Posts about Switch-off

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There's more to the PSTN switch-off than meets the eye

What is the PSTN switch-off? The impending PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) switch-off isn’t just about replacing traditional lines. It’s a seismic shift that impacts far more than most realise – and if you’re not prepared, it could cost your business dearly. Most companies are aware that traditional analogue lines and ISDN systems for calls and broadband are being phased out by January 2027. But what many don’t see is the vast ripple effect of this transition – touching everything from lifts to life-critical systems, cash machines, and even traffic lights. What does the PSTN switch-off mean in simple terms? When it comes to the PSTN switch-off, it’s easy to think that it is just about phone lines. But the truth is, it’s much more complex. Here is what’s at stake: Life-saving systems: fire alarms, major medical and safety devices, emergency alarms in care homes, emergency pendants, telemetry services monitoring boiler rooms, dams, sluice gates, and substations. Public infrastructure: traffic lights, bus stops, speed cameras, and traffic management systems. Business-critical devices: PDQ and payment terminals, ATMS, CCTV, video surveillance, door entry, security systems, and remote access points. Transport & emergency services: roadside AA/RAC recovery alerts and devices, and emergency phone lines in hazardous environments. Telecommunications & internet: leased lines, private networking facilities, dial-up lines, broadband DSL services, and international leased lines. Community & public services: emergency teams and vehicles, payphones, modems, industrial control, public alerts, and more. If every one of these vital systems suddenly loses connectivity – chaos, downtime, and danger could follow. The possible business impact of the PSTN switch-off could be financial losses, public safety risks and erosion of customer trust. The PSTN switch-off is a vital business resilience issue – the time to act is now Unlike many providers who may focus on the obvious, we see what others miss. Our team dives beneath the surface, examining your entire network ecosystem to identify what’s at risk when the PSTN switches off. We have mapped out the hidden web of critical systems that rely on legacy infrastructure – and yes, we’ve prepared solutions for each one. Check out our iceberg infographic to see a quick glance of the PSTN switch-off picture. The switch-off is just the tip of the iceberg. Without planning, your operations could face catastrophic disruption. Don’t let your business be caught unaware. Reach out today for an in-depth assessment, and explore solutions tailored to your critical systems. Because when it comes to the PSTN switch-off, we see beyond the iceberg – and help your business stay afloat. Download the iceberg infographic here Download now

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What will happen to businesses when landlines go digital?

Preparing your business for the WLR switch-off and ensuring a smooth transition Most businesses currently rely on traditional analogue lines, ISDN, or broadband connected through Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) – the infrastructure powering your calls, data, security systems, and more. But the truth is, the WLR switch-off is on the horizon – and it’s affecting businesses in ways they might not be expecting. It’s not just about telephony! Do you really know what your WLR lines are powering? And what your options are? The countdown is on - Openreach’s deadline to shut down traditional analogue phone lines, ISDN, broadband, and other vital WLR-connected services is January 2027 (or even sooner). If you’re not fully prepared, your business could face serious disruption: Your phones may stop ringing, cutting off essential customer contact Lifts and critical facilities could cease functioning Broadband and internet services might go offline unexpectedly Your customers’ access to your services could be lost What exactly are your WLR lines powering? Many businesses don’t realise just how much relies on their existing WLR lines and traditional networks. The PSTN and WLR include more than just voice calls; they power card payment terminals, security alarms, lift controls, entry systems, CCTV, emergency systems, and many other critical business operations. Without a clear understanding of which lines are used for what, you risk missing vital services during the switch-over. Managing large estates or multiple sites makes this even trickier – you may be unaware of what lines you have, what they’re used for, where they’re located, or what they are connected to, creating a significant business risk. What do you do when landlines go digital? Don’t wait until disruption strikes. The earlier you identify your current setup and plan your migration, the smoother and more secure your transition will be. Download our free WLR Audit Factsheet – a straightforward guide to show you how we can help. Stay ahead of the clock. Take control now to ensure your business’s ongoing communications and critical services remain unaffected. Visit wavenet.co.uk/pstn-switch-off  for more information.  Download the WLR Audit Factsheet here Download now

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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. Download the full PSTN switch-off planning tool here Download now

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