The UK’s traditional landline network is coming to an end. By 2026, all businesses still relying on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will lose service as the country completes its transition to digital communications. This change affects every business, from small local firms to large organisations, and if you haven’t yet made the move to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), now is the time to act.
At Edmondson’s, we’ve been helping businesses across Yorkshire and the UK prepare for this change, ensuring a smooth transition to modern, cloud-based phone systems that are faster, more reliable, and built for the future.
Why Are Landlines Being Switched Off?
BT Openreach announced that the UK’s traditional copper-based landline network will be completely retired by 2026. This move comes as part of a nationwide digital upgrade designed to improve efficiency and reliability across all communication services.
The old PSTN infrastructure is outdated and expensive to maintain, especially when compared to newer, internet-based systems. By moving everything to digital, the UK aims to create a more unified, faster, and future-proof communications network that supports modern technology like video conferencing, remote working, and smart devices.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
If your business still uses a traditional landline phone system, it will stop working once the switch-off is complete. This includes your main phone lines, fax machines, and even older alarm systems that rely on copper connections.
Without a plan in place, you could lose phone connectivity entirely, which can disrupt operations, customer service, and internal communication.
That’s why the government and Openreach are encouraging all UK businesses to switch to VoIP before December 2025. Making the change early means your systems will be fully operational and tested before the old network is permanently shut down.
The Benefits of Switching to VoIP
Upgrading to VoIP isn’t just about compliance with the switch-off, it’s an opportunity to improve how your business communicates.
VoIP uses your internet connection to make and receive calls, giving you more flexibility and control over your communications. Here’s what makes it so valuable:
1. Lower Costs
VoIP systems often reduce monthly phone bills, as calls are made via the internet instead of traditional phone lines. International and long-distance calls become far more affordable.
2. Scalability
Whether you’re adding new team members or opening new offices, VoIP grows with your business. You can add users, numbers, or devices in just a few clicks.
3. Remote and Hybrid Working
With VoIP, your business phone number can be accessed from anywhere. Employees can make and receive calls using mobile apps, laptops, or VoIP-enabled devices, keeping everyone connected wherever they work.
4. Advanced Features
From voicemail-to-email and call forwarding to CRM integration and video conferencing, VoIP offers features that traditional landlines can’t.
How Edmondson’s Can Help
At Edmondson’s, we’ve already helped many businesses across Yorkshire make the switch from traditional phone lines to modern VoIP systems. Our team handles everything, from system design and installation to training and ongoing support.
We offer trusted VoIP solutions powered by leading providers like 3CX and Gamma, ensuring your communication setup is secure, reliable, and future-ready.
Our process is simple:
- Assessment – We review your existing phone system and connectivity.
- Recommendation – We propose the best VoIP solution based on your business size and communication needs.
- Implementation – Our engineers handle the installation and setup with minimal disruption.
- Support – Once live, we offer ongoing technical support to keep everything running smoothly.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The mid 2026 deadline may seem far off, but transitioning to VoIP can take time, especially if you need to replace multiple lines or update internal systems. By acting early, you’ll avoid last-minute disruption and ensure your business is ready well before the switch-off date.
If your business is still running on a traditional phone system, it’s important to make the move now. Edmondson’s can help you make the transition quickly and easily, giving you a system that not only keeps your business connected but also improves efficiency and customer communication.
Are You Already Using VoIP?
If you’re an existing Edmondson’s client, we can help confirm whether your current setup is VoIP-ready. Some older systems may still be partially dependent on traditional lines, so we’re currently reviewing all accounts to ensure everyone is fully prepared ahead of the switch-off.
If you’re unsure whether your business is using VoIP, get in touch with our team today. We’ll check your setup, provide recommendations if needed, and help you move to a modern, future-proof phone system.
Get Ready for the Future of Communication
The UK landline switch-off marks a major step forward for digital business communications. With VoIP, your business gains flexibility, scalability, and reliability that traditional systems simply can’t offer.
At Edmondson’s, we’re here to make your move to VoIP effortless and secure. Whether you need a new system or want to confirm your existing one is ready, our experts are just a call away.
Contact Edmondson’s today to schedule your VoIP review and ensure your business stays connected beyond 2025.
