The Big BT Switch Off 2023 – 2025

The BIG BT Switch Off Has Already Started, ACT NOW!

A Guide to Avoiding Business Downtime!

What is the BIG Switchoff?

The term “Big Switchoff” refers to the transition from the old copper phone network to a new alternative called “Digital Voice.” In April 2021, BT Openreach announced their plan to gradually phase out the traditional UK telephone network between the end of that year and 2025. They aimed to migrate around 15 million lines (some estimates suggest up to 29 million home & business landlines) from analog to a replacement telephone service based on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). This significant transition to digital communication was branded as “Digital Voice.”

Essentially, this means that instead of using traditional copper wires, telephone calls will be digitally transmitted over the internet (broadband or other types of Internet connections). In individual households and small business, people will need to connect a new digital phone, powered by mains electricity, to their router rather than a wall socket.  The change also affects business customers, small and large corporations who operate with older traditional and even relatively new switchboards (also known as PBX’s) since a good proportion of these connect to the BT Openreach network using copper wires.

The End of ISDN-2 and ISDN-30

The discontinuation of the traditional public switched telephone network (PSTN) in the UK will consequently mark the end of ISDN since it relies on the same copper wire phone network. Additionally, BT Openreach has announced that they will no longer accept new orders for PSTN, ISDN2, and ISDN30 services starting from September 2023.

Why are BT Doing This?

The aging PSTN is approaching the end of its operational lifespan and is becoming progressively more challenging and costly to maintain. Consequently, Openreach has considered and are implmenting a complete abandonment of the legacy copper network to eliminate the need for managing two parallel systems. Additionally, there are now modern alternatives available that align with our current modes of communication, such as mobile and internet-based services.

The transition to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) presents several advantages for customers, including:

• Expanded capabilities: VoIP offers a wider range of functionalities.
• Cost savings and reduced system failures: Providers can experience cost savings, fewer outages, and simplified operations.
• Scalability and portability: VoIP phone systems can be easily relocated as a company moves.
• Enhanced mobility and flexibility: Communication becomes more mobile, flexible, and productive, promoting collaboration.
• Improved security: VoIP systems receive continuous updates to enhance security measures.
• Heightened reliability: VoIP systems provide greater reliability compared to traditional networks.
• Enhanced customer experiences: The switch to VoIP can result in improved customer interactions.
• Clearer calls and number retention: Calls become clearer, and customers have the option to separate broadband and telephone services.
• Effective nuisance call management: VoIP enables better identification and prevention of nuisance calls, saving time, money, and potential protection against scammers.

You can read more about BT’s reasons, plans and schedules by clicking BT Big Switch Off.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

By the end of 2025, the “Big Switchoff” of the old PTSN network and the transition to “Digital Voice” and VoIP is expected to bring forth a communication service that is more flexible, reliable, scalable, and secure. This upgraded service aims to meet the demands of the modern digital world while potentially offering cost savings. However, presently, numerous businesses in the UK still face frustration due to slow broadband speeds, the country’s lag in adopting the 5G network, and the absence of reliable broadband in rural areas.

Although the full benefits of the digital switchover will not be realized until the end of 2025, Openreach has allowed ample time for thorough testing and trials. This approach aims to address any issues and ensure a seamless transition from analog, minimizing costly disruptions for businesses.

Mitigating the Impact – Replacing Old Copper with New IP Telephony

By choosing a cloud-hosted IP telephony solution, businesses can mitigate the impact of the BT Big Switchoff by ensuring uninterrupted communication, embracing the benefits of digital communication, and preparing for future advancements in the industry. 

The move to a 3CX Cloud Hosted Telecoms Solution provides the following transitional benefits:

• Smooth Transition: With the BT Openreach Big Switchoff on the horizon, it’s crucial to have a communication solution that adapts effortlessly. 3CX hosted systems provide a seamless transition, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for your business.
• Independence from Copper Lines: As traditional copper lines become obsolete, 3CX hosted systems utilize VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology. Say farewell to reliance on copper infrastructure and embrace the benefits of digital communication.
• Future-Proof Technology: 3CX hosted systems are designed with the future in mind. As the telecommunications landscape evolves, your business can stay ahead with advanced features, scalability, and flexibility provided by 3CX.
• Cost Efficiency: Switching to 3CX hosted systems allows you to eliminate the expenses associated with outdated copper lines. Enjoy significant cost savings while benefiting from enhanced communication capabilities.
• Business Continuity: Don’t let the BT Openreach Big Switchoff disrupt your operations. 3CX hosted systems ensure uninterrupted communication, even during the transition period. Stay connected and serve your customers seamlessly.

Top Business Benefits of Using 3CX Cloud Based IP Telephony

3CX telephony systems offer several benefits for businesses:

• Cost Savings: 3CX operates on an IP-based communication model, which reduces costs associated with traditional phone lines and long-distance calls. It leverages existing internet connectivity, eliminating the need for separate phone lines and reducing monthly communication expenses.
• Flexibility and Scalability: 3CX allows businesses to easily scale their communication system as they grow. Adding or removing extensions and phone lines is straightforward, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. It also provides flexibility for remote work and allows employees to use their smartphones or computers as extensions.
• Unified Communications: 3CX integrates various communication channels, including voice calls, video calls, instant messaging, and presence status, into a single platform. This unified approach improves collaboration and efficiency within the organisation by centralising communication tools and streamlining workflows.
• Advanced Features: 3CX offers a wide range of advanced telephony features, such as call forwarding, voicemail, call queuing, auto-attendant, call recording, and CRM integration. These features enhance productivity, customer service, and overall communication efficiency.
• Web Conferencing and Collaboration: 3CX includes integrated web conferencing capabilities, allowing users to conduct virtual meetings, share screens, and collaborate in real-time. This eliminates the need for separate conferencing solutions and enables effective remote collaboration.
• Easy Management and Administration: 3CX offers a user-friendly management console that allows administrators to control and configure the system easily. It provides intuitive interfaces for managing extensions, call routing, and system settings, reducing the need for technical expertise.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: With features like call queues, call recording, and CRM integration, 3CX enables businesses to deliver better customer service. Calls can be efficiently routed, monitored, and recorded, leading to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Integration with Business Tools: 3CX integrates seamlessly with popular business applications such as CRM systems, enabling automatic call logging, customer information display, and click-to-call functionality. This integration enhances productivity and improves the overall customer experience.
• Mobility and Anywhere Access: With 3CX, employees can access their business phone system from anywhere using their smartphones or laptops. This mobility ensures that users can stay connected and productive even when they are away from the office.

Why Choose Realtime Data Systems?

• Expertise and Experience: As a leading provider of communication solutions, Realtime Data has the expertise and experience to guide you through the BT Openreach Big Switchoff. Trust our knowledgeable team to handle the transition with minimal disruption.
• Tailored Solutions: We understand that every business has unique requirements. Our dedicated professionals will work closely with you to design a customized 3CX hosted system that perfectly aligns with your specific needs.
• Comprehensive Support: From initial setup to ongoing support, Realtime Data is committed to your success. We offer comprehensive training programs and round-the-clock support to ensure your business maximizes the benefits of 3CX hosted systems.

Embrace the BT Openreach Big Switchoff Today!

Prepare your business for the future of communication, check out our 3CX Hosted Telecoms by clicking 3CX IP Telephony

Contact us at sales@realtimedatasystems.co.uk or call 0333 358 2101 to schedule a consultation and discover how our hosted systems can future-proof your business during and after the the BT Openreach transition.