As we edge closer to the ISDN switch off in 2025, there’s more and more information in circulation about why businesses need to act. We’re here to get to the bottom of what’s true and to clarify some of those points that influence a business’ decision to hold off from making those decisions just yet.
What are ISDN lines?
Otherwise known as PSTN, ISDN is the traditional line infrastructure that we’re all familiar with and in some areas they’re already being switched off. If you still haven’t started to consider your options, now is the time to look at making a seamless migration over to a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system.
With so much information out there, it’s important to answer some of the many questions we get asked and to also debunk some of the common myths out there.
Let’s have a look at some of the key points to consider and why:
- Will call quality be affected even though our internet connection is patchy and intermittent?
Only minimal bandwidth is required for a VoIP system, so most broadband connections can support voice traffic with no issues. Call quality can be just as good, if not better. It’s also worth noting that improvements to broadband connectivity are being made all the time, so if you do find this being an issue in your area, it shouldn’t be too long before those upgrades happen.
- If the internet goes down, will I still be able to make and receive calls?
Believe it or not, voice traffic over the internet is more reliable that the traditional phone lines and isn’t susceptible to severe weather events like flooding and high winds. Copper lines also suffer from degradation over time, whereas IP Telephony is actually more resilient. If your internet connection is affected, then call traffic can be easily switched to another connection without any impact, ensuring you have continuity of service.
- Will installation of a VoIP system cause a lot of disruption?
There’s no disruption to your business activities and you simply plug in the new handsets, download the VoIP app and you’re ready to go. Of course, we’re on hand to ensure this is a seamless process from the quotation stage to installation. We can operate a phased approach depending on the number of users in your business and we can also provide full training on making the most out of your new phone system if needed.
- If we’re only a small business, do we still need to make the switch?
No matter what the size of your business, the ISDN switch off applies to everyone because it will affect every business. What’s crucial is that businesses leave enough time to consider the options available.
- I don’t understand the technology, and this is putting me off from switching over
If you listen to the old adage, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, it’s easy to understand the resistance to new technology. The ISDN switch off is about taking action now, so you don’t have problems in the months or years ahead and since VoIP systems are managed in the cloud, all the updates and maintenance are done remotely. You don’t need to get involved with the technicalities, leaving you to get on with running your business.
- I’ll have to change my phone number
This is a common concern when looking at new voice solutions. Existing numbers can be retained and a huge benefit is you can answer calls via this number from a variety of mobile devices. Basically, wherever you can get an internet connection, you can answer calls.
- Will VoIP solutions support our flexible, hybrid workforce?
Wherever your employees are based, they’ll be able to make and receive calls as if they were in the office. VoIP phone systems are very beneficial to those working from home and at other company sites.
- How secure is a VoIP system?
If your internal network is secure, then the phone system isn’t any more vulnerable.
- Will it cost more?
Calls cost less with a VoIP system and a business can easily scale up or down depending on the number of users. Long term and even in the short term, you can expect to see cost advantaged straight away, because there’s no initial outlay as everything is in the cloud.
If you’re keen to find out more, then get in touch.
We’re here to help you discover the many advantages of a hosted phone system and to fully support you during the process.
