Transitioning from Analogue to VoIP: A Simple Guide to the Big Switch

If your business is still using traditional landlines, now’s the time to start planning. The UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), the analogue system behind most business phone lines, is being switched off by January 2027.

All analogue and ISDN services will be replaced by digital, internet-based communication systems, commonly known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

This guide explains what’s changing, why it matters, and how your organisation can make a smooth transition.

Analogue lines have served businesses well, but they’re no longer fit for the way we work today. Some of the main challenges include:

• Limited flexibility: You’re tied to physical lines, so hybrid and remote working are difficult.
• Higher maintenance costs: Analogue infrastructure is ageing and expensive to support.
• Difficult to scale: Adding new users or locations can be slow and complex.
• Lack of integration: Modern tools like Microsoft Teams or CRM systems can’t connect easily with analogue setups.

With traditional systems, you’re also missing out on the significant savings and reliability that businesses achieve with VoIP. On average, UK organisations reduce telecom costs by about 30–50% after switching.

While the benefits are clear, some businesses encounter obstacles when transitioning from analogue to VoIP. Common challenges include:

1. Lack of awareness or planning: Many businesses don’t know the PSTN switch-off is coming or how urgent it is.

2. Concerns about cost: Upfront expenses for new hardware, licences, or upgraded internet can feel daunting.

3. Internet connectivity limitations: VoIP relies on stable, high-speed broadband, and poor connections can impact call quality.

4. Internal resistance to change: Employees accustomed to traditional phones may be reluctant to adopt a new system.

5. Technical concerns: Questions about call reliability, latency, uptime, or software integration can slow adoption.

6. Legacy equipment: Older PBX systems or handsets may need replacement for compatibility.

7. Security and compliance worries: Businesses want assurance that data and communications remain secure.

Overcoming these challenges is straightforward with planning, the right guidance, and phased implementation:

• Expert guidance: Work with a telecoms provider, like Agilico, to clarify costs, planning, and technical requirements.
• Phased rollout: Gradually migrating users reduces disruption.
• Connectivity upgrades: Ensure broadband speed and redundancy are sufficient.
• Training and support: Help staff adapt quickly.
• Choosing the right platform: Modern VoIP systems handle number porting, integrations, security, and compliance out of the box.

Once everything’s ready, moving to VoIP is simple.

Most businesses can migrate with minimal downtime and start enjoying benefits straight away.