By January 2027, the ISDN network will be switched off for good. Maybe you’re asking: “What is ISDN? What does this switch off mean for my business? And what do I have to do to prepare?”

Don’t worry – read on to discover everything you need to know about the end of ISDN.

What is ISDN / Why is it being switched off?

Why is it being switched off?

Technology has come a long way since the ISDN was built. Neither the ISDN nor the PSTN can keep up with the levels of data we share today. This will only get worse with time.

The old-fashioned, notoriously unreliable copper cables from the PSTN are now being replaced with more powerful, reliable, and future-proof full fibre cables. These allow the use of a phone service over VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). Although Hyperoptic’s network is full fibre, some providers haven’t caught up yet.

For service providers, it doesn’t make sense to invest in maintaining and replacing parts of the ageing system anymore, especially with so many users already having switched to Internet Protocol (IP)-based networks.

How will this affect my business?

The ISDN switch off means that your business will need to make the move to an IP-based network before January 2027. If you leave it too late, you could be left without a phone line at all. Providers are now focusing their attention on services like VoIP or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). Most major internet service providers (ISPs) are moving their entire voice network to VoIP. Hyperoptic’s phone service, for example, is delivered entirely over VoIP.

Moving to VoIP

What is VoIP?

VoIP allows you to make phone calls via an internet connection, rather than a traditional phone line.

This can happen in different ways. A VoIP service on your computer or mobile devices could use software such as Microsoft Teams to transfer digital signals. Or you could use a traditional-style handset plugged directly into your router.

How will VoIP affect my business?

While it might feel like an inconvenience to make the switch to VoIP systems, there are many benefits to making the change.

Future proof

VoIP is the standard for tomorrow – you won’t have to switch again any time soon.

Cost effective

Businesses can save money on their call costs when using VoIP as opposed to ISDN calls. You also don’t have to pay expensive line rental costs.

Mobile

VoIP is fantastic for today’s agile workforces. Wherever you have internet access, you can access your VoIP systems. At home, in the office, or on the go, you can stay connected to colleagues and clients – so VoIP can boost businesses’ productivity.

Reliable

The full fibre networks that VoIP operates on are far more reliable than old copper networks. Find out more about the reliability and other Benefits of Full Fibre.

Scalable

It couldn’t be easier to scale your VoIP systems as your business needs change.

You can also take advantage of features like call barring, call recording, and call waiting. These functions vary depending on your set up, so make sure to do your research and find the best package for your needs.

What should I do to prepare for the ISDN switch off?

Whether you’re looking to make the switch to VoIP now, or you want to wait and assess your options, the next three steps will help guide your business through the process when you’re ready.

Preparing to switch to VoIP

Step 1: Consider your needs

The first step to preparing for the switch off of ISDN and moving to VoIP is to consider your business and its needs.

Many factors will affect your VoIP requirements, including:

• The number of people working for your business.

• Whether you work from the office, from home, on the go, or a hybrid.

• If you’ll need to scale your business solutions.

If you have a large workforce, you’ll need a great broadband connection and multiple VoIP-enabled devices. If you or your team work on the go, you’ll need a system that caters for mobile communications. If your business is growing, you may want to choose a provider with flexible packages that can adapt as your needs change.

Step 2: Find the right provider

The most important step in switching to VoIP is finding the best ISP. VoIP relies on broadband connection, so it’s vital to look around and consider your options.

For example, not all business broadband providers offer equal upload and download speeds. Hyperoptic do, because we know that VoIP relies on both a fast upload and download speed for the two-way data transmission. We also offer VoIP as an add-on for business broadband deals, which can make the switch smoother.

Another thing to consider is the support your ISP will provide. What happens if your internet connection goes down? Not only will you lose access to crucial online systems, but you’ll lose access to your phone network as well. That’s why Hyperoptic offer our business customers dedicated support, with 24-hour SLAs should anything go wrong.

It’s also important to consider how reliable the broadband connection you choose is. Hyperoptic’s network is full fibre, which is the UK’s most reliable broadband technology.

Step 3: Make the switch sooner rather than later

While you don’t have to switch until January 2027, there are many benefits to making the move sooner.

As we get closer to the switch off date, providers will be focusing their resources on their VoIP offering. This will mean fewer engineers and parts will be available to maintain ISDN systems. If you have an outage, it could last a lot longer than you’d expect.

Making the switch sooner also means you can start taking advantage of all the benefits that VoIP can offer your business faster.

Start your switch today

We’re here to support you every step of the way with your VoIP transition. By choosing Hyperoptic, you don’t just get brilliant VoIP capabilities. You get:

• 99.9% reliable full fibre, the UK’s most reliable broadband technology

• Hyperfast business broadband with equal upload/download speeds on all packages

• Dedicated business support.

Whether you’re ready to make the switch, or simply looking for more information, our full fibre experts would love to help. Give us a call and we can discuss your requirements or click here to see our latest business deals.

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