The big switch off is coming

The Big Switch Off is one of the most significant developments in the world of communications that we’ve seen for many years. In 2025 the analogue phone network will be closed down. So, if you’re one of the millions of businesses still relying on a connectivity solution that uses the old copper phone lines or ISDN, you need to find a new fibre-based communications solution.

Remember, it’s not just about making phone calls or having simple internet access. Anything that’s connected to broadband will be affected, including CCTV, alarm and door entry systems, credit and debit card processing devices, and franking machines.

The good news is that this can be seen as more of an opportunity than a threat. Why? Because you can seize the moment and make the move to a VoIP solution that uses the power of superfast fibre to deliver a whole host of game-changing business benefits.

Why is VoIP so much better?

With a full fibre internet connection, you get much faster speeds, more stability and better reliability. But the benefits don’t end there. Full fibre is the gateway to the exciting new world of IP communications, which can be transformative for your business.

VoIP is a low-cost alternative to the traditional telephone system. Call quality is improved and it’s much easier to scale up or down to match demand, adding users easily without having to install new phone lines.

You also get the benefit of Unified Communications. Your phone system will integrate seamlessly with mobile devices, providing useful functionality such as call diversion and instant messaging. You’ll have more power to make effective use of business apps such as Microsoft Teams and file sharing solutions, enabling homeworkers and those on the move to stay in touch from any location.

Full fibre and VoIP cost-effectively give SMBs the advanced communications functionality that was previously only available to major corporations with big budgets. Read our previous blog here.

Switching to a hosted communications solution can also help you deliver an enhanced customer experience, improve customer engagement and compete successfully in a global marketplace. Find out more here.

Cost-effective

We understand that when making any changes in your business, you need to consider the financial implication. Switching to a VoIP solution can enable you to achieve business transformation cost-effectively, so that you can take your business forward confidently, and even consider diversifying or targeting new markets. Because your solution is hosted in the Cloud, the benefits of IP-based communications come without major investment in infrastructure, hardware or maintenance packages.

 

The power of cloud-based technologies

Business communications have been revolutionised in recent years. With Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, SMBs can benefit from the high-level functionality that would previously only have been available to large companies with expensive resources. Hosted solutions cost-effectively enable seamless communication with customers and suppliers, with advanced calling features such as call waiting and instant messaging.

VoIP also offers cheaper deals and cheaper calls. And with easy, cost-effective scalability, you can add or remove capacity to match demand.

But the power of the Cloud doesn’t stop at communications. Using feature-rich cloud-based apps your employees can work, communicate and collaborate more effectively. Video conferencing makes meetings efficient and productive, while file and data sharing offer instant access to key information.

What is the timeline for the big switch off?

December 2025 is when the entire analogue network will finally be switched off. However, BT has already stopped selling traditional phone lines, as well as copper and fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) broadband connections.

If you have any of these products, your current phone system and internet connectivity will continue to work. However, if you need more capacity, you won’t be able to scale up by adding new lines or users.

Why wait? The benefits are there for you now

You don’t have to wait until the last minute to switch to a VoIP solution. Embracing the technology now could be less disruptive for your business. You’ll also be reaping the benefits from the get-go, helping you deliver better service to your customers, as well as improving business efficiency and enabling your employees to work smarter.

We’re here to help

At Cambridge Telecom we can help you enjoy the benefits of full fibre connectivity and cloud-based communications. We’ll review your current telecoms provision and put forward a detailed, fully costed proposal for a hosted solution, based on what’s available in your area.

Our expert team will work with you to find a cost-effective solution that can grow with your business. We won’t baffle you with techno-speak. Our straight-talking, down-to-earth approach means you’ll get all the information you need to make an informed decision, presented in a clear, easily-digestible format.

Make 2024 the year you switch on your communications to a full fibre VoIP solution. Call our sales team on 01223 661636 or email enquiries@cambridgetelecom.com