Openreach launches migration support ahead of UK PSTN switch-off

The United Kingdom is preparing for the complete shutdown of its Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) services, now scheduled for January 31, 2027. This transition moves the nation from legacy copper-based infrastructure to a digital, Internet Protocol (IP)-based network.

Openreach has launched a special offer to assist with the migration of customers who currently split their broadband and phone services between different providers. The initiative offers free connections for many of these lines to facilitate the move to modern digital platforms, such as SOGEA hybrid broadband or VoIP solutions. Approximately 1.5 million UK lines still require migration.

The switch-off poses risks to various critical systems that rely on analogue lines, including fire alarms, intruder alarms, medical monitoring equipment, and payment terminals. Research indicates that a significant portion of small and large businesses have not yet implemented mitigation strategies, which could lead to silent failures in emergency communication systems once the legacy network is deactivated.