UK’s PSTN network will switch off in 2025

What does this mean for your homes intruder alarm?

In 2025, BT will be switching off their old analogue system called ‘Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and will be switching to a digital system routing calls over IP (Internet Protocol). This switch-off will have substantial implications for more than just telephone calls and has already begun in phases across the UK.

This change will affect every single business and home across the country and is an important change because it will be affecting anything that uses the old phone network including:

• Intruder Alarms
• Access Control Systems
• Door Entry Systems
• CCTV
• Fire Systems

Why is this change happening?

As the technology that we use in our day to days lives has changed, it has pushed the existing PSTN system beyond its capabilities. The switch to mobile and internet communications will allow the UK communication network to better handle both today’s technology demands as well as those of the future.

While 2025 may seem far away, this change is already happening in phases. 2025 is when the final switch-off is due to take place. Over the weeks and months leading up to this final switch off, areas across the country will be making the transition (and some already have). This is why you need to start planning for the change now rather than in three years time.

How does this affect Fire & Security Systems?

Everything connecting through your phone lines will need to be reviewed. If you currently use an older home intruder alarm system, the phone line communication may not work any more. Older alarm signalling systems use a digital communicator which is connected to an analogue phone line. This will NOT work after the PSTN switch off. Any fire alarm or intruder alarm system that operates using an analogue network will need to be replaced or updated before the 2025 cut off point.

What should I do?

Modern alarm systems have been embracing an all digital technology set up for a while now, so if you have recently had an intruder alarm fitted, chances are that it is already set up to use IP communication systems rather than PSTN. As a leading Fire & Security providers in the UK, we can check whether your current fire alarm system or security system works on an analogue or digital format. If it has been installed in the last 4-5 years then it is most likely going to be okay but it is always better to be safe than sorry.

If your system is running an older analogue set up, your first option is to completely update the entire system. Intruder alarm technology is always improving. If you use an older home alarm system, this may present an ideal opportunity to upgrade your system to a higher grade of security deterrent that can better cope with the latest security threats. Modern intruder alarm systems operate on cloud servers and as well as providing a deterrent to burglars, they can connect with smoke alarms, detect flooding and control smart devices such as Ring Door Bells., All while being easily managed via mobile apps.

However, if your current system is reliant on the current PSTN system, it may not need to be replaced. There are upgrade solutions that can upgrade the existing system to use digital rather than analogue.

At HF Fire & Security, we strive to offer you the very best in home alarm system services and offer a fully customisable home alarm system design, installation and maintenance package so that your home, your possessions and your loved ones are secure.

Our specialist alarm system team, operating out of our offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Belfast and Aberdeen cover the whole of the UK and can provide:

• CCTV Systems
• Home Burglar Alarm / Intruder Alarm
• Motion Sensor Alarms
• Security Lighting
• Carbon Monoxide Alarm
• Smoke Detectors
• Monitoring & Maintenance

If you would like to find out more about our home alarm systems and how to upgrade your current PSTN dependant system to Digital IP, please contact us today.