Say goodbye to old school analogue lines!
The big analogue line switch off is well underway and unfortunately if you are using an old analogue line, it won’t be long until your current communications infrastructure will no longer work. But don’t panic, we’re here to give you a run-down of what you need to know.
What is an analogue line?
This is a traditional telecommunications connection that uses analogue signals to transmit voice over a physical copper wire or other transmission channel. These lines have been in use for decades (the first one was used in the late 1800s to be precise!) and they were the standard way of providing a telephone service before progressions in digital technology.
Why is the Analogue Line switch off happening?
There are many reasons why analogue lines are being switched off, the main one being that because digital technologies have advanced so much it means that digital communication such as VOIP are a lot more cost-effective than analogue lines and have a much wider range of features that will benefit businesses.
Additionally, it is clear to see that modern communication needs to extend beyond voice calls, the need for video conferencing and online collaboration tools are paramount in the modern world, which is why VOIP is more suited to most businesses now.
VOIP is also more efficient in terms of bandwidth utilisation and can be easily scaled up to accommodate a growing number of users (similarly it is just as easy to scale back, if necessary, too!)
When is the Analogue Line switch off happening?
Like with everything the advancements of technology mean that we are continuously adapting therefore our phone systems must follow suit. Consequently, from 2025, BT will implement the much-anticipated Analogue Line Switch off.
Will it just be phone lines that are affected?
Unfortunately, any system that are still hardwired with landlines to enable them to work will be affected. This could include, door entry systems, lifts, street lights, CCTV, alarms, payment systems and more.
What is VOIP?
VOIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol, which in simple terms means that voice calls are made via the internet rather than a wire. Think of it like using WhatsApp or Facebook messenger to make calls to your friends and family.
What are the benefits of VOIP?
There are so many benefits to using a VOIP phone system, where do we start?
Lower Costs: VOIP often costs less than traditional phone systems (especially for long distance or international calls!) Also, there is less hardware needed for a VOIP telephone system which reduces set-up feed and maintenance costs.
Flexibility & Mobility: These are also added bonuses of VOIP as the use of remote extensions and mobile apps means that employees can make and receive calls on the go (or when working from home.) There are also plenty of other features that VOIP supports, such as call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, call routing and conference calling which all enable a more flexible work force.
Green Technology: VoIP typically has a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional phone systems because it relies on existing internet infrastructure.
Why should I look into switching ahead of 2025?
We understand that all businesses are busy, who has time to worry about analogue lines? Well, it is worth setting a little time aside to explore switching your phone system sooner rather than later.
Getting ahead of the switch means that you can minimise disruption time, there will be new technology for teams to use therefore staff training needs to be taken into consideration. As well as this, the sooner you look into making the switch, the sooner you can input updated figures into your budgets (and see your cost-savings!)
How can DNS help with the digital switch over?
We’re here to help make the switch as seamless and stress free as possible. We know that many businesses who have used analogue lines for numerous years may find this switch a bit worrying, but please be rest assured the DNS Team will be with you to flatten out any concerns.
Get in touch with a member of the team today to begin your VOIP journey.
