PSTN and ISDN Switch-off
Prepare Your Business Ahead Of The Change
In 2015, BT announced that they would be turning off their PSTN (Public Switch Telephone Network) and ISDN (Integrated Service Digital Network) by 2025. However, this deadline has now been pushed back to 2027.
What are PSTN and ISDN networks?
PSTN is the original copper analogue network. Data and voice travel over these copper lines. It is this network of copper wires that facilitates analogue voice services and broadband.
The ISDN was developed to carry digital data and voice traffic. The ISDN system was an upgrade and bolstered the pre-existing PSTN system. The ISDN’s digital architecture means that data can be transported more quickly and efficiently.
So, if PSTN and ISDN are getting switched off, what's coming in to replace them?
The replacement for both systems is VoIP – Voice Over Internet Protocol. VoIP enables voice calls to be made over an internet connection. This means that voice calls can be made over a range of different devices. The VoIP system requires a broadband connection; this can be through a cable modem, a DSL or a local area network.
Through the new system, VoIP will allow you to convert your voice into a digital signal that travels over the internet. You will be able to make direct calls from a laptop or computer, a VoIP phone, or a traditional phone using a VoIP adapter.
How will the ISDN switch-off affect your business?
Switching from PSTN to VoIP could potentially affect a range of your organisation’s operations. From phone services to CCTV and door entry systems, there is a range of features that will likely be connected to the PSTN that you will have to make adjustments for the big switch. BSG Telecom can guide you through this process.
