Openreach are switching off copper lines
What does this mean for YOUR business?
If you have analogue lines, ISDN lines, PSTN lines, ADSL broadband or FTTC broadband, they are all switching off. You must move any numbers or devices using these services to new technology.
The switch off will happen in 2027. Exchanges throughout Britain began the move into a Stop-Sell in June 2021, meaning copper lines can no longer be ordered. What this means for businesses still on copper technology is that time is limited and a plan must be in place to transition to new technologies.
Wondering what to do next? Whatever your question, here at Wellwood Communications we’ve got the answers for you.
Why Are Openreach Switching Off the Copper Network?
This network has been used in the UK for well over 100 years, with little change to the infrastructure. As such, the underlying hardware is degrading and maintenance is costly.
Use of the PSTN has also been declining as mobile has become more popular, meaning the costs of the upkeep were no longer justified. Furthermore, the increasing availability of broadband, which is supported on this network, has meant that the PSTN has evolved into an almost completely digital network. This means there is no longer a requirement for traditional fixed line telephony.
Do I have Copper Lines?
Unless you’re using a cloud-based solution such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), it’s likely you are operating via ISDN or Analogue.
If you have ADSL or FTTC broadband, the underlying line is analogue (copper).
You may also have devices such as an alarm system, fax machine or franking machine connected to an analogue line (copper).
What options do I have?
SIP lines:
SIP is a cost-effective and flexible alternative to ISDN for your inbound and outbound voice calls.
SOGEA broadband:
SOGEA is a broadband service that provides internet connectivity without the need for a traditional phone line.
Cloud Technology:
Individual telephone extensions are connected through your broadband to the Cloud. The telephones are hosted in the Cloud. You don’t have a system onsite as its hosted offsite at a data centre.
The good news for your business is that future proofed solutions are waiting for you and they come packed with benefits including cost savings and business continuity.
Monthly costs for some customers have been reduced by up to 30%. Paired with the flexibility and agility a cloud solution can offer, it makes perfect sense to switch NOW.
What do I do if I’m still using copper?
Wellwood Communications are here to help you transition from analogue to digital and ensure your business remains unaffected. Contact Wellwood Communications on: 0333 5777 300
