As the PSTN switch-off approaches
CNI organisations must be ready to futureproof their telephony.
The PSTN switch-off is set for 31 January 2027. Discover what it means for Critical National Infrastructure and how to migrate without disrupting critical services.
The seamless delivery of critical services to the public depends on highly secure, resilient connections - not just the networks that interlink IT and OT systems, but the channels of communication that operations depend on. From ensuring citizens are able to speak to the right person to resolve an issue to connecting frontline responders with control centres, and even (in certain cases) keeping physical alarm systems operational, the importance of resilient voice services to the CNI sector cannot be overstated.
However, the way telephony is delivered across the UK is about to fundamentally change…
Following the initial announcement in 2018, the legacy PSTN and ISDN connections that traditionally formed the bedrock of the UK's voice services have been gradually phased out in favour of IP-based alternatives, including VoIP, SoGEA, and FTTP, with the final switch-off scheduled for January 31st, 2027.
As a result, organisations still utilising those connections must find an alternative and make the transition before the cut-off date.
For CNI Organisation, it is essential that this transition is completed well in advance of the switch-off, as any disruption to critical services can have potentially serious consequences, ranging from fines for non-compliance to - in the most serious cases, loss of life. This is codified in the Government's Telecoms Modernisation: Critical National Infrastructure Charter paper, which requires CNI organisations to work closely with their communication providers to ensure any potential disruption is avoided.However, the move to IP-based connections offers a unique opportunity to further optimise the resilience and availability of the UK's critical services, ensuring channels of communication always remain open and of the very highest quality, even in the most remote areas.
The inherent scalability of IP-based connectivity is a major advantage for CNI, ensuring cost control can be maintained as organisations expand their operations into new locations, with no need to purchase new hardware.
As a trusted technology partner for numerous organisations across the UK's CNI sectors, the Exponential-e Group is already providing hands-on support throughout this shift, not only helping organisations select the ideal solution for their applications, but also ensure a seamless transition that avoids any operational disruption and ensures full compliance with all applicable regulations is maintained.
