PSTN & ISDN Switch-off FAQ: Your guide to the 2027 deadline
Posted on 23 February 2026 by Beaming Support1.What is the switch?
The traditional landline phone network (PSTN) is being switched off by Openreach, and all landline services are moving to digital technology by January 2027. This change, which you might see referred to as The PSTN Switch Off, means that phone calls will no longer be connected through the copper wire network, but instead via the internet.
2. What services are affected?
- Broadband services that run over an analogue line (e.g., ADSL & FTTC Fibre Broadband).
- Analogue voice telephone services.
- Dial-up devices, fax, alarm systems, modems, building management systems, lift lines, and PDQ machines.
- ISDN 2e and ISDN 30e lines.
3. Do I need to ‘Switch’?
This will depend on what broadband and phone product you are currently using.
If you are already using a FTTP or SOGEA broadband connection and a digital voice phone line (such as BeamRing), then you are already using the upgraded services.
You may think you’re using fibre, but this may just be a part-fibre product called FTTC, which is not switch-over ready. It is worth checking with your ISP. Beaming customers can call Leanne on 0800 082 2868 (Option 1) and she will check for you.
4. Why can’t I wait until January 2027?
To ensure a smooth transition, we recommend starting the process as soon as possible. Not only will this allow you to switch to the right products for you, it also reduces the risk of your existing analogue services failing, which may lead to longer lead times for fixes due to fewer parts and engineers being available.
Although we are proactively contacting our customers, please be aware that this upgrade is not automatic. If you have not heard from us yet, we recommend getting in touch. To ensure your services remain uninterrupted, December 2026 is the absolute latest safe date to start the process and maintain service continuity, since number porting has lead time of 10 days and broadband around the same.
By switching now, you will also save money. Openreach is increasing wholesale prices to encourage analogue users to transition to full fibre services. The prices of their older technology will increase as follows across the next year:
- A price hike of 20% from April 2026
- A further hike of 40% in July 2026
- A further hike of 40% in October 2026 (Doubling the Q1 2026 rental price!)
The message is clear: the earlier you switch, the smoother the process and the less you’ll have to pay.
5. Will it cost me any extra?
In many cases, the monthly cost of a digital service is very similar to what you currently pay for an analogue line. However, switching sooner rather than later is often the most cost-effective choice for a few reasons:
- Avoiding price hikes
Copper-based services are subject to several price increases this year. By switching to a digital package now, you can avoid these upcoming hikes.
- Tailored packages
We offer flexible options to ensure you only pay for what you need. For example, if you are not a heavy internet user, we can provide a 40/10 SOGEA package.
- Setup and equipment
Initial costs will vary depending on your current setup. You may need to purchase:
- New digital-compatible handsets, unless you are happy to use an App on a smart phone or laptop/computer.
- Adapters for your existing equipment.
- An opportunity to save
This transition is the perfect time to review your current bill. We frequently help customers identify and remove charges for legacy services they no longer use, such as dedicated fax lines or redundant connections.
6. Will I need new equipment?
Not necessarily. if you use Webex with BeamRing for your digital phone line, this can be accessed using your smartphone, PC, or tablet. But if you would like to have a desk phone, we offer a great range of digital desk and cordless handsets to purchase or rent.
Some existing analogue equipment can be adapted to work using an Analogue Telephone Adapter (ATA). Find out more in our article here: https://www.beaming.co.uk/knowledge-base/navigating-the-digital-switchover-keeping-your-analogue-phone-connected/
7. Will the switch be disruptive?
We understand that this might not be a process you would choose to undertake and may be concerned it could impact your day-to-day working. At Beaming we aim to make it as seamless as possible. You will have one point of contact who will answer any questions you have and manage the switch process for you. Providing you allow enough time before the switch-deadline there should be no downtime, so you don’t need to worry about missing calls or losing internet access.
8. Will I lose my phone number?
No, you will be able to keep your phone number during and after the switchover. We explain more here: https://www.beaming.co.uk/knowledge-base/how-to-switch-phone-or-broadband-provider-without-losing-your-number-or-service/
9. Will my card payment terminals continue to work?
First, identify which terminals, PIN pads, or POS machines connect via a phone line. Contact your provider to check if they are compatible with a digital line or if they will need to be upgraded.
It is worth noting that digital terminals need power to work. If your router loses power, your card machine will not work unless you have a backup power supply.
10. What if I have a security alarm or door entry system?
Many alarms, lift lines, and door entry systems rely on analogue lines. We recommend you contact your equipment provider to confirm whether your system will work on the new digital network or if it will require an adapter.
11. With a digital phone line, can I make a call if my internet goes down?
If your connection goes offline, you have the following options:
- Softphones: Make and receive calls as normal via the app on a smartphone or laptop. A BeamRing softphone will work using a 4G mobile hotspot.
- UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): If your line is essential, you can use a UPS to keep your broadband router and ONT (fibre box) running during a power cut. This offers a short-term solution of around an hour.
- Alternative Locations: Plug your BeamRing handsets into alternative locations that have power and internet access; they will continue to operate as usual.
- Call Forwarding: Forward calls automatically to a mobile phone number.
A cloud phone system is accessible from anywhere. Find out more here: https://www.beaming.co.uk/knowledge-base/voip-if-our-site-goes-down-does-that-mean-we-cant-answer-calls/
12. What if I do not have enough spare ports on my router to plug in a phone?
A way round this would be to purchase a network switch for the type of router you have. We can source this for you, or they are readily available from electrical shops and online retailers.
13. I currently have multiple lines; can I keep this setup after the switch?
Instead of having multiple, separate copper wires for your business, all lines will typically be consolidated through a single broadband connection. A VoIP phone system (such as Webex with BeamRing) can then be configured to support as many lines as required.
14. Can I make calls on the phone when the other phone is engaged?
Yes! This is a great benefit of VoIP that was not possible on a standard PSTN line without multiple expensive rentals.
15. What if I just want a phone line and don’t need broadband?
You will need an internet connection to make phone calls on the new digital network. However, if you do not need the connection for anything other than a digital phone line, we can provide a product suitable just for voice that is less expensive. We can guide you on the right broadband package for your needs.
The switch-off is coming, and very soon you’ll no longer have time and choice, but there’s no need to panic. We’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Get in touch and we will take you through what you need to do.
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