What you need to know – The technology that we currently use to make landline phone calls is due to be upgraded over the next few years. But what does this mean for you as a landline customer?
Landline phone calls have traditionally been delivered over the old telephone network – this is known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
BT has taken the decision to retire the PSTN by December 2025 and other providers plan to follow a broadly similar timescale. This means that in future, landline calls will be delivered over digital technology called Voice over Broadband or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which uses your broadband connection.
Why is this happening- The equipment used in the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) was developed and installed in the UK in the 1980s and is becoming harder and more expensive to maintain. At the same time, telecoms providers under government direction are investing in new systems and networks that will connect the UK with full-fibre technology. So, broadband and phone companies have decided to switch off the old network and deliver landline calls over Broadband or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), to make sure that our phone services can continue into the future.
When is this happening – RGC have already started the migration to VoIP for some customers, such as customers who have upgraded their phone and broadband packages, or who have moved offices. We will continue to contact all our customers to let them know when the process to migrate from their old landline systems to our new telephone service will be available.
What do I need to do – Contact RGC for advice, we will tell you when your telephone service is changing and what is available to in your area, to enable you to decide to change your telephone service.
Once a phone service is moved from PSTN to Voice over Broadband or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), the system will generally work in the same way as it always has with a lot more features, it will just be connected to the broadband router instead of into the phone sockets that you currently have on your wall. If you need any new equipment – for example, a new router – or if you need a new broadband service installed, RGC will arrange that for you. It’s important you talk to your provider about how the service will work for you and if you’re not happy please don’t hesitate to come back to RGC we will be more than happy to explain the advantages of the new solution in plain English.
You must pay special attention as this change will affect other devices that rely on a phone line, such as some fire and burglar alarm systems. So, you should mention those devices to RGC and check if these need to be replaced or reconfigured to continue working.
Do I need to Have Broadband to get the new service – Once the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is switched off, customers who wish to continue having a landline phone, and do not already have broadband, they will need to have a suitable connection to the internet this can be achieved with a broadband service or a dedicated Circuit direct to the customers premises. RGC have a range of options for customers in this situation.
Will VoIP phones work in a power cut – Unlike traditional phones, a phone connected to a broadband router will not work in a power cut, as the router gets its power from the mains.
If you rely on your landline – for example, you don’t have a mobile phone, you’re unable to use a mobile phone or you don’t have mobile signal inside your premises – RGC will make sure you are able to contact the emergency services during a power cut. This could be in the form of battery back-up or Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) so your router will continue to work, or if you have a mobile you can have a dedicated App installed that is a replica of the phone on your desk that will allow you to stay connected and always have all features at your fingertips if your logged into it.
How can I find out more – If you have any queries or concerns about the migration to Voice over Broadband or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), technology, contact RGC.