If your business still relies on traditional phone lines, change is coming whether you plan for it or not. The UK’s old copper telephone network, often called the PSTN, is being switched off and replaced with digital services that carry calls over the internet. The national migration is due to finish by early 2027.
That makes now a sensible time to review your phone system, rather than being forced into a rushed decision later.
What the switch off means
Once your area moves over, traditional analogue lines stop working. That affects more than desk phones. Alarm systems, door entry panels, card machines, lift lines and fax machines that rely on a phone line may also need attention.
Before you upgrade, it is worth listing everything in your building that plugs into a phone socket.
What VoIP actually is
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) carries your calls over your internet connection. Instead of a switchboard in a cupboard, your phone system runs in the cloud. Staff can use desk phones, a computer or a mobile app, all on the same business number.
The benefits for small businesses
- Work from anywhere. Calls follow your staff between the office, home and the road.
- Keep your numbers. Existing numbers can usually be moved to the new system.
- Lower costs. Line rental for multiple lines is replaced by simple per user pricing, and internal calls are free.
- Better features. Call queues, auto attendants, voicemail to email and call recording come as standard.
- Easy to grow. Adding a new user takes minutes rather than an engineer visit.
Getting your connection right
VoIP depends on a reliable internet connection. Before switching, check your broadband speed and stability, especially upload speed. For busier offices, a full fibre connection or a leased line gives calls the headroom they need, and a 4G or 5G backup keeps phones working if the main line drops.
Your router should also be able to prioritise voice traffic, so calls stay clear when someone is uploading large files.
Choosing the right system
There is no single best VoIP platform. A small team might be well served by a straightforward cloud phone system. A business that already lives in Microsoft Teams may prefer Teams calling. Companies wanting advanced call handling and integrations often choose 3CX.
The right choice depends on how many people need a line, how calls should be routed and which tools your team already uses.
Making the move smoothly
A well planned migration should be almost invisible to customers:
- Audit your current lines, numbers and connected devices
- Check and, if needed, upgrade your internet connection
- Design call routing around how your business works
- Port your numbers and switch over at a quiet time
- Train staff on the new phones and apps
We help businesses across Dartford and north Kent move to VoIP with no lost calls. If you would like to know what the switch off means for your business, speak to our team.