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After entering into the year of 2020, we are now another year closer to BT’s ISDN switch off – the target switch off date is still set at 2025.

You will not be able to purchase ISDN lines from 2023, so make sure you are prepared and have your telephony plans set in place ready for the switch.

Is Your Business Prepared for the ISDN Switch Off?

What to Do if You Use ISDN

While the ISDN infrastructure has been significantly upgraded since its conception in 1986, the network has remained unchanged. Which is why, after heavily investing in VoIP, BT have decided to focus their resources into IP technology instead.

Yes, you can still purchase ISDN lines until 2023 now, but it will still become obsolete and you will have to switch sooner or later. It is definitely a good time to start looking into the alternatives and what communication method works best for you and your business.

If your telephony contract is up for renewal, there is no other reason why you shouldn’t start exploring your other options. Planning ahead and looking at the benefits of IP-based systems will help convince you about switching sooner.

What Are the Alternatives?

The two main alternatives that your business could switch to are:

SIP Phone Lines

SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) uses virtual phone lines rather than physical ones like ISDN, transmitting calls between data networks and connecting them directly to the Public Telephone Network. Most phone systems, including on-premise systems, are compatible with SIP so you may have the option of not changing your existing phone system.

Hosted VoIP

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) allows you to get your phone service delivered through your internet connection. Basically, all you have to do is rent your phone system and pay for your internet provider.

What Are the Benefits?

Both of these options give your business the flexibility the scale up or down, add or remove as many lines as you need. They are both very affordable and cost-effective options, saving your business money by utilising IP technology. Finally, the setup of these phone systems is a lot easier than traditional ones which means less downtime and also, they have easier maintenance requirements.

Want to Talk to Someone About the Switch?

If you have any more questions about the ISDN switch off or would like some help with your telephony options for your business, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team today.

Fill out our contact form, drop us an email or give us a call and we will be more than happy to guide you through this change.

T: 01284 771 555

10 Woodside Business Park,
Thetford Road,
Ingham,
Suffolk, IP31 1NR