Digital Voice and the PSTN switch-off explained
This is the biggest change to UK telecoms in decades. If you've had a landline for years, here's what it means for you.
The short answer
The old copper telephone network (PSTN) is being switched off by 2027. Home phones now run over broadband — same number, same handset in most cases, just a different socket.
What is PSTN?
PSTN is the analogue phone network that's carried voices over copper wires since the 1800s. It's expensive to maintain and being retired.
What replaces it?
Digital Voice — your phone connects to a small adapter on your broadband router. Voice calls travel over the internet.
What stays the same
Your phone number. Your handset (usually). Ability to call any UK or international number. Emergency calls to 999.
What changes
You need broadband to make calls. In a power cut, a battery back-up or mobile phone is needed for emergencies. Certain older alarms, telecare pendants and PDQ machines may need upgrading.
FAQs
Next step
Find out what's available at your address, or talk to a human about your setup.