Business Networking Events in Exeter

In this month's presentation, Mark will take you through the implications of the planned copper switch-off.

"Everyone will have to make the move to a VoIP Digital Cloud telephone solution at some point.

The plan to phase out BT and Openreach's old copper-based analogue line services (PSTN phones and WLR), originally set for completion by December 2025, has been postponed to January 31, 2027. This extension aims to provide broadband ISPs, telco providers, and consumers with additional time to adjust.

Openreach's "Stop Sell" policy is still in effect, meaning customers using copper lines cannot switch to a new provider while retaining their copper-based service.

Additionally, Openreach is no longer installing new copper-based voice services. After December 2025, Openreach plans to provide operators with customers still using copper services new terms and a three-month termination notice period to transition them to an IP-based service.

The declining reliability of PSTN as it ages. According to Ofcom's Connected Nations 2023 report, the number of PSTN incidents increased by 20% last year, and there was a 60% increase in hours lost for customers relying on PSTN."