The UK’s Switch To Digital Networks For Startups & Consumers

UK telecommunications are seeing new changes and developments by the day, and many are beginning to make the transition from outdated copper networks to digital Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, systems.

This is a major and important switch where both businesses and customers are concerned. It is set to have concluded by 2025.

Why Is The UK Changing To Digital Networks?

 

Traditional landlines work with the old public switched telephone network, which can be pretty pricey, and high maintenance.

James Lilley, Openreach’s managed customer migrations manager, also had a word on how important  digital transformation is in strengthening the UK economy’s tech backbone.

James said, “”We’re moving to a digital world and Openreach is helping with that transformation by rolling out ultrafast, ultra-reliable, and future-proofed digital full fibre across the UK.

This game-changing technology will become the backbone of our economy for decades to come, supporting every aspect of our public services, businesses, industries and daily lives.

“Already, our full fibre network is available to close to 14 million homes and businesses, with more than four million premises currently taking a service.

“Taking advantage of the progress of our full fibre build and encouraging people to upgrade where a majority can access our new network is the right thing to do as it makes no sense, both operationally and commercially, to keep the old copper network and our new fibre network running side-by-side.”

 

How Will This Affect Individuals?

 

For households switching to VoIP, there are a few things to take into consideration to be sure you’re making a smooth transition:

Power Backup: VoIP services need power to operate. Those who use landlines should find out about free backup options from their providers.

New Equipment: Users might want to look at upgrading routers, handsets, and broadband connections for the transition.

Device Compatibility: Devices like security systems and medical alarms need to be checked for compatibility with digital networks.

Businesses: What to Consider When Moving to VoIP

Businesses must take proactive steps to transition properly:

Evaluate Infrastructure: Double check which equipment relies on the analogue network.

Provider Consultation: Contact providers like BT, Sky, and Vodafone to understand the steps required for a smooth transition.

Test Compatibility: Use Openreach’s Digital Services Test Lab to verify that equipment works with digital networks.

Training: Make sure that staff are prepared through training, so they’re ready for the big switch!

The Benefits of VoIP For Startups And Businesses

 

Switching to VoIP offers a few benefits for startups and businesses:

Improved Connectivity: VoIP provides a more reliable and high-quality communication experience.

Cost Savings: Transitioning away from copper takes down operational costs.

Flexibility: VoIP services integrate easily with other digital platforms, enhancing productivity.

 

Openreach’s Full Fibre Rollout

 

Openreach intends to make this switch to VoIP even smoother by rolling out ultrafast full fibre broadband. They say that by 2026, 25 million homes and businesses will have access to fibre connectivity, bringing them:

Increased Speeds: Fibre broadband has speeds of up to 10x faster than today’s tech.

Network Stability: Full fibre networks really take down downtime, so there’s consistent service.

 

Adapting Businesses To The Digital Switch

 

Businesses must make sure they are well-prepared:

Critical Equipment: Make sure essential devices like card payment machines and security alarms work with VoIP.

Maintain Operations: Work closely with service providers to avoid disruptions during the switch to digital services.