In 2015 BT announced that ISDN networks for businesses will be switched off. The phase-out starts from next year, with completion expected to be by 2025. Are you ready for it?
Why is it being phased out?
ISDN was the fastest internet access available at one time and it was the primary connection source of communication amongst UK businesses. However, the advancement of technology has meant that it just can’t keep up with other internet access connections such as DSL and WAN in a cost-effective way so it’s now outdated!
What does this mean for my business?
The ISDN phase-out means you really must consider the set up you use to communicate both internally and externally. This is as an opportunity for you to look at every area of your business and how it can be improved.
What is the alternative?
We will replace old ISDN lines with VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) systems. If you’ve ever used Skype, Zoom, Facetime or WhatsApp to speak to family, friends or colleagues, then you’ve used a VOIP system.
The benefits of VOIP are significant. It is much more flexible, great for disaster recovery and back up as you can access the number wherever you have internet access (as opposed to it just being on one site). VOIP systems are more feature rich, are great for multisite businesses as it means you can have a telephone number presence in a geographic location without having to have an office there, plus here are many more benefits.
What’s next?
There’s five years to complete the phase out so why should you be thinking about this now? Being prepared early, means giving your business the best opportunity to implement an effective solution. You don’t want to be in a position of not knowing how you’ll continue communications internally and externally when the switch off is imminent. Explore your opportunities now by ordering a full review of your communications solutions and making a plan of action for a seamless switch over. The last thing you want is for this to affect your business.
Let us help you
To find out how we can help review, design, deliver and support you through this huge change, get in touch with us today on 0300 020 000
