Digital Switchover

Getting ready for digital phone lines

The UK's telephone network is changing. Between now and 2027 the old analogue telephone landlines will be upgraded to landline services using digital technology.

This means that by 31st January 2027, landline calls will be made using the internet instead of traditional phone lines. This is happening because the old system has been in operation for decades and have reached the end of their serviceable life.

What do I need to do?

Residents

In most cases you don't need to do anything until your provider tells you that your telephone service is changing.

For most consumers, this change will be straightforward. If you already have an internet connection, the change may be as simple as plugging your phone into your broadband router rather than the socket on the wall.

However, if you or someone you know is dependent on a landline telephone, or a service that relies on it, such as a care alarm, smoke or security alarm, then it is recommended that you check with the provider of the service to see what their plans are for the service, and when they expect the changes to happen. They will also be able to advise on whether the device will need to be upgraded or replaced.

It is the responsibility of the provider to ensure those who depend on a landline are provided a resilient solution that will allow customers to make calls to the emergency services in the event of a power outage and the government is working with Ofcom to ensure this is the case.

Businesses

It’s not just your phone services you need to think about. It’s everything else that currently uses the old phone network, see some examples below: 

  • All your non-voice services connected to PSTN or ISDN lines
  • Alarms e.g. building or personal
  • EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) machines
  • Payment lines
  • Door entry systems
  • CCTV
  • Fax machines
  • Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS)

Your provider will be able to confirm what services you currently use that will be impacted by these changes.

Do I have to have broadband?

Once the old telephone connection is switched off, customers that wish to continue having a landline phone, and do not already have broadband, will generally need to have a suitable broadband connection - this is the case even if they don't use a broadband service.

We expect that providers will have a range of options for people in this situation, so customers should not be forced to take out a high-speed broadband package if they do not want to.

If you have a service such as a care alarm, smoke or security alarm that currently uses a telephone line it is likely that a broadband service will be required. The provider of the service will be able to advise whether you will need to provide this connection.

In an emergency

Digital landlines cannot carry an independent power connection like the old analogue lines, so in the event of a power cut they will not work without mains power.

Telecoms companies are required by Ofcom to take all necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted access to emergency organisations for their customers, including in the event of a power cut.

For more information:

This switch off is being undertaken by Openreach, and your telephone provider, therefore Caerphilly County Borough Council are unable to assist you directly with any queries.

For more information, please contact your telephone provider and/or visit Openreach’s main page: Digital phone lines | Openreach