Is your retail business ready for the PSTN switch-off?

16/07/25 Wavenet

Is your retail business ready for the PSTN switch-off? placeholder thumbnail

PSTN switch-off for retail organisations

A groundbreaking change in UK business communications is happening, and it’s heading straight for retail stores like yours! The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) switch-off – the planned phase-out of traditional phone lines – is the most significant technological shift in the UK in three decades. Are you prepared to adapt? Here’s everything retail businesses need to know to stay connected, without disruption to daily operations, and futureproof their organisation.

What is the PSTN switch-off and why should retailers care?

Since 2023, BT and other UK telecom providers have been ceasing the sale of legacy communication services like conventional phone lines, ISDN, and analogue lines. But the full PSTN switch-off is scheduled for January 2027 – meaning your landlines, broadband, and connected devices will soon need to migrate to new, digital technology.

For retail stores and other enterprises, the biggest change in UK telecoms history impacts everything from your EPoS systems and card payment machines to emergency alarms, lifts, door entry systems, and beyond. Many of these critical systems still rely on legacy analogue or ISDN connections, which will be no longer supported.

And here’s the thing: it’s easy to overlook how many devices depend on old PSTN lines. But disruption to these systems could seriously impact your day-to-day retail operations.

Why is the PSTN switch-off a critical change for retail organisations?

Traditional PSTN lines and ISDN connections are being phased out, replaced by fibre-based ‘all IP’ technology.

The PSTN switch-off will impact all devices and services depending on analogue or ISDN connectivity – and many retailers rely heavily on these.

From cash registers and payment terminals to emergency systems, reliance on outdated tech leaves your store vulnerable during the UK PSTN switch-off or service outages.

This is the biggest technological upgrade in retail communications history – and if you don’t prepare, you risk interrupted service, costly downtime, and compliance issues.

How can retailers prepare for the PSTN transition?

One of the most important steps you can take is partnering with a trusted, experienced telecom provider who understands the unique needs of retail businesses. The right partner will guide you through every stage of the PSTN migration – without you having to worry about complicated technical details or unexpected outages.

Why a trusted, experienced provider matters for help with the PSTN switch off

During this major switch, relying on an expert ensures your retail store remains fully operational, your critical systems stay online, and you’re ahead of the game. A good provider will:

Conduct a thorough local audit of all your systems, alarms, and devices that depend on legacy lines – identifying what needs to change without interrupting your daily business.

Design a tailored migration plan that fits your retail schedule, minimising downtime during busy periods.

Handle all the technical work – from installing fibre connections to configuring new IP-based systems – so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Keep you informed, providing clear communications and guidance throughout the process.
Offer ongoing support and training so your staff are confident in using the new systems.

How to choose the right partner for the PSTN switch-off

Look for a provider that has extensive experience working with retail businesses and understands their specific challenges. They should be able to deliver a smooth migration, helping you avoid service interference, unnecessary costs, and compliance issues.

Act now

Ready to switch? Download our Step-by-Step PSTN Switch-off Planning Tool

Don’t wait until the last minute! To make sure you’re prepared and protected, download our free Step-by-Step PSTN Switch-off Planning Tool. This practical, easy-to- understand guide will walk you through everything you need to do, including replacement options. Take control now, stay connected and make your retail business future-ready – without the hassle, and with confidence.

Visit wavenet.co.uk/pstn-switch-off for more information.

Download your PSTN switch-off planning tool here

Download here

Unified Communications & Voice, PSTN, Retail, Blogs

Latest blogs

See all posts

Placeholder thumbnail

PSTN switch-off step-by-step planning tool

Preparing your business for the PSTN switch-off and ensuring a smooth transition The UK’s PSTN switch-off is happening, and the deadline is January 2027 – and it’s poised to change everything for businesses. If you’re wondering what it means for you or how to prepare, our PSTN switch-off step-by-step guide is your essential playbook. Early action means fewer surprises, smarter investments, and new growth avenues. Why UK businesses must act now for the PSTN switch-off This isn’t just a tech upgrade – it’s a strategic leap forward. Our guide walks you through a simple audit of your current systems, showing you which parts need modern solutions. The sooner you act, the faster you’ll benefit from scalable, cost-saving alternatives like SIP trunking and fibre-based services. Discover your future communication technologies Say goodbye to outdated PSTN lines. Modern solutions such as SIP over full-fibre networks and flexible voice replacements put you in control – scaling easily, reducing costs, and boosting reliability. For smaller setups, select voice replacements make migration simple without overhauling your entire system. Why SOGEA is your future-proof solution Migrating to SOGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) is vital for staying connected during this change. Our step-by-step plan covers everything from managing the migration to avoiding pitfalls, giving you a frictionless, future-ready connection. Download your essential PSTN switch-off planning guide This isn’t just a PDF – it’s your business continuity toolbox. Inside, you’ll find easy-to-understand checklists, actionable solutions, and practical migration strategies to: Pinpoint which systems need upgrading Choose the right successor technology Create a tailored migration strategy Switch easily with minimal disruption Act now to stay connected, competitive, and compliant during this crucial transition. Your future communications start here! Visit wavenet.co.uk/pstn-switch-off for more information.

