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VoIP vs Traditional Lines — PSTN Switch-Off

The UK’s move away from the public switched telephone network (PSTN) retires copper-based dial tone many SMEs still lean on. VoIP over broadband replaces it — but only if power, bandwidth and compliance (911/999, alarms) are handled deliberately.

Next step: Plan SoGEA or fibre plus a hosted phone system. Contact us with a list of analogue devices still on wall jacks.

What actually disappears

Traditional voice channels on copper, many WLR bundles and some franking or fax workflows that depended on analogue signalling. Data continues on SoGEA/FTTP — voice rides as packets.

Lift alarms, gates and payment terminals

Mission-critical analogue endpoints need vendor-approved ATA replacements or cellular backup — do not assume a free SIP app fixes compliance. Document testing with your maintainer.

VoIP quality prerequisites

Stable upload, sensible QoS and low jitter matter more than “gigabit download”. Separate guest Wi-Fi from handsets — Wi-Fi guide.

Migration sequencing

Pair this topic with WLR switch-off, SIP trunks and porting so cutover night has a checklist, not hope.

Related guides

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