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Preparing for the ISDN Switch Off: What Every Business Needs to Know

Preparing for the ISDN Switch Off: What Every Business Needs to Know

Arsalan Mahtab |

What Is the ISDN Switch Off?

From January 31st 2027, both PSTN and ISDN telephone lines will be switched off. After this date, any devices connected to these services will no longer work.These changes will see the traditional copper wire-based telephone network replaced by new fibre optic cables, guaranteeing faster speeds and reduced downtime.
In preparation for this transformation, as of September 2023, new ISDN lines are no longer available.

Are you ready?
It's not just telephones. There are a number of devices across every type of business that could become obsolete when the switch off happens. Below, we've broken down what to consider — whether you run a hotel, a school, or a small business — and the options available to keep you connected.

What Should You Be Thinking About?

Guest experience and safety-critical systems both rely on telephony more than you might expect. Consider:

  • Telephone Systems — Legacy deskphones and cordless handsets will no longer work after the switch off. These can be upgraded to new IP devices, converted to work on the new VoIP service, or replaced with a cloud-based system — from simple, compact phones for hotel rooms to advanced touchscreen devices for receptionists and cordless handsets for housekeeping.
  • PA Systems & Alerting — Paging systems, loud ringers and visual alerters help share notifications with staff and keep busy loading areas safe. Existing devices may stop working when the switch off happens.
  • Door Entry & Access Control — Security is critical in hotels. Door entry intercoms and access control systems restrict unauthorised access to controlled areas — these need to keep working through the transition.
  • Fire Alarms, Alarm Systems & Lift Phones — Older fire alarms, alarm systems and lift/elevator phones may also be affected. Convertors can adapt this equipment and minimise costs.


    For Schools, Colleges & Universities

    Campuses depend on communication systems that run across multiple buildings and large numbers of people. Consider:

    • Telephone Systems — Legacy deskphones and cordless handsets will no longer work after the switch off. Options include upgrading to IP devices, converting existing hardware to VoIP, or moving to a cloud-based system.
    • PA Systems & Alerting — Many educational institutions use loud ringers, paging systems and visual alerting devices for notifications, bell scheduling and campus-wide announcements. If these haven't been upgraded, they'll stop working when the switch off happens.
    • Door Entry & Access Control — Security is essential in schools, colleges and universities. Door entry intercoms and access control systems restrict and authorise access across campus.
    • Fire Alarms, Alarm Systems & Lift Phones — Older fire alarms, alarm systems and lift/elevator phones may also be affected. Convertors can adapt this equipment to minimise costs.

    For Small Businesses

    If your office equipment is still connected via ISDN or PSTN (analogue lines), it's important to start exploring your options now. The switch off could affect a wide range of your business communications, including:

    • Telephones
    • Fax Machines
    • Fire and alarm systems
    • Door Entry Systems
    • EPOS MachinesLifts/Elevators

      What Options Are Available?

      There's no need to panic! There are options to suit a wide range of budgets.

      Continue to Use Your Existing Equipment

      A number of specialist devices can convert your existing legacy equipment to work on the new, updated VoIP system. Analogue Telephony Adaptors (ATAs), VoIP Gateways and Session Border Controllers (SBCs) are all good options if you'd like to repurpose your existing hardware.

      Or, Upgrade Your Equipment

      • Telephones — Look at upgrading to an IP deskphone or cordless handset.
      • Paging & Alerters — If you use a loud ringer to alert staff that a phone or doorbell is ringing, IP devices are available so you can keep enjoying these features.
      • Cloud Based Systems — Looking to move away from the traditional deskphone? A range of cloud-based telephony solutions can help you take a new approach to your business comms.
      • Door Entry & Access Control — Traditional devices use analogue connections; IP versions to suit all budgets are available.

      How to Get Started

      We're here to make your transition as simple as possible. Whether you'd like to cut costs and convert your existing legacy equipment, or it's time to upgrade entirely, our team can help you identify what's currently in use and guide you to the best option for your budget and requirements.

      Contact us today to discuss your options and how we can help you prepare for the ISDN switch off.
       Our team will be happy to discuss your requirements and ensure a smooth transition for your business.