BT PSTN Switch-Off Delayed to 2027 – What Your Business Needs to Do Now
BT has confirmed the BT PSTN Switch-Off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)—the UK’s traditional landline phone system. But if you’ve been following the timeline, there’s been a new development: the full switch-off has been delayed.
Originally planned for December 2025, the final shutdown of PSTN has now been pushed back to January 2027. However, this delay shouldn’t be seen as extra time to “wait and see”—businesses still need to act.
What Is PSTN and Why Is It Being Switched Off?
PSTN is the old-school copper-based phone network that powers most traditional landlines, fax machines, and some older broadband connections.
BT is retiring the system for good to make way for faster, more flexible, and future-ready alternatives like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), which uses your internet connection for phone calls.
Updated Timeline for the BT PSTN Switch-Off
- Sales of PSTN/ISDN services have already stopped as of September 2023.
- Migration to digital lines is underway across the UK.
- The new deadline for full switch-off is January 2027.
That means by early 2027, anything still connected to PSTN will no longer work—including phone systems, alarms, and payment terminals.
What Does the BT PSTN Switch-Off Mean for Your Business?
Even with the delay, businesses should not postpone planning. The sooner you switch, the smoother the transition will be.
You could be affected if you rely on:
- Traditional landline phones
- ISDN lines
- Fax machines
- Building alarm systems
- Lift/emergency lines
- Card payment machines using old phone connections
You’ll need to migrate these services to digital alternatives well before the deadline to avoid disruption.
What You Should Do Next
- Audit your tech.
Identify any devices still running on PSTN or ISDN. - Move to VoIP.
VoIP is reliable, cost-effective, and ideal for modern hybrid working. You can even take calls on your laptop or mobile from anywhere. - Check broadband speed.
VoIP needs a stable internet connection—Eitex can help you test and upgrade if needed. - Talk to your alarm, lift, or card machine providers.
Make sure they’re ready for digital phone lines too.
Eitex Can Help You Transition
We’ve already helped many businesses prepare for the switch and move to future-proof digital phone systems. Our team can:
- Review your current setup
- Recommend and install a VoIP system that suits your business
- Provide ongoing support and training
- Ensure you’re ready well before the 2027 deadline
Use the Delay to Your Advantage
The PSTN switch-off is coming, delay or not. But acting now gives you more control, better pricing, and time to train your team and test your new system.
Get in touch with Eitex today for a no-obligation telecoms review. We’ll help you stay ahead of the switch and make communication easier, not harder.