What is the Big Switch off in 2025?
In 2025 Openreach will be switching-off the Digital (ISDN) and Analogue (PSTN) network infrastructure which currently provides telecommunication services to millions of businesses and organisations across the United Kingdom. The impact of this change will be considerable so it is important to understand how this will affect you and your business. The project to switch off digital and analogue services is already in motion so you should consider your options at the earliest convenience. 75% of UK SME business have already adopted hybrid services and systems in preparation for the Big Switch Off in 2025.
What services will be affected by the shut-down of Digital & Analogue services?
The shutdown of the digital and analogue network is not just about telephones the knock-on effect is huge as it effects entire infrastructures, security systems, payment systems and legacy-based internet access
| Analogue Line (PSTN) | Dial up devices, fax, alarm systems, modem, building management systems, lift lines, PDQ machines, Analogue Phones and Systems |
|---|---|
| Internet Access using analogue bearers (PSTN) | Fibre to Cabinet (FTTC) ADSL2+ |
| Digital Services (ISDN2e, ISDN30) | Digital Business Telephone Systems (Panasonic, Avaya, NEC, Toshiba, Mitel, Samsung, Siemens, BT Meridian, Alcatel) |
The Future of Communications is IP
Broadly speaking IP (Internet Protocol) is a term used when accessing the Internet. When adding telecommunications to communicate over IP the protocols SIP (Session Initial Protocol) and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) come into play. After the shut-down of the digital and analogue network in 2025 – communication over VoIP and SIP networks will become the new normal
What is SIP & VoIP?
SIP & VoIP networks allow users to make voice, and video transmissions on a global scale over a high-speed internet connection using the following equipment
- IP Telephone
- Smart Mobile, PC, Laptop or Tablets
- Smart-TV
The most noticeable change with IP Technology compared to digital and analogue technology is its versatility, plus a noticeable reduction in operating and capital costs.
Your business will not need to be tied to fixed location with a fixed line to operate, allowing you the freedom to mobilise or virtualise your operation whilst retaining ownership of your telephone number wherever you are – providing you have access to the internet.
SIP & VoIP Communication systems are also referred to as Cloud Telephony or Hosted Telephony Systems
What systems are compatible with SIP & VoIP?
| Service Type | Compatible Systems |
|---|---|
| Internet Access (SIP) | Dial up devices, fax, alarm systems, modem, building management systems, lift lines, PDQ machines |
| Internet Access (VoIP) | Cloud Telephony Systems, Softphones, Video Conferencing |
Will the Big Switch Off Affect Broadband Services?
Yes, it will – as traditional Fibre Optic Broadband (Fibre to Cabinet or FTTC) and Legacy Broadband (ADSL2+) still operate over analogue lines.
In line with the shut-down of the digital and analogue network new flavours of broadband are available to order.
These types of broadband do not require the installation of an analogue bearer/line to operate.
| Service Type | Compatible Systems |
|---|---|
| Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) | FTTP stands for fibre to the premises, and essentially refers to fibre broadband that is wired directly to a premise instead of a cabinet which must use an analogue line for the final leg of connection to a premise |
| SOGEA | SOGEA stands for Single Order Generic Ethernet Access. It enables providers to order broadband without a phone line. |
| Smart Hub | All in one Router encompassing a mobile sim – uses Mobile Data to access the internet. We recommend this service as a temporary solution only |
Migrating your current FTTC or ADSL2+ service to the latest broadband technology is completely seamless, however some services are still subject to availability whilst Openreach continue to roll out fibre network services across the United Kingdom.