Switch on to the switch off
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The PSTN/ISDN stop sell has already begun. If you're not prepared for the Great British Switch Off, here's what you need to know now.
As the UK moves away from copper connectivity towards an all-IP world of full fibre and Digital Voice, those old analogue voice connections you're using will soon become a thing of the past.
And though the network is due for retirement in 2025, the stop sell of copper services will take place much sooner. In fact, it's already started, and is due to be completed by late 2023.
How did we get here?
The UK has been building towards faster, more reliable, digital connectivity for a while and now it's time for the switch to take place. Here's how we've got to this point.
Are you switched on?
With only a third of smaller businesses and less than ten per cent of larger enterprises even aware of the Great British Switch Off*, it’s clear that many are heading for a surprise.
And while calls won’t suddenly stop working overnight, from new orders to working line takeovers, copper broadband to added lines, many current services will no longer be available to your customers.
SMEs and 2% of large businesses that are aware of the stop sell, do not know their next step
16% of large businesses (250+ employees) are unaware of the ISDN switch off
33% of SMEs are aware
What's being switched off and when?
The Great British Switch Off consists of two concurrently running projects.
The WLR withdrawal covers pretty much what you've already read about, that is the withdrawal of analogue (PSTN and ISDN) telephone services.
Running hand in hand with that scheme is the Full Fibre Priority Exchange programme, which is complementing the full fibre rollout to ensure full fibre becomes the predominant connectivity product across the UK.
The stop sell is well underway and will continue throughout 2023. Our Stop Sell exchange rollout table covers all the Tranches that have already completed.
Follow the link below to access the latest Stop Sell exchange list for more information on when your nearest exchange is due to be switched off.
Stop Sell exchange list
Tranche 1
5 exchanges
19 Feb 2024
Tranche 2
5 exchanges
20 Feb 2024
Don't let your business lose it's voice
Whilst the copper stop-sell could cause some a short-term upheaval for small business owners, it is clear that it will also offer widespread benefits.
The planned changes open up the opportunity to migrate to cloud based alternatives, making communication channels more reliable and suited to modern ways of working. This means you no longer need to be tied down to a fixed line at a fixed location. Instead of having an old copper line connection, a single, fast data connection carries voice calling and can facilitate unified communications tools, and opens the door to next phase of productivity growth through the likes of AI and automation.
Explore the communication and connectivity options available to your business.
'Switch Off' ready connectivity
It's time to ditch those old analogue connections and choose a service that will safeguard your communications for years to come. With higher quality, a host of additional features, and better value to boot, it's time to enjoy the benefits of modern business communications.
SOGEA Broadband
A modern, high-performance business broadband solution where full fibre isn't yet available.
Full fibre broadband
Stay connected 24/7 with ultrafast, reliable fibre broadband for business. Get the unparalleled speed, robust connection and consistent performance you need to thrive.
Leased Lines
Dedicated internet connections with improved reliability, speed and performance.
'Switch Off' ready voice
Want to talk?
If you’re looking to make the move to Digital Voice, or just want to find out more, our expert team is here to help. Just give us a call or fill in the form below and we’ll get back to you.
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