their telecommunications needs.
READ MORE: THE SWITCH OFF AND YOUR BUSINESS
Why the delay?
1. Customer transition challenges
One of the primary reasons for the delay is the challenge businesses face in transitioning from PSTN to modern alternatives like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Many businesses have found it difficult to migrate due to a lack of resources, technical expertise, or simply because they have not been able to prioritise the change amidst other business pressures.
2. Pandemic impact
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted business operations worldwide. Companies have had to focus on immediate survival and recovery, often putting long-term projects like PSTN migration on the back burner. BT recognises that the pandemic has left many businesses without the resources to handle the transition smoothly.
3. Infrastructure readiness
Ensuring the infrastructure is ready to support a seamless transition is crucial. BT aims to enhance its network capabilities to accommodate the increased demand for digital services. This extra time will allow BT to upgrade its systems.
4. Regulatory and compliance factors
Delaying the switch-off allows BT to ensure that all regulatory and compliance issues are thoroughly addressed. This is particularly important in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and public services, where reliable communication systems are critical.
What the delay means for businesses
Well, put in simple terms, you now have an additional year to plan and execute your transition!
This extended period is an opportunity for you to assess your needs, and work to implement changes. The delay also provides you with more time to budget for the necessary upgrades and spread the financial impact over a more extended period.
By considering future-proof solutions like VoIP, you can ensure your communication infrastructure remains robust and adaptable to future technological advancements.
Our VoIP phone system calculator is a handy tool so you can get an estimate on your costs.
ACCESS OUR PHONE SYSTEM CALCULATOR
How we can help
We’re here to help make the transition as simple as possible for you and your business and there are numerous reasons why the Big Switch-Off should be seen as an opportunity.
READ MORE: WHY THE BIG SWITCH-OFF IS AN OPPORTUNITY
Our 3CX telecoms solution enables you to integrate multiple channels, such as voice, messaging, voicemail and content sharing. We’ll implement, integrate, manage and control your communications network and ensure that you get the right connectivity, based on your unique requirements.
We’ll also create a migration plan to transition to the new system and test and optimise before going live.
BT's decision to delay the PSTN switch-off until January 2027 reflects a thoughtful consideration of the challenges businesses face in transitioning to modern communication systems. This delay offers an invaluable opportunity for businesses to prepare adequately, manage costs, and optimise their telecommunications infrastructure for the future.
For further information or to discuss your own situation please email us or call us on 01625 613 633.
