Eight things that will stop working after PSTN switch off

To help, we've assembled a list of technologies that you'll need to upgrade before the deadline.

1. “The Landline” (Voice Calling)

After over 120 years of service, the analogue line will be retired. If you use a PSTN line for making or receiving phone calls, you will need to migrate your number to an IP based voice service.

2. PSTN based broadband

Both ADSL and FTTC are delivered over analogue lines and will need to be migrated to All-IP replacement services before the switch off. These include FTTP, SoGEA and SoADSL.

3. On-premises PBXs

If your on-premises phone system (PBX) uses ISDN lines for external calls, you’ll need to act. Both ISDN2 and ISDN30 services are included in the PSTN switch off, but it’s an easy process to migrate from ISDN to SIP trunking to keep your PBX connected. Alternatively, if your PBX is approaching end of support, you could migrate directly to a Cloud UC solution such as Microsoft Teams Phone or Hosted Voice with Webex.

4. Fax Machines

Granted, you probably haven't used a fax machine for a while. However, it is still in use in some sectors such as healthcare and law. Fax machines do not work reliably over IP voice services, so if fax is still a need for your organisation, we would recommend migrating your fax numbers to a cloud eFax service.

5. Payment terminals

Most point of sale (PoS) terminals use broadband or mobile data these days, but some older ones may still use dial-up technology. This was of course designed for use over the PSTN and not IP networks. If you are uncertain, you should speak to your PoS service provider.

6. Monitoring systems

Some sectors use monitoring systems that rely on the PSTN. For example, water companies use devices to monitor pipes and help prevent flooding. IoT has driven significant development in this area over the years, and typically modern monitoring devices would use mobile data.

7. Alarm systems

Monitored alarm services designed to operate over the PSTN will need to be upgraded. Some of these services may cease earlier than the PSTN switch off and you should speak to your alarm installer as soon as possible.

8. Lifts

Emergency phones in lifts are commonly connected using an analogue phone line and these will stop working with the PSTN switch off. Replacement systems must meet defined safety requirements and may require power backup and resilient connectivity. It is critical to contact your lift maintainer to ensure compliant emergency calling is maintained after the PSTN switch off.

Get prepared for the PTSN switch off

There are many technologies that make use of PSTN services – all of which need updating before 2027. The move from PSTN to All-IP brings a range of benefits and is a great opportunity to review your wider connectivity and communications strategy.

No matter what size your organisation, Claranet has the right services to help you plan and get moved off the PSTN:

• All-IP broadband including FTTP, SoGEA and SoADSL (plus 4G, satellite and AltNets).