ISDN Switch Off - Your 5 Year Notice

BT announced that from 2020 onwards you will no longer be able to purchase ISDN and PSTN circuits. As of 2025, these circuits will be shut off completely. This is a major step towards the United Kingdom’s mass IP-network migration, with VoIP core networks set to replace all legacy telecoms technology.

While 2025 may still sound a long way off, the phase out has already begun. Now, is your opportunity to review your telecoms infrastructure across the board and make sure it’s ready to grow along with your business.

What is ISDN and PSTN?

ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is a digital form of communication that allows for both voice and data to be transferred between parties, but still based on the traditional phone lines. As this takes up so much physical space and you need to administer and maintain the lines, it can take up a lot of time.

PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is an analogue form of communication carried over copper wiring, allowing for voice to voice engagement, essentially the traditional phone lines we are all familiar with.

Why is ISDN being Switch Off?

The ISDN switch off is merely an evolution of a now obsolete technology and indicative of the exciting advancements the industry has made. When ISDN first launched it revolutionised how companies did business, however with the introduction of cloud technology, ISDN is now outdated and cannot meet the growing demands of business today.

The switch off means all communications will be over the internet instead of relying on copper phone lines, including phone calls (voice data) as well as data sharing over the internet, which will reduce costs significantly for all.

If you would like more information about the ISDN switch off please get in touch with us.