UK landline network will switch off on 31 January 2027

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 17:38 · Archive

The UK's copper-based landline network will be retired on 31 January 2027 with no extension to the deadline.

The UK's legacy landline telephone network will be switched off on 31 January 2027 with no extension to the deadline. Openreach, BT's infrastructure arm which operates the country's largest landline network, has issued a reminder that the copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be retired as planned. The switchover, known as the 'big switch off', moves customers from analogue to digital or internet protocol systems.

Openreach says it has already supported the migration of around 15 million lines off the old copper-based network. However, roughly one million households and businesses across the country remain to upgrade their systems as the deadline approaches. The company notes that the ageing landline network is harder to maintain, more vulnerable to faults and unable to keep up with demands of modern usage.

Customers will not lose their landline service or change their telephone number, the Digital Connectivity Forum has reassured users. In most cases existing handsets will be compatible with the new system. The digital landline will work over a broadband connection, requiring customers to plug their phone into their broadband router instead of the wall socket.

Some customers may need new equipment including a router, adaptor or handset, which can be arranged by providers. Ofcom has advised landline users to speak to their providers to find out if they are affected, particularly those with care alarms, health pendants, security alarms or other connected devices that rely on the telephone line.

James Lilley, Director of All-IP at Openreach, noted that 'the straightforward migrations have largely been completed'. He warned that 'what's left are the complex connections that underpin critical operations, requiring careful planning, supplier coordination, and thorough testing'. Systems including point-of-sale terminals in shops, fire and security alarms, and personal care alarms for elderly and vulnerable people still rely on PSTN connectivity and will need upgrading.

How it is being reported

• The millions of people who face losing their landline phone in digital switchoverBritain is preparing to retire old copper-wire cables and switch to an internet-based network by early 2027The i Paper · 2 Nov, 14:45
• Landline phones to be switched over in less than 100 days - everything you need to knowOfcom has advised landline users to speak to their providers to find out if they are affected by the switchoverThe Independent · 2 Nov, 13:29
• Openreach: UK landline phones will be switched off in 100 days, so make sure your connections are readyOpenreach reminds the legacy phone network is being officially switched off on January 31 2027, with no extensions.TechRadar · 2 Nov, 11:07
• Landline phones will switch off across Britland in 100 days, no extensions – OpenreachLegacy public switched telephone network service is to be retired on January 31, 2027The Register · 1 Nov, 09:04

In this story: Openreach · BT · Ofcom · Digital Connectivity Forum · UK

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