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Switching off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) across the UK

On 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital - so it’s important to switch now.

Why the PSTN is being switched off

The old landline network is ageing, harder to maintain, more vulnerable to faults and no longer meets modern needs. More services now rely on digital connections, so the UK needs a phone system that can support modern homes and businesses. Moving to digital phone lines will help provide you with a more reliable service, better-quality calls and smarter blocking of unwanted calls.

What you need to do now

Don’t wait until the deadline, On 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital.

Call your service provider as soon as possible. They’ll explain what needs to happen, help you choose the right digital option and support you through the switch.

Why acting today matters:

  • You’ll have more time to get everything up and running.
  • You can check any devices connected to your phone line, such as alarms, health pendants, house alarms, CCTV or payment terminals for compatibility, avoiding any last-minute issues before the deadline.
  • If you leave it too late, you risk losing service.

If your service provider has contacted you about switching, don’t ignore it. Transitioning now gives you more time to ask questions and avoid any last-minute issues.

Find out what digital phone lines are

The UK's telephone network is changing

Traditional phone lines are being replaced with digital phone lines across the UK. Instead of plugging into a wall socket, your phone service will usually work through a broadband router.

The change is part of the move away from the old landline network to a more reliable digital system. It affects homes and businesses that still use a traditional phone line.

Full Fibre: supporting the move to digital

Digital phone lines are designed to work with modern broadband services, including Full Fibre where it’s available.

Full Fibre is already available to over 23 million homes and businesses, helping support faster, more reliable connections for the way we live and work today.

Full Fibre offers:

  • Fast connections that can support busy homes and businesses
  • A more reliable service than older copper-based connections
  • Smoother performance for video calls, streaming and other real-time services
  • Enough capacity for multiple connected devices at the same time

Benefits of going digital

Clearer calls

 

Enjoy higher sound quality for everyday conversations

A more reliable service

 

Fewer faults and less disruption than the ageing analogue network

Future-ready connections

 

Designed to work seamlessly with Full Fibre broadband and modern devices

Flexibility for businesses

 

Add new lines or services quickly without needing extra cabling

Stronger resilience

 

Digital networks are less likely to be affected by roadworks or local damage

What happens if you don’t switch in time

After 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital. If you haven’t switched by then, your service may be limited.

You may be moved to the Emergency Voice and Access Continuity (EVAc) service, a temporary emergency voice-only service that keeps basic voice calls working for a limited time, but it may not support the calling features you use today.

If you rely on your landline, have poor mobile signal, use telecare or health devices, or have equipment connected to your phone line it’s important to speak to your service provider as soon as possible.

For most people, the change is likely to be straightforward. Your service provider can help you understand what needs to happen and what option is right for you. 

Find out how to prepare

Government guidance

The UK Government has published advice on the digital phone switchover, including what it means for homes, businesses and essential services.

Read more here: Digital Phone Switchover - GOV.UK

Guidance for your situation

Homeowners and tenants

Find out how the digital phone line switchover affects your home phone service, whether you have broadband or a phone line only. Learn what you need to do before 31 January 2027, how to check if Full Fibre is available at your address, and how your provider can help you make the switch.

Learn more

For Businesses

Understand how the switchover impacts your business phone lines and any analogue-connected equipment such as CCTV, alarms, payment terminals or lift systems. Learn what steps to take to prepare your business, ensure service continuity, and get support from your provider before the January 2027 deadline.

Learn more

FAQ's

  • What date do landlines go digital?

    By 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will be going digital. If you have a traditional phone line, speak to your service provider as soon as possible so you have time to get ready. 

  • Can I refuse moving to digital voice?

    The old network is being switched off, so everyone with a traditional phone line will need to move to a digital option. Your service provider will help you understand what’s available and what you need to do.

  • What will replace landlines in 2027?

    Traditional phone lines will be replaced by digital phone lines. These usually work through a broadband router rather than a wall socket. 

  • What is Emergency Voice Access (EVAc) and how does it work?

    It is a limited temporary service that may keep basic voice calls working if you have not switched in time. It may not support all calling features, so it’s important that you speak to your service provider now and move to the right digital option. 

  • What if there is a power cut?

    Digital phone lines need power to work. If you rely on your landline, have poor mobile signal or use telecare or health devices, tell your service provider so they can make sure you get the right support during the switch and can provide you with battery back-up support. 

  • I don't want broadband. Can I have a phone line only?

    If you have a phone line but don’t have broadband, your service provider will help you find the most suitable digital option for your needs. 

  • What if I can't get Full Fibre?

    Full Fibre is now available to more than 23 million UK homes and businesses. Check availability in your area. If Full Fibre isn't available yet, other digital services can support your phone line. Contact your provider for available options at your address. 

  • What if I live in a block of flats and can't get Full Fibre?

    You'll need landlord or building management permission for installation. Check availability and register your interest - this prompts us to get necessary permissions. If Full Fibre can't be installed, you may be able to add a digital phone line to your existing broadband. Your provider will confirm available options.

  • Will my alarm system work on digital lines?

    If you have devices connected to your phone line, such as house alarms, CCTV or payment terminals, check they are compatible with a digital phone line. 

  • What devices are affected by the switch off?

    Devices connected to your phone line may be affected. This can include alarms, CCTV, payment terminals, telecare devices, health monitoring equipment, door entry systems and lift phones. Check with your device supplier or service provider before switching. 

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