The clock is ticking
You may already be aware that the age of the analogue phone is ending. WLR (Wholesale Line Rental) is being replaced by an IP (Internet Protocol) system as old copper lines can not deliver the volume or quality of voice data needed in this increasingly evolving digital world. With PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) services to be switched off in 2025, many businesses are switching to SOGEA broadband (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access). It removes the need for a traditional phone line to deliver your broadband, so you don’t need to pay that extra cost. By the end of December 2025, the ‘traditional’ method of making and receiving phone calls in the UK will be a thing of the past.
Time for action is NOW
We appreciate that 2025 seems a long way into the future. But the switch-off is already happening, as this so-called ‘stop sell’ transition is due to be in place across the UK by September 2023. This means that after that date, nobody – whether consumers or businesses – will be able to buy or add new features to their PSTN or ISDN-based telephone services, so you need to start planning your move today because there could be a lot to do. Remember, it’s not just about calls. You need to review everything you’re connecting to your phone lines, like door entry systems and alarms. Given the ongoing trials by Openreach – and the September 2023 restriction of new PSTN and ISDN services – we are advising all of our customers to at least have an informed discussion about their telephone system and any analogue lines they may have. Taking action now will ensure minimal disruption and open new opportunities for your organisation.
What are the benefits of SOGEA?
SOGEA broadband is a cheaper, more flexible, and future-proofed solution. It is easy to migrate and install, reduces downtime, and supports VoIP.
Cheaper
You only pay for a broadband connection
Landlines are no longer required
Flexible
Easy to migrate
Simple to install
Reduces downtime
Future-proofed
2025 compliant
More reliable
Supports VoIP
Things to consider
- All traditional voice services will have to be delivered using a digital voice service – VoIP (voice over IP).
- Traditional fax services will stop working, but there are alternatives such as Fax 2 Email (part of our VoIP service) and scan to email is supported by the best multi-function business printers.
- Alarm and CCTV systems that utilise PSTN and ISDN connections will need to be updated.
Why to make a switch to VoIP phone now?
The improved reliability of VoIP is one of the main reasons why the old copper network is being switched off. Provided you have a reliable internet connection, a VoIP service can offer better call quality and way more flexibility than a traditional phone line.
With VoIP you can make and receive calls through your phone line from any device, wherever you are, and get access to new benefits like having voicemail send to your email address. Business users benefit from features like call forwarding, automatic rerouting to the correct department, and integration with CRMs. Our VoIP packages offer Intelligent Call Service (ICS) which is a fantastic tool for getting a handle on how effectively your business handles incoming calls and it’s now included as standard with our VoIP service.
Moving to VoIP and making the switch from analogue now mean businesses can start to take advantage of savings. You’re going to have to make the switch anyway, so we recommend customers do it sooner and enjoy savings in the meantime!
Why Wessex IT?
Wessex IT can help your business navigate the switch to SOGEA and VoIP services. We can advise, migrate and support your business during the switch-off so you can be reassured that your current and future IT systems are in good hands.
If one of your services that we already provide is going to be affected by the switch-off, we will guide you through the change. Things won’t just stop working!
If you’re looking to move or upgrade current services with other suppliers, we offer a variety of solutions that can replace and often improve your current communications. Our range of broadband products are suitable for all types of organisations.
