#FullFibreRollout #DigitalTransformation #BusinessCommunications

The digital revolution is upon us, and it’s transforming the way we communicate. The UK is at the forefront of this transformation, with the full fibre rollout in full swing, thanks to Openreach and its partners.

In 2018, Openreach announced the closure of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by 2025. The PSTN, which has been the backbone of the fixed-line telephone network since the late 1800s, is being replaced by new, exciting digital technologies.

While 2025 might seem far off, some areas of the UK will feel the impact of the PSTN closure much sooner. In these areas, full-fibre connectivity will be readily available, but products that use the PSTN, including analogue and ISDN lines, will be withdrawn.

Salisbury was the first city to enter a ‘stop sell’ on 1st December 2020. This means that businesses in Salisbury are no longer able to order any new Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) services, including analogue or ISDN phone lines. However, over 22,000 businesses and homes in Salisbury are now full fibre enabled, making it a leader in fibre availability.

The ‘stop sell’ is not limited to Salisbury. Multiple towns and cities have already been impacted, and a UK-wide restriction on WLR products will follow in September 2023. Therefore, it’s crucial for businesses to start considering migration options.

‘Stop sell’ is a term used by Openreach to describe an area where it has stopped the sale of certain products. It affects not only the sale of new supply but also restricts current WLR services. However, it’s different from a product withdrawal. Customers within a ‘stop sell’ area can continue to use the product until it is eventually withdrawn.

Businesses using ISDN or analogue lines will need to migrate to SIP Trunking or VoIP solutions. The rollout of full fibre is expected to transform business communications across the UK and boost productivity by £59 billion every year.

If you’re in a ‘stop sell’ area, don’t worry! Experts are available to talk you through your options and explain the process. They can also advise on the impact on other equipment or services the switch-off might have and suggest new products to help businesses migrate through the changes.

The digital transformation is an exciting time for businesses. It’s a chance to embrace new technologies and improve communication. So, let’s get ready for the future.

Contact us today to upgrade your outdated phone systems.

#DigitalFuture #BusinessReady #FullFibreUK