How will the ISDN switch off impact your business?

From lowering costs to more hybrid working options, here’s how the coming ISDN switch off will change businesses for the better.

What is happening and why?

From December 2025, BT Openreach is closing down all ISDN lines – which will basically mean an end to landlines in the UK and the lines most commonly used to make phone calls across the world.

It’s happening as part of a move to shut down thePublic Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) – which ISDN is a part of – because it’s become outdated and been overtaken by newer technologies, such as fibre broadband.

Once the shutdown is complete, a fully digital network will take its place – but it’s a move that will impact all businesses currently using landlines and other PSTN products.

The work is long-overdue. The UK is lagging behind the rest of the world for broadband connectivity, despite increasing its fibre connections by more than 50% in 2020. According to OECD data, Spain, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania and Sweden are among the countries with the best connectivity, with over 70% of coverage.

Here are five ways that it will impact all of our business lives.

1. Intelligent workspaces

Many companies are already rethinking their workspaces. They’re creating collaborative environments designed to inspire and energise teams when they’re on site. With fast and reliable connectivity, people will be able to enjoy a great experience no matter where they work. This means that when supported by the right cutting-edge innovations, after the Great Switch Off, businesses will be able to take employee engagement to the next level – regardless of where everyone is based.

2. Reduced office costs

Voice will become completely digital and delivered over the internet using Voice-over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. VoIP only requires an internet connection to work. This means you’ll be able to say goodbye to costly, old-fashioned analogue phone lines in your offices.

3. Hyperconnectivity

Consider the link between technology and business premises, and the changing needs of people. What can be done to take the hassle out of collaborating with colleagues and customers – and help maintain the chemistry within teams?

The ISDN turn off will see many businesses will benefit from faster networks. This will keep teams tight via hyperconnectivity.

4. Greater efficiency

Post switch-off, call quality will be improved, which can equate to more productivity and efficiency.

5. More, and improved, home working

Hybrid working is here to stay, with a third of UK office workers saying they would quit if they had to return to the office full-time.

The ISDN switch off and subsequent shift to a fully digital network will enable improved video conferencing, file sharing and cloud-based working. This will empower remote and hybrid workforces to communicate and collaborate more efficiently and effectively.

There are several great partners out there who can support with your migration. Be sure to research your options and look for a company who can help make this process a smooth and successful one – readying your business for the future.

For more support, guidance and free 1-2-1 business advice, you can also speak to one of our V-Hub Digital Advisers