By 2025, the ISDN switch-off will be a reality so to keep you one step ahead, here’s our short guide on what you need to know.
By 2025, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) will no longer be an option for businesses across the UK.
With the network switching from copper wires to an all-fibre digital network, businesses need to be ready to make the transition otherwise they face the risk of losing connectivity in 2025.
For those who think ahead and plan for the change this will be a seamless transition, however, for others, moving from ISDN to a digital alternative could be a headache if they leave it too late.
At Radius Connect, we are here to provide you with the best advice ahead of the ISDN switch off and how you can make the transition as painless as possible. If you would like to speak to a business adviser at any stage, please get in touch.
What Is ISDN?
ISDN stands for the Integrated Services Digital Network. The system was created as a means to carry data and voice communications over copper-cabled telephone lines.
In its day, this system allowed companies to access and share data faster as well as increased connectivity with faster telephone calls. The increased links with clients and customers meant that ISDN was a popular solution 25 years ago.
Technology has moved on, and a digital, all-fibre alternative is available. This means the 2 million businesses who still use ISDN need to put plans in place to modernise before the switch is turned off for good.
How Will You Be Affected?
In theory, the switch over from ISDN to a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is not as complicated as many business owners fear.
In the years that are ahead, there may be some upheaval as you move from ISDN to VoIP. However, if your current internet connection and telephone hardware can be utilised the transition can be completed in as little as two weeks.
By putting off the move to a cloud-based system, you run the risk of:
Losing business
With many customers only calling a business once to enquire about a product or service, can you afford to miss out?
Rising costs
As the ISDN network is phased out, the price of maintaining and repairing lines such as these will increase. These costs will ultimately be passed onto you.
Less time
The longer you put off the change to VoIP, the less time you will have to plan and prepare for the transition. This means you could miss a vital step or choose the wrong system altogether.
Possible backlogs
As more businesses move to cloud-based systems, you will undoubtedly have to wait longer for a provider to get you connected to your new system.
There is no doubt that businesses will see a small amount of upheaval in the short-term but, in comparison to the alternative, it is best to think and plan ahead.
ISDN Switch Off: Should You Futureproof Now?
The short answer to this question is, ‘Yes’, however, there are some factors you need to consider as you move to a VoIP-based system.
- Where Are You Now? By reviewing what your company has access to now, you will be able to plan what needs to be upgraded. Considering the speed of your current internet as well as your access to cloud-based solutions will be key.
- Where Do You Want To Be? Next, you need to consider where you would like your telecommunications solution to be in a set time – for example, 12 or 24 months. By finding out whether you can access the best VoIP packages in your area or whether you can take advantage of government schemes means your goals can be realistic.
- How Do You Get There? By putting concrete plans in place, you will be able to take steps to move away from ISDN and towards a fibre solution). You may be able to obtain funding towards potential costs, plus you may want to arrange consultations with companies such as Radius Connect to work out what the best options are for your particular business.
By making plans to futureproof your company now, you will stand a much better chance of being prepared and won’t have to wait in the line when hundreds of other companies try to make the switch at the last moment.
What Does The Future Hold?
Just in case you are still undecided about the benefits of moving to a full fibre VOIP solution, the benefits far outweigh the negatives, with advanced options such as remote access to data, collaborative working and flexible working. This might just open up a whole new range of opportunities for your business in 2020 and beyond…
As the move from ISDN gathers pace, there should be multiple advantages for businesses of all sizes. Some of theses advantages include:
- Increased collaborative working
- Video conferencing
- Flexible cloud-based maintenance
- Desktop sharing
- Secure, reliable communications solutions
The future of full fibre VOIP opens up a faster, more collaborative network that promotes increased productivity and flexibility.
For businesses, this can only be a good thing. Just as ISDN provided a revolution in speed and data transfer, migrating your business to a cloud-based VoIP service has the potential to be just as ground-breaking.
At Radius Connect, we are here to provide you with all the advice you need regarding the ISDN switch off. Whether you are a small, medium or large business, we have expert advisors on hand to help you through the transition.