Digital Switchover UK Telephone - Landlines Go Digital
The traditional landline phone network in the UK, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), is planned to be phased out by 2025.
Ofcom, the UK telecoms regulator, has set out a program for phone companies to transition from the old analog copper network to an entirely digital phone system over IP (Internet Protocol) by 2025.
The process has already begun, with major providers like BT, Virgin Media, and TalkTalk starting to move their customers over to digital voice services. These use the internet to make calls rather than the direct copper phone lines of the PSTN system.
By the end of 2023, the goal is for 50% of the UK to be moved to digital phone services. By 2025, the remaining legacy PSTN services will be retired completely.
Some key dates in the PSTN switch-off timeline include:
- 2023 - Complete withdrawal of analog services
- 2025 - Retirement of the PSTN across the whole of the UK
- 2026 - Safety net date for total closure
The transition aims to free up resources to improve Britain’s digital infrastructure. Consumers will need to move to digital phone services as the old landline system is gradually retired region by region. The government is coordinating with providers to ensure everyone has access to new digital options.
Problems with the PSTN
The PSTN is a complex network that has been in operation for over 100 years. Over time, it has become increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain. The PSTN is also vulnerable to disruption and cyber-attack.
What is the digital switchover?
The digital switchover is the process of moving the UK's telephone network from a traditional analogue system to a digital one.
Benefits of the digital switchover
The digital switchover will bring a number of benefits to the UK, including:
- Improved reliability:
The new digital network will be more reliable than the
PSTN, with fewer outages and interruptions.
- Increased security: It will be more secure than the PSTN, making it less vulnerable to cyber-attack.
- Support for new technologies:
The digital phone network will be able to support new and emerging technologies, such as high-speed internet and video calling.
When will the digital switchover happen?
Timeline: The digital switchover is expected to be completed in 2025.
Exchange checker: You can use the exchange checker to see when your exchange is scheduled to be switched over.
What will replace landline phones?
- Alternatives to landline phones: There are a number of alternatives to landline phones available, including mobile phones, VoIP phones, and internet-based phone services.
The VoIP Shop can help you choose the right alternative to landline phone for your needs and budget.
How do I switch to a digital landline phone?
Steps to switch to a digital landline phone:
- Contact your landline provider to find out what digital phone services they offer.
- Choose a digital phone service that meets your needs.
- Order your new digital phone service.
- Install your new digital phone service.
What is the switchover help scheme?
The switchover help scheme provides financial assistance to people who need help switching to digital voice services.
Eligibility: You may be eligible for the switchover help scheme if you are receiving certain benefits or if you are over the age of 75.
How to apply for the switchover help scheme:
You can apply for the switchover help scheme online or by calling the switchover helpline.
The implications of the digital switchover for telecare and TEC services
Impact on telecare and TEC services: The digital switchover will have a significant impact on telecare and TEC services.
How to prepare for the impact of the digital switchover on telecare and TEC services:
Telecare and TEC providers are working to ensure that their services are ready for the digital switchover. You should contact your telecare or TEC provider to find out how they are preparing for the switchover and what you need to do to prepare for the impact on your services.
FAQ
Answers to some of our most commonly asked Digital Switch Over In the UK questions…
When will the digital switchover in the UK be completed?
The digital switchover in the UK is expected to be completed in 2025. However, some exchanges may be switched over sooner or later than this. You can use the exchange checker to see when your exchange is scheduled to be switched over.
When will landlines be phased out in the UK?
The UK government has not yet announced a date for the complete phasing out of landlines. However, it is expected that landlines will be phased out over time as more people switch to digital voice services.
What will happen to my landline phone number when I switch to a digital voice service?
You will be able to keep your landline phone number when you switch to a digital voice service. However, you will need to contact your landline provider to arrange for your number to be ported to your new digital voice service provider.
I am concerned about the security of digital voice services. Are digital voice services secure?
Digital voice services are just as secure as analogue voice services. In fact, digital voice services offer a number of security features that analogue voice services do not, such as encryption and caller ID authentication.
The VoIP Shop can help you make the digital switchover smoothly and easily. We offer a wide range of digital voice services to choose from, and we can help you choose the right service for your needs and budget.
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