The UK’s traditional phone network, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN Switch-Off), is being retired. By January 2027, it will be permanently switched off. That means the copper landlines that many businesses still rely on will no longer work.
For decades, PSTN has powered everything from desk phones to card machines and alarm systems. However, as technology advances, this outdated infrastructure is being replaced with faster and more reliable digital alternatives.
Why Act by December 2025?
Although the final switch-off date is set for January 2027, the stop-sell of traditional services takes place by September 2023, and by December 2025, no new orders, upgrades, or changes to PSTN-based services will be possible. In practice, this means businesses must have a clear migration plan in place by then to avoid disruption.
What’s Changing?
If your business still uses copper lines for any of the following, you’ll be affected:
– Desk phones or older PBX phone systems
– Security alarms and door entry systems
– Payment card machines
– Fax lines or other legacy equipment
Once the switch-off happens, these systems will simply stop working.
The Good News: A Smarter Future with Digital
Moving to digital and cloud-based services is not only straightforward, it’s a step up for your business. Modern solutions are:
– More reliable: no downtime caused by ageing copper lines
– Flexible: supporting remote and hybrid working with ease
– Future-proof: ready to integrate with tools your business already uses
– Cost-efficient: predictable monthly pricing and reduced maintenance
Instead of being held back by old infrastructure, you’ll gain a communications platform built for the way businesses work today.
Why Choose 4th Platform and Gamma?
As a trusted Gamma partner, 4th Platform provides proven, cloud-based telephony and communication solutions that help businesses transition smoothly away from PSTN. With us, you get:
– Expert guidance from our vCIO team to assess your needs
– Seamless migration from copper lines to VoIP and cloud telephony
– Unified Communications (UCaaS) and Contact Centre (CCaaS) options for collaboration and customer service
– Ongoing support to keep your systems running reliably and securely
We don’t just replace your phone line; we help you design a communications solution that supports your business strategy for years to come.
Don’t Leave It Until the Last Minute
With the December 2025 milestone fast approaching, businesses need to act now. Waiting until the final months could mean rushed decisions, limited availability, and unnecessary downtime.
Talk to 4th Platform today about planning your move off PSTN and onto a modern, future-ready system powered by Gamma.
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