How to Prepare Your Business for the UK’s Telephone Network Switch Off in 2025

Find out if you are using PSTN or ISDN lines. If you have a PSTN/ISDN (analogue) line, it will be using the copper on the FTTC line for people to make phone calls. The PSTN/ISDN line will  be ceasing, leaving the FTTC in place for internet connections. This means anyone with a FTTC connection for internet will be fine, however, anyone using it (the PSTN/ISDN) for phone calls must move to VoIP (in the cloud), and only use the FTTC for the internet.

If you are using a legacy phone system that does not support VoIP, you will need to upgrade or replace it with a VoIP-enabled system. If you are using a cloud-based phone system that already uses VoIP, you may not need to make any changes, but you should still check with your provider to find out if there are any additional requirements. You can also use this opportunity to look for a new provider, for better pricing, features, and support.

You will need to check what other services are running on your lines, this can be alarm systems, EPOS machines, cash machines, door entry systems etc. You may need to switch these devices to IP mode, put in an Analogue Telephone Adapter that converts these services to IP, or speak with your provider to see if you need to upgrade these services completely.

There are many VoIP providers in the UK, but not all of them offer the same level of quality, security, and customer service. You should look for a VoIP provider that has a proven track record, a strong network infrastructure, a comprehensive range of features, and a competitive pricing plan. You should also look for a VoIP provider that offers local support, as well as migration and installation assistance.

Before you switch to VoIP, you should plan and test your VoIP migration to ensure that everything works as expected and that there are no disruptions or issues. You should consider factors such as your internet speed and bandwidth, your network configuration and security, your phone number portability, your backup and contingency plans, and your staff training and awareness. You should also test your VoIP system and service before you go live, to check the quality, functionality, and compatibility of your VoIP calls.

Auditing the current VoIP set up is a crucial step to ensure that you can switch to VoIP smoothly and efficiently. The audit will cover the following aspects. We will check what type of phone system you have, whether it is compatible with VoIP, and what features and functions it offers. We will check how many phone lines you have, what kind of service you use (e.g. ISDN, PSTN, broadband), and what your call volume and usage are. We will check what other services you use on your phone lines, such as fax, alarm, EPOS, PDQ, CCTV, or lift emergency systems, and whether these can be migrated to VoIP or need an alternative solution. Finally, we will check what devices and software you use to make and receive calls, such as handsets, headsets, softphones, mobile apps, or CRM systems, and whether they are compatible with VoIP or need upgrades or replacements. If you are a current customer, we will conduct the audit for free, as part of our ongoing support and maintenance. If you are a new customer enquiring, we charge a fee for the audit.

After the audit, we will present our recommendations for the best VoIP solution and Internet Provisions for your needs and budget. We will explain the benefits and features of each option, as well as the installation and maintenance costs. We will also liaise with any other providers that you use for your other services.

Once the VoIP solution is agreed, we will then complete any necessary migrations. We provide a full managed VoIP service, with a 15-minute SLA for any issues or queries. We can also handle any line changes that you may need for your internet connection, such as upgrading to fibre broadband or switching providers. We will ensure you have a reliable and fast internet service that supports your VoIP needs. We will coordinate with you and the existing providers to schedule the migration at a convenient time, with minimal disruption to business operations. We will also provide training and support for your staff on how to use the new VoIP system and its features.

We will also provide ongoing management and support for the VoIP system and Internet Services. We can handle any changes that are needed, such as adding or removing DDI numbers, changing voicemail messages, or updating call routing settings. We have a 15-minute response time for any issues or queries that you may have, and we will resolve them as quickly as possible. We are always available to help you get the most out of your VoIP service with BCS.