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As a leading independent managed service provider, Espria boasts over 25 years of experience supporting business growth and change. Their consultative approach ensures tailored technical and commercial solutions in Cloud, IT, Communications, and Document Solutions. Espria partners with customers to simplify the management and delivery of their business solutions.
UK Businesses Urged to Prepare for ISDN Switch-Off
UK businesses are advised to prepare now and assess how their systems might be impacted by the upcoming Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) switch-off. This transition, which will affect legacy copper-wired communication lines, is part of BT’s shift from analogue to digital technology.
BT announced the discontinuation of ISDN and Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) services in 2015, with a complete switch-off scheduled for 2025. As BT has ceased processing orders for these services, businesses must understand the broader implications, including potential disruptions to services such as alarms, lifts, broadband, and payment systems.
Andy Fung, Communications Solutions Architect at Espria, commented: “ISDN technology, introduced in the late 1980s, is outdated and no longer meets the demands of modern communications. It was costly to maintain and inefficient compared to newer networking systems. The legacy infrastructure cannot support the high-speed, reliable communication needs of today’s businesses.”
Fung highlighted that many UK areas, including Mildenhall and Salisbury, have already experienced the switch-off as part of a test roll-out. Businesses must ensure they do not lose essential communication tools and should prepare for the transition to avoid disruptions.
While many businesses might automatically move from ISDN to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), understanding VoIP’s benefits is crucial:
Cost Efficiency:
VoIP offers a cheaper and faster alternative compared to ISDN. It represents a better investment in communications technology.
Cloud Network:
VoIP provides superior cloud networking speeds and enhanced security, essential for hybrid working environments.
Reliability:
VoIP reduces downtime and enhances connectivity, making it a robust choice over ISDN.
Fung advises businesses to take four preparatory steps to ensure readiness for the January 2025 switch-off:
Audit Connection Systems
Identify all services requiring connection and their scalability. Consider voice services, video conferencing, and essential systems like alarms, door entry systems, and payment terminals. Understanding hybrid and office-based needs will help in evaluating current systems.
Maximise Service Provision
Assess your service needs and ensure VoIP meets your requirements. Evaluate fixed versus mobile networks and ensure ease of use for your specific business needs.
Scrutinise Hardware Needs
Consult with employees about their hardware requirements. Consider options like IP headsets, softphone clients, or a hybrid communications approach.
Embrace Digital Transformation
Upgrade beyond digital phone services. Cloud-based systems offer new ways of working, integrating mobile devices, apps, and providing detailed reporting. These upgrades support flexible and remote working arrangements.
The switch-off deadline is approaching rapidly. Preparing now is essential for businesses to future-proof their operations and ensure continued communication capabilities.
