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What is the PSTN Switch-off?

As of the 5th September 2023, BT Openreach initiated a national stop-sell of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which was a significant milestone in the transition to newer technologies. This marked the beginning of the phase-out process, with the full PSTN switch-off scheduled for 2025.

The stop-sell means that as of the 5th September 2023, BT Openreach are no longer offering new PSTN-based services. It’s important to understand that you can continue using pre-existing legacy PSTN services until the complete switch-off in 2025. However, during this period, you will not be able to purchase any new services or modify any existing services that rely on ISDN or PSTN.

So what is the alternative?

In response to these changes, many businesses are adopting Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which enables phone calls and data transmission over an internet connection, making this change as an opportunity to move to an all digital solution and future proof their business.

The decommissioning of PSTN lines is a once in a lifetime technological shift, however switching doesn’t have to be scary, but planning is crucial. If you have questions, Gamma is here to help.

The upcoming PSTN Switch-off is a big step in the telecom industry. Whether you run a small business or a big one, Gamma has what you need. We provide various products like SoGEA, FTTP, Mobile, Phoneline+, Horizon, and Microsoft Teams Phone for broadband and business phone solutions. These not only keep your business connected during the switch but also help future-proof your communication setup, keeping your business ahead in the digital age.

Customers should know they have a choice during the PSTN Switch-off to avoid accepting a transition from their existing provider without questions or consideration of potentially better and cheaper alternatives.

Benefits of VoIP

VoIP is revolutionising the way we communicate, offering cost-effective, versatile, and feature-rich solutions for businesses. As the transition away from traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) gathers pace, VoIP is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of how we communicate in a world increasingly reliant on internet connectivity. Here are some benefits of upgrading your services to VoIP:

Keeping your phone number

When transitioning from traditional landlines to VoIP, your business has the option to keep your existing phone number. Helping businesses maintain their established brand and relationships while benefiting from VoIP technology.

Cost Savings

VoIP solutions offers significantly lower rates for local, national, and international calls compared to traditional phone services. VoIP also eliminates the need for costly on-premises hardware, leading to significant cost reductions.

Great scalability and flexibility

VoIP solutions can be accessed from a variety of devices, which means you won’t be tied to a desk phone – take calls anytime, anywhere. VoIP can easily scale up or down to accommodate your business’s growth or to help with busy seasons.

Enhanced Productivity

VoIP systems are ideal for flexible working, providing consistent communication regardless of locations and offers a wide range of collaboration tools such as the advanced features to enhance productivity.

Advanced Features

VoIP offers a wide range of advanced features and capabilities beyond phone calling, including; Video Calling, File Sharing, Instant Messaging, Advanced Call Routing, Call Recording, Auto Attendant and CRM integration and more.

Reliability and Business Continuity

VoIP systems have built-in failover and business continuity options, ensuring that your communications are reliable even in the event of network disruptions.