PSTN switch-off: Why SME’s should ditch their Legacy Phone Systems before 2026

Does your business still rely on a traditional phone system? The PSTN switch-off 2025 is the year to act before the UK’s old copper network goes silent for good!

1. What’s Happening and Why It Matters

Did you know? More than 40% of UK SMEs are still operating on legacy systems — putting them at risk of disconnection if they don’t migrate in time.

With Openreach phasing out maintenance of old lines by the end of 2025, now is the time to upgrade and avoid potential downtime later.

2. The Hidden Costs of Hanging On to Legacy Systems

Holding on to an ageing phone system might feel like an easier option but in reality, it’s becoming a costly and risky choice for many businesses. As technology moves forward and the UK prepares for the 2027 PSTN switch-off, traditional PBX systems are falling further behind. What once seemed reliable is now creating hidden expenses, performance issues and compliance headaches that can quietly drain time and money.

Here are some of the biggest challenges facing businesses that continue to rely on legacy systems. Think of it this way – You wouldn’t keep using Windows XP to run your business, so why rely on 20-year-old phone infrastructure?

• Rising maintenance costs – replacement parts are scarce and expensive for traditional PBX systems.
• No vendor support- major manufacturers like Samsung and Panasonic have exited the PBX market.
• No compatibility – old systems can’t handle remote work, mobile integration, or CRM connectivity as well.
• Compliance risk – outdated systems can’t support modern data protection or PCI standards.

3. The Smart Alternative: Cloud and VoIP

Cloud phone systems work over your internet connection. They don’t need a physical exchange on-site, and they can scale instantly as your team grows. We have summarised this in our previous blog, The 2027 Landline Switch-Off: What UK Businesses Need to Know.

Do more with IPECS

• Work anywhere with tools like iPECS ONE for mobile and desktop.
• Keep your existing numbers – migration is seamless!
• Advanced features like voicemail-to-email, analytics, AI call summaries and on-hold automation.
• Lower costs and predictable monthly billing.

With offices in Belfast, Glasgow, and Dublin, we can deliver local support with global technology from Ericsson-LG.

4. Your 2025 Migration Checklist

Now that you know the PSTN switch-off is coming, the next step is to prepare your business for a smooth transition. Upgrading your phone system doesn’t have to be complicated – in fact, with the right plan, it can be quick, simple, and even cost-saving. Use this checklist to make sure your business is ready to migrate to a modern, cloud-based system like iPECS Cloud before the 2026 rush begins.

✅ PSTN Switch-Off Readiness Checklist

1. Audit your current phone setup – Is it analogue, ISDN, or hybrid?
2. Check your broadband speed – Cloud systems rely on stable internet; we’ll assess that for you.
3. Identify key features you need – Call recording, remote work, mobile integration, etc.
4. Plan your migration window – Don’t wait for the 2026 rush; act while our engineers and resources are available.

5. Why you should make the transition in 2025, Not 2027

The smart move is to upgrade in 2025 before the rush. It’s faster, easier, and gives your business a modern communication edge before your competitors catch up. If you’re still thinking there’s plenty of time before the 2027 switch-off, think again. The reality is that the window for an easy, well-planned migration is closing fast and 2025 is the year when smart businesses will take action.

Here’s why

• Supply chain and engineer shortages will peak in 2026.
• Early adopters enjoy better pricing and smoother migrations.
• Waiting until the last minute risks downtime or service interruption.

6. Conclusion: The Future Is Already Here

The PSTN switch-off isn’t just the end of old technology, it’s the start of something far better. For businesses across the UK and Ireland, this change marks the shift to faster, smarter, and more flexible communication. By embracing cloud-based systems like iPECS Cloud, you’re not just avoiding disruption; you’re unlocking a new level of efficiency, mobility and customer experience.

Instead of being limited by hardware and phone lines, your team can now connect from anywhere using laptops, mobiles or desk phones – all under one secure and reliable platform. You’ll gain greater control over your communications, real-time insights through analytics and seamless integrations with tools you already use.

Upgrading in 2025 means you’ll be ahead of the curve without having to catching up under pressure. It’s a simple step that gives your business peace of mind, improved productivity, and a modern edge over competitors.

The PSTN switch-off isn’t the end — it’s your opportunity to modernise. With Yellowcom by your side, moving to iPECS Cloud is quick, supported, and completely stress-free.

At Yellowcom, we’ve already helped hundreds of businesses across the UK and Ireland future-proof their communications with iPECS Cloud – delivering the same reliability they expect from traditional systems, plus all the advantages of mobility, scalability and advanced features.

Don’t wait until the rush in 2026. Take control of your migration now and stay connected without disruption.

📞 Call us today: UK: 03330 156 651 l Ireland: 01 263 5299

Or request your free PSTN switch-off readiness audit – let’s make your move to cloud communication simple and stress-free.