Industry News
What Is the 2027 Landline Switch Off?
The 2027 landline switch off refers to the closure of the UK’s traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). By 31 January 2027, analogue landlines that rely on copper phone lines will stop working. Phone services will move to digital technology that operates over broadband connections instead.
This change applies across the entire United Kingdom and affects homes, small businesses and any equipment connected to a traditional phone line.
Key Takeaways
What is being switched off?
The network being retired is called the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). It is the copper-based system that has supported UK landlines for decades.
This infrastructure is ageing and increasingly expensive to maintain. Replacement parts are difficult to source, and faults have become more frequent in recent years.
From September 2023, telecom providers stopped selling new analogue landline services. The transition to digital services is already underway.
When will landlines stop working?
All traditional PSTN services must be withdrawn by 31 January 2027.
Migration is happening in phases. Many customers have already moved to digital phone services.
As of late 2024, around 5.2 million UK households, representing roughly 27% of landline users, were still using PSTN lines. Providers are continuing to contact customers to arrange upgrades.
More than half of digital migrations have been initiated by providers rather than requested by customers.
Why are UK landlines changing?
The PSTN is reaching the end of its life
Copper-based telephone infrastructure dates back decades. Maintaining it has become increasingly complex and costly.
Fewer people rely on fixed voice services
Traditional call volumes have declined year on year as more people use mobile phones and internet-based services.
The UK is ready for digital services
Fixed broadband coverage now exceeds 97% of UK premises, and full fibre availability has passed 50% of properties. This allows phone services to operate reliably over broadband networks.
What will replace traditional landlines?
Landlines are not disappearing. They are moving to digital.
Digital voice services use broadband connections and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. Instead of plugging into a wall socket linked to copper wiring, phones connect through a broadband router.
For most people, making and receiving calls will feel the same.
What will happen to my landline in 2027?
If you currently use a traditional analogue line:
if you already have broadband, the change may be straightforward. If you do not use broadband, providers are required to identify and support customers during the transition.
Will landline phones work after 2025?
Yes, during the phased migration period.
However, new analogue services are no longer being sold. After 31 January 2027, traditional PSTN-based landlines will no longer operate.
Digital landlines will continue working, provided there is broadband and electrical power.
What is the BT switch off 2027?
The BT switch off refers to BT and Openreach withdrawing PSTN and ISDN services as part of the nationwide 2027 deadline.
This change is not limited to one company. All major UK telecom providers are moving customers to digital networks.
Are BT going to stop landlines?
BT and other providers are stopping analogue copper-based services, not phone services altogether.
Customers will still be able to make and receive calls. The difference is that calls will run over broadband rather than the old copper network.
What about alarms, telecare and emergency access?
Millions of devices rely on PSTN compatibility. These include:
Telecare systems
Fire and security alarms
Payment terminals
Lift emergency lines
Door entry systems
Fax machines
Digital voice services require mains electricity, unlike traditional copper landlines which carried power through the line.
To protect vulnerable customers, providers must offer at least one hour of battery backup during power outages where needed. Emergency access must remain available throughout the transition.
In 2023, some migrations were paused after safety concerns were raised about vulnerable users. Providers have since strengthened procedures to ensure telecare users are not migrated until compatible solutions are in place.
Important: If you use telecare equipment or rely on a landline for emergency access, you should contact your provider for advice.
What if I run a business?
Businesses should review any system that depends on analogue phone lines.
This may include:
- Desk phones
- Card payment machines
- Lift lines
- Alarm systems
- Intercoms
- Broadband connections delivered over PSTN
Because the change applies nationwide, early planning helps reduce disruption.
Broadband-based voice services can also support remote working, integration with digital systems and modern communication tools.
Do I need to take action now?
You do not need to panic.
However, it is sensible to:
1.
Check whether your current line is PSTN-based
2.
Review connected equipment
3. Confirm telecare compatibility if relevant
4. Contact your provider if unsure
The transition is industry-managed, but awareness helps avoid interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions about 2027 landline switch off
Will landlines stop working in 2027?
Yes. Traditional PSTN landlines will be fully withdrawn by 31 January 2027.
Can I keep my landline number?
In most cases, your existing number can be transferred to a digital phone service.
Does this affect the whole UK?
Yes. The 2027 deadline applies across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
What happens during a power cut?
Digital landlines rely on electricity. Vulnerable customers must be offered at least one hour of battery backup where required.
Is the landline switch off the same as the PSTN switch off?
Yes. The 2027 landline switch off refers to the closure of the Public Switched Telephone Network.
Final summary
The 2027 landline switch off is a nationwide move from copper-based telephone infrastructure to digital networks. It does not mean phone services are ending. It means they are changing.
With broadband coverage available to the vast majority of UK premises, the country is largely prepared for the transition.
Understanding the change now allows households and businesses to prepare calmly and confidently before the January 2027 deadline.
