BT Openreach Delays ISDN Switch-Off from 2025 to 2027

What We Know So Far

In 2017, BT Openreach unveiled a seven-year plan to phase out ISDN and PSTN networks in favour of IP technology, marking the beginning of the ISDN switch-off. Since then, pilot locations have fully transitioned to digital, and as of September 2023, the sale of Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) products has ceased. The original deadline was set for 2025, but as of May 2024, BT Openreach has extended the phase-out to 2027.

Read on to learn more about the ISDN switch-off delay and what to expect between now and 2027.

Changes to the ISDN Switch-Off

In May 2024, BT Openreach informed all telecom providers, including Newark Computers, that the ISDN switch-off is now scheduled for January 31st, 2027. While this date is subject to change, we will ensure that all our clients are kept informed of any updates.

Although WLR products stopped selling in 2023, the complete withdrawal will now align with the new 2027 deadline. The all-digital future may seem further away, but many businesses have already transitioned to IP technology in preparation for potential service disruptions.

Why Has the Switch-Off Been Delayed from 2025 to 2027?

While the ISDN switch-off appeared to be on track, BT Openreach encountered several challenges that threatened the success of the transition.

One of the main issues was engagement. Many end customers have not been engaged in the process, and other telecom providers have been slow to migrate their customers off WLR.

Additionally, further work is needed to protect vulnerable customers. Nearly two million people in the UK rely on critical telecare systems, and some have faced severe incidents, such as non-functioning health pendants and analogue lines connected to emergency services being deactivated.

In response, a Network Operator Charter was implemented in March 2024 to review these incidents and safeguard vulnerable individuals during the switch-off.

The Current State of the ISDN Network

Though the phase-out has been delayed, the condition of ISDN and PSTN networks continues to decline. According to an Ofcom report, PSTN incidents rose by 20% in 2023, and the loss of connectivity for customers on this network increased by 60%.

At Newark Computers, we are committed to helping our clients find the best solutions to future-proof their operations against these disruptions. We’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of digital technology. Our clients have benefited from greater scalability, fewer outages, reduced line rental costs, and a more productive workforce—all achievable with a hosted phone system.

What Will Happen Between Now and 2027?

Several key activities will take place leading up to January 2027:

• Continued Migrations: Newark Computers and other providers will continue transitioning clients from legacy products to IP technology.
• End of WLR Contracts: BT will terminate all existing WLR contracts by December 2025, as per the original schedule.
• WLR Withdrawal Notice Period: After December 2025, BT will introduce new terms, including a three-month termination notice period for any remaining WLR products.
• Industry Working Groups: BT will host working groups to develop strategies for managing non-engaged telecom providers and end-users.
• Official Switch-Off: All end customers will be fully transitioned to IP technology.

Prepare for the ISDN Switch-Off with Newark Computers

There’s no better time than now to switch to smarter, digital technology. Get ahead of the disruption and partner with Newark Computers to make your journey to a digital future seamless. Our expert team will support you every step of the way.

Future-proof your business today—contact the Newark Computers team to learn more.