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The way businesses communicate is changing fast. With the UK PSTN switch-off scheduled for January 2027, companies must move from traditional phone systems to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). For SMEs, this decision impacts cost, flexibility and future-proofing.

What Is VoIP?

VoIP uses your internet connection to make and receive calls instead of traditional copper phone lines. Services like Webex for Gamma, Microsoft Teams and other UCaaS platforms deliver voice, video and messaging in one solution.

What are traditional phone systems?

Traditional systems rely on PSTN or ISDN lines. They require on-premise hardware, physical maintenance, and often come with higher call charges. With BT Openreach retiring these networks by January 2027, businesses will need to migrate soon. 

According to Ofcom, PSTN downtime increased by 60% in 2023, highlighting the fragility of the old network.

Comparison table of VoIP to traditional phone systems

Benefits of using a VoIP

  1. Cost Savings: Businesses can save 30–50% annually by switching to VoIP according to Ofcom. 
  2. Scalability: Add users in minutes without engineers. 
  3. Hybrid Work Ready: Employees can make calls from any device. 
  4. Advanced Features: Auto attendants, call recording, voicemail-to-email, CRM integration.

Why traditional systems are fast-becoming obsolete

  1. PSTN Switch-Off: All UK businesses must migrate by 2027. 
  2. Limited Functionality:  No video, messaging, or integration with modern apps. 
  3. Higher Costs: Maintenance and upgrades are expensive. 

Over two-thirds of UK landlines have already migrated to VoIP, and full migration is required by January 2027. In fact, 31% of UK businesses switched to VoIP in 2025 and adoption is accelerating.

How CHS Networks can help with VoIP migration

CHS Networks can help your business to: 

  1. Audit your current telephony setup. 
  2. Port numbers and configure VoIP systems. 
  3. Integrate VoIP with Microsoft Teams, Webex for Gamma and 3CX. 
  4. Provide ongoing support and compliance. 

VoIP isn’t just a trend. it’s the future of business communication. With the PSTN switch-off looming, SMEs should start planning their migration now to avoid disruption and unlock cost savings. 

Talk to an telecoms expert today or explore our VoIP solutions to avoid disruption.