ISDN switch off, the myths and lies

The BT ISDN and PSTN switch-off has sparked a wave of confusion and misinformation. From exaggerated deadlines to misconceptions about the costs and complexity of transitioning, many businesses are struggling to separate fact from fiction. With the clock ticking down to the deadline, it’s crucial to cut through the noise and understand the reality behind this digital transformation.

In this article, we’ll address the most common myths and outright lies surrounding the switch-off, clarify what it truly means for your business, and provide actionable insights to help you navigate the change with confidence. Whether you’re worried about downtime, unsure of the alternatives, or just overwhelmed by the tech jargon, we’ve got you covered. Let’s set the record straight and prepare for a future-proof communications system.

Identifying what is a lie surrounding the ISDN switch-off will help you make informed decisions on what to do next. With BT now phasing out ISDN, knowing your ISDN alternatives and what you should, or shouldn’t be listening to is important.

Myth: It will soon be illegal to use ISDN/PSTN lines
Yes, some telecoms providers have been saying this – utter rubbish, of course, it’s not going to be illegal!

Myth: ISDN prices are going to drastically increase
We have heard from some clients that opportunist telecoms companies are saying that ISDN prices will skyrocket.  We are a BT Openreach partner and there is no indication that prices will suddenly rocket – however we are seeing prices increase for these legacy services as skills are depleted.

Myth: It will suddenly stop working without warning
The BT network switch off will be phased and plenty out with plenty of warning.  However, the same cannot be said for your legacy telephone system – that could stop working at any time – and even that’s not BT’s fault!

Myth: Cloud-based technology is less reliable than ISDN/PSTN
As far as ISDN alternatives go, PSTN is undoubtedly robust and reliable, and rarely breaks, and cloud-based technology has moved on in leaps and bounds and is now incredibly resilient.

Myth: It will take ages to migrate between systems
Any business with experience setting up or upgrading a traditional phone system will be wary of migrating to cloud technology. Some may have bad memories of re-programming call routes, allocating extensions, and setting up hunt groups across the board while calls go astray. This is much simpler these days, with all the configuration and settings being applied before you migrate – it’s pretty simple and seamless now.

Myth: Switching to Cloud Phone will be expensive
The hardware costs of a traditional phone system represent a substantial capital investment; many businesses fear the worst when it comes to switching. Plus compared to ISDN costs, cloud is usually cheaper as your calls are included.

Myth: You need to change your hardware immediately.
This is a famous myth because cloud technology and on-premises systems are very different. Still, it may be possible to replace your existing ISDN and PSTN lines with SIP trunks and continue to use your existing telephone hardware while benefitting from savings on calls.

Cloud Phone is financially and strategically beneficial for businesses, and time is running out for the legacy ISDN/PSTN network. You will be expected to find an ISDN alternative telephony solution for your business by 2025, so don’t get left behind – the overall number of cloud telephony users is forecast to double by the deadline, so avoid delay and arrange a call with one of our technical experts today.

Reality: You have until 2025 to make the switch
Well nearly! We wouldn’t recommend you leave it to the very last minute.BT Openreach skills are diminishing as BT begin phasing out ISDN, as they are not investing in legacy technology, so if you are still using ISDN then you should be evaluating your options and planning to migrate in the next 12-24 months.

Reality: SIP/VoIP/Cloud technology is now well established and reliable Call quality is crystal clear if you have a suitable broadband connection – in remote areas with poor Internet access, you can install voice-optimised circuits which guarantee voice quality for a certain number of lines, but this is rarely necessary.

Reality: The switch to Cloud Phone or SIP is rapid and painless
Porting numbers from your existing provider typically takes about 2 weeks, but once complete, the transition from the old system to the new takes just a few minutes. If your old handsets are not IP compatible, these will have to be replaced. However, you can run both side-by-side for a brief time if necessary. You can continue to make and receive calls without interruption, and you’ll never have to get an engineer out to install a line ever again. In the case of Cloud Phone from easyNetworks, we can set up the whole platform for you or show you how to use the intuitive web portal that controls every aspect of the system.

Reality: easyNetworks provides Cloud Phone for £10 per user per month
One of the enormous pros of a Cloud Phone system is that all call costs to UK landlines and UK mobiles are included, and there are no line rental, maintenance, or upgrade fees. However, you will need a suitable internet connection.

Reality: You may be able to use existing hardware
Depending on which system you switch to; you might be able to use your existing hardware – only migrate when you’re ready to upgrade your hardware.

We’re technical experts, not salespeople, so we offer honest advice along with fair, transparent pricing. When you contact us to migrate your phone system, we will carry out a thorough audit and advise you on what you need and how to save money. You can rely on us to create a plan that suits you, even if that means offering you fewer lines!

When you are ready for a chat, call us directly, or arrange a call with a technical expert.