PSTN Switch Off – All you need to know!
PSTN Switch Off – All you need to know!
By 2025, the UK’s analogue phone lines will be switched off and replaced with internet enabled phone networks. This has already begun in parts of the country and the pace of this change is gathering. The first Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) lines go right back to the days of Alexander Graham Bell in the 1800s, so they have done their time!
So, what does this mean for you and your security system? Besides faster and more reliable data streaming!
Simply put, any alarm system reliant upon a landline for communication to an alarm receiving centre or to property owners via a speech dialler will cease to communicate; or any ‘dual path’ alarm communicator with the landline as one of the signalling paths will no longer operate.
And what can we do about it?
As technology continues to advance, there are ever better GSM (sim card) and IP (internet protocol) solutions available, often with greater functionality and at no increase in cost to the users for these enhanced alarm signallers.
Certainly In some, but not all instances, older alarm systems will need an upgrade to interface to these latest solutions. We’ve worked hard with a small group of alarm manufacturers to be able to offer these upgrades at reduced costs. Though, in those cases, you’ll also get the benefit of being able to connect the system to an APP on your smartphones. Crucially, we can also offer a reduction in the ongoing maintenance costs as one of the annual checks could then be fully automated whilst remaining insurance compliant. This should soften the blow of any upgrade costs.
To find out how Falcon Fire and Security use the latest intruder, fire, CCTV and door intercom technology to help you stay safe, feel secure and remain protected talk to one of our friendly team.
Here’s a more in depth explanation of the technical PSTN changes: https://business.bt.com/why-choose-bt/insights/ip-technology/big-ptsn-switch-off-2025/##prepare
