If your team works remotely or in a hybrid setup, and you’re wondering how the PSTN switch-off might affect you, you’re not alone. As the UK moves towards full digitisation of its communications infrastructure, businesses of all shapes and sizes need to start asking the right questions, especially when it comes to supporting dispersed teams.
Below, we answer the most pressing questions to help you prepare your remote and hybrid workforce for a seamless transition.
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional copper wire phone system that’s been around for decades. While once revolutionary, it’s now outdated, expensive to maintain, and simply not up to the demands of modern digital communication.
BT Openreach is gradually decommissioning the PSTN (alongside ISDN), with a complete shutdown scheduled for January 2027. In its place, businesses will need to use all-digital services, like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), that work over broadband networks.
You might be surprised to learn just how many remote setups still depend on PSTN-based systems. From legacy landline phones used in home offices to broadband connections that run over copper wires, many hybrid workers could be unknowingly impacted.
Even tools like fax machines, payment terminals, or call-forwarding services in satellite offices may be operating over analogue lines. If your team uses on-premise phone systems, or if you’re diverting business numbers to remote staff, the switch-off could cause disruptions unless you upgrade.
For distributed teams, the biggest risk is loss of connectivity. If your PSTN-based landlines go offline, so does your ability to make or receive business calls. Home-based broadband that still relies on PSTN could stop working altogether.
Beyond connectivity, there’s also the issue of downtime during migration, gaps in employee training, and even missed customer calls if digital systems aren’t set up correctly. Without preparation, remote teams could find themselves isolated and out of touch.
The primary replacement for PSTN is VoIP, which enables phone calls over the internet. It’s a flexible, cost-effective solution that’s perfect for remote and hybrid environments. If you’re unsure where to start, take a look at our step-by-step guide to switching to VoIP. We walk you through the process, from internet checks to hardware choices and team training.
Other options include SIP trunking (ideal for businesses with existing phone systems) and Unified Communications (UC) platforms that integrate calling, messaging, and video into one system.
These technologies are designed to scale with your workforce, allowing employees to make and receive calls using desk phones, laptops, or mobile apps, no matter where they are.
Start by auditing all your PSTN-connected services – phones, fax lines, alarms, broadband, and more. Once you know what needs replacing, research providers who offer VoIP or UC systems that support hybrid working.
Plan your migration with enough time for setup, number porting, and training. Moneypenny clients can take advantage of our free digital transformation audit through Lily Comms to identify exactly what’s impacted and what to do next.
In the short term, the switch might feel like a hassle – but in the long run, it’s an upgrade. Digital phone systems offer powerful features that enhance collaboration: mobile apps, voicemail-to-email, call recording, team chat, and video integration.
Once your team is up to speed, they’ll be better connected, more productive, and less reliant on physical infrastructure. The result? A truly flexible work environment that can adapt to your team’s needs.
Unlike PSTN, digital systems rely on internet infrastructure, which means businesses need to take cybersecurity seriously. Choose providers with strong encryption protocols, secure data centres, and compliance certifications.
Make sure remote users are trained in best practices, such as using secure Wi-Fi, VPNs, and multi-factor authentication. And if your team handles sensitive information, ask your provider about call recording compliance and data retention policies.
Many forward-thinking businesses have already made the switch and reaped the rewards. They’ve seen better call quality, reduced costs, and more flexible working capabilities. Those who planned early avoided the last-minute scramble, long wait times for engineers, and inflated costs.
The lesson? Start sooner rather than later.
The switch-off is a catalyst for smarter, more agile working. With digital tools in place, your business won’t just survive the PSTN shutdown, it will thrive in a fully connected, modern communications landscape.
Hybrid and remote working are here to stay. Make sure your telephony is, too.
If you need advice or support resetting your Moneypenny divert number as part of the switch, our friendly Client Support team is on hand to help. Call us on 0345 123 3700, and we’ll make sure your business stays seamlessly connected wherever your team works from.
Want to dive deeper? Don’t forget to read our full blog ‘ISDN Switch Off: The top questions answered’ for even more insights and practical tips.
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