The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the UK’s original copper wire telephone infrastructure. It has existed in various forms since the 19th century and has been the backbone of landline telephone communications for over 100 years. BT Openreach – the infrastructure arm of BT Group – operates the majority of the PSTN.
Openreach has confirmed the PSTN will be fully withdrawn by January 2027. This is part of a broader programme to migrate the UK’s telephone infrastructure to fully digital (IP-based) delivery. BT’s replacement service for residential users is called Digital Voice, delivered over fibre broadband.
The PSTN closure does not just affect telephone calls. Many devices use PSTN lines for purposes other than voice conversations. The affected categories include:
BS EN 81-28:2018 (Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts – Rescue of persons in stalled lifts) requires a two-way communication system capable of contacting a rescue service from the lift car. Most existing lift installations use an analogue PSTN line to deliver this.
When the PSTN line is withdrawn, the lift’s emergency communication system will fail. Lift owners and maintenance companies have three main options:
Cellular VoLTE is frequently the preferred solution because it requires no fixed-line infrastructure, can be installed in existing lift shafts without significant cabling work, and provides a single SIM-managed connectivity path.
NSI and SSAIB registered intruder alarm systems typically use a PSTN dialler to signal alarm activations to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). These must be replaced or upgraded before January 2027. Options include IP signalling (Dualcom, CSL, etc.) or, where network connectivity is limited, a cellular voice path via VoLTE.
Lift phones, alarm diallers, fire panels – we can source the right SIM product provisioned for IMS voice. Tell us the device and location.