BT Wholesale is stopping the purchase of new ISDN and PSTN circuits. This is the first step toward an eventual shut down of these telephone systems in 2025.
The end of ISDN will force organisations currently utilising ISDN to move entirely to VoIP telecoms solutions before 2025. At Carden Telecoms we are encouraging our customers to stay ahead of the curve by switching to a VoIP phone system.
What Are ISDN And PSTN?
The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) are the circuits used by many of us when we speak on the phone. PSTN is the older of the two technologies. It is functionally similar to the original phone circuits of the early 20th century. In a PTSN circuit, analogue voice signals are transmitted over switched circuit copper lines.
ISDN was one of the first widespread attempts to replace PSTN, with data and voice transmitted over digital lines. While impressive in its day, fibre broadband, LTE and 5G have quickly outpaced its capabilities. These newer technologies allow advanced telecoms functions like video calling and unified communication.
So, What Comes Next?
By 2025 all public and commercial PSTN and ISDN circuits must be usurped by VoIP (voice over internet protocol) systems. These systems can be run either on dedicated on-site servers or hosted remotely in the cloud.
Instead of running on PSTN or ISDN lines, on-premises VoIP systems run over SIP trunks – virtual phone lines which use your internet connection.
A hosted system is delivered through your existing internet connection and has no need for specialist hardware (other than phone handsets), engineers or dedicated phone lines.
Why is BT No Longer Providing ISDN and PSTN Circuits?
Maintaining legacy telecoms networks is extremely expensive. BT is attempting to keep up with modern innovation while giving the public and companies time to prepare for the switch-off.
What Is The Best Alternative To ISDN?
VoIP
Across this site, you will find details of various VoIP solutions for modern enterprise telecoms. The type of phone system required will be different depending on the size and complexity of your organisation.
VoIP is a technology which transfers audio over the internet. If you have used software like Zoom or Skype, you have already used VoIP. There are business VoIP solutions which have more enterprise features.
For example, a small company that is rapidly expanding would be best served by a scalable, cloud-hosted VoIP solution. Larger companies may be better off moving their VoIP systems in-house.
Get In Touch
Our account managers are experts in finding the right telecoms solution for each client. Our account managers have experience with a wide variety of businesses, from start-ups to international corporations. Speak to us today and our team help you cost effectively transition to a VoIP environment.
