Ready or not, the PSTN switch-off is happening in 2025. And with a stop-sell order in place to begin this September its importance you find the right solution for your business. In this blog we provide an in-depth explanation of the connectivity and voice options available.
PSTN Replacements: Internet connectivity options
When it comes to PSTN replacement for connectivity, your business will have one of two main options: SoGEA and FTTP. These services will completely replace your existing PSTN connectivity.
What is SoGEA broadband?
SoGEA, or Single Order Generic Ethernet Access, is a data only service. This allows businesses to have a broadband connection without a traditional phone line, and will replace the traditional ‘broadband’ network.
This service splits voice and data services, meaning internet services are delivered directly over an Ethernet connection; simplifying the set-up process and eliminating the need for multiple service providers or complex installations.
By adopting SoGEA, users can enjoy faster, more reliable internet connections, and more flexibility in the choice of service provider.
Due to the limited bandwidth of SoGEA Broadband, this is more suited to smaller businesses. However, there are different bandwidth options to choose from to suit your needs.
What is FTTP?
FTTP, otherwise known as Fibre to the Premises, are fibre optic cables that connect your premises directly to the exchange, delivering data at extremely fast speeds and with high reliability. This will replace traditional fibre broadband.
Unlike the traditional copper-based networks that rely on electrical signals, FTTP transmits light signals through thin strands of glass or plastic fibres, enabling significantly faster data transfer rates and the ability to transmit large amounts of data over long distances without degradation.
FTTP allows businesses to maximise their internet usage, offering up to 1 GBPS connectivity, and is up to ten times faster than the average home broadband connection. This option will provide businesses with better quality video calls, faster internet speeds, and more reliable connections.
Currently, FTTP is still in a roll-out phase across the UK and is not yet available everywhere, however this is the recommended option from most businesses where available.
At M247, our team can help you find your perfect connectivity solution with a flexible contract. To find out more, get in touch with a member of our team.
Will I get to choose my business’ PSTN replacement?
Yes, you can choose what your business installs as a replacement to PSTN. Depending on your business needs and availability, you can choose between SoGEA broadband and FTTP fibre broadband. To transition in line with the PSTN switch off, it’s important to start your transition now and look at the available replacement options. If not, your business could be at risk of having no connectivity solution at all.
PSTN Replacement Services: Voice Connectivity Options
As well as choosing your PSTN replacement service, you will have a choice on voice connectivity options. These options are VoIP, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), and Hosted Voice.
What is VoIP?
VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a like-for-like phone service that runs over the internet. It converts voice into digital data packets and transmits them over an IP network. At the receiving end, the packets are converted back into audio signals for the recipient to hear. This allows for real-time voice and video communication.
When compared to the PSTN, VoIP offers businesses more flexibility. Users can make and receive calls from various devices, including smartphones, computers, or IP phones. This mobility allows users to stay connected regardless of their location, as long as they have an internet connection.
Want to find out more about how we can help you create a bespoke VoIP solution? Get in touch with our team today.
What is SIP trunking?
SIP trunking, or Session Initiation Protocol Trunking, is a technology that enables the connection of a business’s private branch exchange (PBX) phone system to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using an internet connection instead of traditional phone lines.
With the PSTN switch-off, telecommunication networks are expected to transition to all-IP (Internet Protocol) networks. SIP trunking aligns perfectly with this transition as it is already based on IP technology.
SIP encompasses all VoIP connectivity, as well as other types of unified communication, including:
- Instant messaging services
- Video calls
- Call recording
What is Hosted Voice?
Hosted Voice is a type of telephone service where the hardware and infrastructure for the phone system are maintained and managed by a third-party service provider, rather than being maintained on-premises.
The provider ‘hosts’ the system in the Cloud, allowing customers to make and receive calls via the internet. This eliminates the need for expensive Private Branch Exchange (PBX) hardware and reduces maintenance costs by allowing laptops and smartphones to become work phones with the right applications downloaded.
Additionally, hosted voice often provides features such as virtual numbers, call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and more through a web-based portal. As this service is cloud-based, this allows people to take calls anywhere, enabling seamless remote working.
Unsure which voice solution is best for your business? Get in touch with our team and discover what your options are.
Finding the perfect PSTN replacement provider for your business
A good PSTN replacement provider should offer flexible connectivity solutions, be equipped to provide ongoing support, and perform regular audits to ensure your business’s communication needs are being met. They should offer VoIP as a standard service and understand that technology is constantly evolving, allowing them to adapt and provide the best performance and reliability for their clients. Acting as a long-term partner, continuously working with you to optimise your communication system and ensuring your success.
To find the best solution for your business it’s important to research and compare different providers, compare options, and ensure you have a full view of what is needed to ensure your business is future-proofed.
Prepare for the PSTN Switch-Off with M247
Our team can create bespoke, flexible packages to make your PSTN transition seamless. To find out more about our services and how we can help your business, get in touch with our team now.
