The digital switchover

The UK’s telecommunications landscape is undergoing its biggest change in decades, the digital switchover. Carla Sousa, Marketing Director at Chubb Fire and Security provides some practical advice for those who have yet to start the switchover process

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been a cornerstone of UK communications for generations, enabling businesses and households to make phone calls, receive emails, and browse the web. However, this analogue system is becoming obsolete, and a new digital infrastructure is required to meet our modern communication needs.

The UK’s upcoming 2027 PSTN switch-off, or the digital switchover, signals a new era for telecommunications. This transition involves moving to Next Generation Networks (NGNs), and while it will fundamentally reshape the landscape for communication, it will also impact many crucial building systems that you and your clients rely on for operations, safety, and compliance.

Switching off the PSTN will affect a wide array of systems, from (Voice over Internet Protocol) VoIP-driven telephony to digital network-compatible fire alarms. This means those who haven’t initiated the switch over yet need to act sooner rather than later to ensure a smooth transition.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO ACT NOW

The PSTN shutdown means that analogue phone lines and devices connected to traditional phone networks will stop working. This change will also affect any critical analogue system, including fire alarms, CCTV, access control points, and building management systems (BMS) connected to a PSTN. For many, these are indispensable assets for safety and communication, and a failure to plan could lead to disruptions and rising costs as the switch-off approaches.

The urgency to prepare and act must be balanced. In some parts of the country, the transition to digital networks has already begun, and we are already advising customers on how to navigate the changes to ensure their systems remain operational and connected.

Doing nothing and waiting until the deadline in January 2027 could create bottlenecks, risking equipment shortages, service delays, and escalated expenses. Proactive steps will ensure you are well-equipped to avoid these last-minute challenges.

CONDUCTING A COMPREHENSIVE AUDIT

So, how can you prepare for the PSTN switchover? The first step is to thoroughly audit your facility’s current systems. Identifying every device and system that relies on PSTN connectivity is essential to understanding the full scope of impact.

You should focus on your key systems, such as phones, fire safety and security systems, and building management systems.

You should also consider the number of buildings you manage, their age, layout, and connectivity needs. Older buildings, for instance, may face unique challenges with wireless networks and might require additional upgrades.

EVALUATING CONNECTIVITY REQUIREMENTS

After identifying which systems need upgrading, you need to assess their connectivity requirements. Critical infrastructure and buildings housing vulnerable individuals may benefit from extra robust or specialised network setups to keep everything running smoothly and minimise interruptions and downtime.

Given the complexity of the digital switchover, you may benefit from working with a specialist. Experts in integrated IT infrastructure or fire safety and security service providers can simplify the process by providing a thorough assessment, making tailored technology recommendations, and implementing systems.

This partnership can help you avoid unnecessary costs, reduce delays, and ensure that all PSTN-dependent systems switch over seamlessly. Additionally, an experienced partner can offer ongoing support as the transition progresses, which is useful for any unforeseen challenges.

Acting now allows you to create a phased approach to switching any PSTN-reliant equipment and systems. It’s a good idea to prioritise critical technology and gradually work through less essential ones. For instance, start with essential safety systems like fire alarms and security, followed by BMS and telephony upgrades. This considered approach can help minimise disruption, maintain full coverage and monitoring capabilities, and address issues as they arise.

BUDGETING FOR EQUIPMENT UPGRADES

A phased approach also allows you to budget for the upgrades. Beyond the initial costs of equipment replacement and installation, these digital solutions can offer long-term savings in terms of costs and sustainability thanks to enhanced energy efficiency and the option of remote service and maintenance.

Your fire safety and security systems may already be open protocol, but if they’re not, you could consider installing them, as they can provide additional benefits. For instance, product-agnostic organisations like Chubb can easily take over, manage, and monitor these systems if you change suppliers later.

COMMUNICATION, TESTING AND TRAINING

Informing your staff and clients that the switchover is taking place can minimise concerns about potential impacts. Once new equipment is in place, specialists can test devices to ensure they are properly connected to the new network. They can also assist with training on how the new digital systems operate and can prevent confusion or disruption.

EMBRACING THE OPPORTUNITIES

While the digital switchover presents challenges, it also offers many benefits and advantages. Firstly, the switchover gives you the chance to modernise your building infrastructure. You can benefit from improved flexibility, scalability, and operational efficiency by replacing outdated systems with advanced digital solutions. Replacing plastic ID cards with mobile credentials is just one example. Connecting systems and extracting data enables better control over energy consumption, security, and safety, offering smarter building management and aligning with wider business goals, such as your commitment to the environment.