Placeholder thumbnail

Boardroom vs breach: 20 questions every IT leader should be asking about cyber security

Cyber threats are evolving faster than most organisations can keep up. Between new attack techniques, expanding digital estates, and the cyber skills shortage, even well-equipped IT teams are struggling to stay ahead. It’s no longer enough to tick compliance boxes or to simply deploy the latest tools. Real security starts with asking the right questions and acting on the answers. That’s why we’ve created Boardroom vs Breach, a 20-question self-assessment designed to help IT leaders and those responsible for cyber-security take a clear-eyed look at your current security posture, highlight blind spots, and spark critical conversations at board level. Why this matters The cost of a cyber breach isn’t just downtime – it’s trust, reputation, compliance fines, and lost revenue. Yet many companies don’t know if their defences are actually up to the task – do you? These 20 questions aren’t about theory; they reflect real-world weak points that we see every day. If you can’t answer them confidently, we can help. The 20 questions you need to answer Visibility & monitoring Do you have complete visibility of your IT assets? What visibility do you have into incidents and events across your infrastructure? How do you manage your security tooling? How many different tools are you running — and are they working together? Are your systems and endpoints patched regularly? Our advice: Gaining complete visibility starts with consolidating event data, automating alerts, and ensuring continuous oversight across your entire estate. Take a look at: Security Information and Event Management Vulnerability Management Managed Detection and Response Threat detection & response What happens if an incident occurs after hours? How do you find out? Who responds? When was your last penetration test? How regularly do you conduct them? What protections are in place for endpoints, email, and networks? What level of visibility do you have into potential breaches? Do you work with a partner that offers 24/7/365 response and real-world support? Our advice: Improve threat visibility and reduce response times by combining real-time monitoring with expert-led incident analysis and containment. Take a look at: 24/7/365 Managed Detection and Response Incident Response Retainers Penetration Testing and Red Teaming Cloud & modern IT risk Do you use public cloud services? Are you confident in how they’re secured? How do you manage and secure user devices remotely? What vendors are you currently relying on — and are they right for your risk profile? How do you secure your network beyond the firewall? Our advice: Extend visibility beyond the traditional perimeter by applying cloud-native monitoring, endpoint telemetry, and policy-based access control. Take a look at: Cloud Security Assessments Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) People, process & planning How are your users trained to detect attacks such as phishing? Do you have access to expert help in a crisis? What cyber expertise exists in-house — is there a dedicated security leader? How do you create a positive security culture, not just rules? What threats are most relevant to your industry? Are you meeting required regulations and compliance standards? Our advice: Build better situational awareness by aligning people and processes with continuous monitoring and clearly defined escalation paths. Take a look at: Security Awareness Training Virtual CISO Services Compliance and Risk Consulting And a bonus question, with potentially the most worrying answer of all… What would a breach cost your business — financially and operationally? Putting it all together While individual solutions can address specific security challenges, working with a trusted managed services and security partner ensures cohesive, round-the-clock support across every aspect of your cyber security posture — delivering greater efficiency, resilience, and long-term value. We work with IT and security leaders across all sectors to assess risk, build resilient cyber strategies, and deliver comprehensive protection that scales with your business. From real-world penetration testing to 24/7/365 threat detection, cloud security, and expert consultancy, we’re your trusted partner in securing the ‘now’ — and preparing for what’s next.

Placeholder thumbnail

Migrating legacy on-premises PBX to the cloud: The tide has turned [whitepaper]

Cloud is the clear choice for business communications Industry watchers and pundits all agree that in the cloud-versus-premises PBX debate, the cloud has won. Cloud-based “as a service” solutions are taking off as companies look to the cloud for their unified communications (UC), collaboration, and contact centre needs.

Placeholder thumbnail

7 benefits of moving from an on-premises PBX to the cloud [whitepaper]

Tipping points: Factors typically driving the transition from a legacy PBX to cloud VoIP Essential business apps are now born in the cloud. Whether you have a CRM solution, something for HR, or simple file storage, it’s probably in the cloud. But for any number of reasons – not the least of which is the relatively large investment required for a new PBX – many businesses have delayed upgrading their PBX and moving it to the cloud. Consequently, you may be living with a communications system that lacks the capabilities and flexibility to support rapid growth or business agility. Or you may be dealing with the worry that you are literally one ageing component away from complete failure of your company’s business communications... Whatever your current situation, this paper provides useful insight, including understanding the factors typically driving the transition from a legacy PBX to cloud VoIP and factors to consider when selecting a communications provider before drilling down into each of the 7 key advantages of moving to a cloud communications system…

Placeholder thumbnail

Microsoft 365 by Wavenet - video

Microsoft 365 is a comprehensive cloud-based subscription service that integrates collaboration, communication, and productivity tools for enterprises, supported by various management and compliance services. Microsoft 365 brings together best-in class productivity apps with powerful cloud services, device management, and advanced security in one, connected experience. Once used to its full potential, Microsoft 365 can speed up processes, reduce costs, save time and make compliance easier. But its constant updates and complexity often get in the way. That’s where we help — with nine practical ways to get more value from Microsoft 365, from buying and configuring it to improving security, collaboration and everyday use. Watch our 3 minute video below, to find out how…

Close up of a server stack with flashing lights

3 reasons why reliable network infrastructure is the backbone of digital transformation

Reliable network infrastructure is the foundation of any successful digital transformation. In this short video, Tom Harris explains how strong connectivity supports secure operations, enables remote work, and gives businesses the flexibility to scale and innovate. From improved data protection to cloud readiness, learn why getting your network right is essential for long-term growth.