The PSTN switch-off is fast approaching, and all Active Digital customers need to be prepared—here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth transition

When is the PSTN Switch-off Date?

BT has recently announced an extension to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off in the UK. The previous deadline of December 2025 has been postponed to 31 January 2027.

Openreach (a subsidiary of BT) has reacted to this announcement by extending the withdrawal timeline of their Wholesale Line Rental family of products (landline and ISDN services) to the same date.

Why is the PSTN Switch-Off being Postponed?

This delay is primarily due to the difficulties in securing the smooth transfer of vulnerable customers, such as the complex migration issues that could disrupt continuity for safety-critical devices, such as telecare devices, including personal alarms, which in some cases were found to stop working during the initial stages of the switch-off. It is estimated that 2.3 million people in the UK currently use personal alarms that rely on the telecommunications network.

Act Now before Time & Resources Run Out

It is wrong to think that the extra 13 months given by the delay means pushing back your plans for action. We highly recommend that you continue to focus on December 2025 in order to achieve risk free migrations that ensure continuity of services from the simple to the complex.

This is especially true for the public sector and other organisations that provide a duty of care to vulnerable people and the elderly. We look at those responsibilities in more detail below.

We also make a case for urgent action by businesses and property owners to address service continuity, fire safety and security issues (particularly companies who own, operate and manage buildings).

For expert guidance and tailored solutions to keep your business connected, contact Active Digital today—we’re here to help you navigate the switch-off seamlessly.

Why not book a call with our Digital Experts to understand how this might affect you and your business

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List of Affected Equipment

Many businesses still rely on PSTN service-based technologies and will be severely impacted by the switch-off. We have provided a quick reminder of affected services below to help with general awareness (please note, this is not a complete list, and you should conduct a thorough review of your equipment):

• Phone Lines: All phones connected to a landline or ISDN line
• Broadband: Businesses using ADSL or FTTC
• Door Entry Systems: Systems running on ISDN
• Alarms: fire, smoke and intruder alarms that reply on analogue communication
• EPOS Machines
• CCTV
• Lift Emergency Lines: These usually run on PSTN and you should contact the servicing company or manufacturer to find out what provision is being made to switch to VoIP or cloud telephony
• Cash Machines
• Fax machines: Fax machines usually access the PSTN via an analogue interface
• Health Monitors and Telecare devices
• Cardiac Arrest Phones
• Secure phones (Brent phones)
• Pagers
• Level crossing emergency phone lines
• Utility monitoring & control lines
• Bus stops
• EV charging hubs
• Travel card technology
• Roadside telephones

Don’t Wait – Speak to Us Today

The PSTN switch-off is a significant change that requires careful planning and the right technology to ensure a seamless transition. Whether your business relies on landlines, security systems, or other affected services, now is the time to take action. At Active Digital, we provide expert advice and tailored solutions to help you future-proof your communications. Don’t risk disruption—book a call with our Digital Experts today and let us guide you through the switch-off with confidence