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If your business still uses a traditional landline, you need to be aware of a major change happening across the UK.
The old copper phone network, often called the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), is being switched off and replaced with modern digital services.
This is sometimes referred to as the copper switch off, the BT landline switch off, or the PSTN switch off. Whatever name you’ve heard, the result is the same.
Every traditional landline in the UK will stop working by 31 January 2027.
The UK copper phone network will be switched off by 31 January 2027, and all businesses must move to a digital phone system before then to keep their phones working.
Your copper phone line will stop working no later than 31 January 2027.
The switch off is happening in stages:
You won’t normally be disconnected without warning. Your provider should contact you before any change happens.
Copper phone lines are already being phased out now.
You may be affected sooner than expected because:
In simple terms: copper phone lines are going away now, not just in 2027.
The copper switch off is the UK’s move away from traditional phone lines to modern internet-based communication.
Previously, calls ran over copper cables and phones plugged directly into wall sockets.
Now, calls are made using internet technology such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), meaning your phone system runs through your broadband connection.
After the switch off:
This includes systems like alarms, card machines and fax machines.
To keep your business running, you will need to move to a digital alternative such as a cloud phone system.
No. In most cases, you can keep your existing number when switching to a new system. This is done through number porting. The number porting process can be a lengthy process depending on the number of lines being moved and if all their related paper work is in order.
Most businesses are switching to cloud-based VoIP phone systems.
These allow you to:
Learn more about your options on our cloud phone systems page.
Yes, but it does not need to be complicated.
Leaving it too late can lead to rushed changes, higher costs and disruption.
The copper switch off is not optional. Every business relying on traditional phone lines will need to change.
Planning early helps avoid disruption and gives you a better system long term.
At Westway IT, we help small businesses move to modern cloud phone systems.
We handle setup, migration, number porting and support, so you don’t need to worry about the technical side.
All copper phone lines will stop working by 31 January 2027, although many are being migrated earlier.
They are already being phased out, with a full shutdown planned for 2027.
It is the retirement of the UK’s copper-based phone network, replaced by digital services.
No, you can usually keep your number when switching to a new system.
Most businesses move to a cloud-based VoIP phone system.
If you’re unsure how this affects your business, we can help you plan your next steps.
Managing Director, Westway IT
John is the founder of Westway IT and works directly with small businesses across Gloucestershire to keep their IT secure, productive and stress-free.
With a BSc in Computer Science and hands-on experience supporting businesses from 1 to 40 users, he specialises in cyber security, Microsoft 365 and business automation.
An award-winning MSP owner and active member of the global IT community (including GTIA), John focuses on solving real business problems, not just technical ones.
Published: 23 June 2026 | Last Updated: 23 June 2026
