Are Landline Phones Being Phased Out?

At Town & Country Communications, we've been working with fixed landline systems for almost 30 years. Join us as we explore what exactly landlines are, what you should be prepared for with the changes coming in 2025, and which alternative choices are out there.

What are landline phones?

Landline lines are one of the oldest types of telephone connection still in use today. Unlike mobile phones, which rely on wireless technology and cellular networks, landline phones are connected to a fixed network of copper or fibre-optic cables. They provide a reliable, clear connection, even during blackouts, but this comes at the cost of portability and functionality.

While landline phones have become less common for personal use, they're still used in businesses, hospitals, and other settings where a consistent means of communication is essential. They're often preferred for certain types of emergency calls due to their reliability and fixed location.

Are landlines being phased out in 2025?

Yes and no. Currently, landlines rely on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to work. They're connected to this network physically via copper wires. Starting in 2025, however, all phone services will transition to broadband lines. This means the traditional "landlines" as we know them will now be powered by Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), essentially routing your phone calls through the internet.

If you currently have a landline, your provider will automatically switch your telephone to a VoIP connection once the official switchover date is announced. You can still keep using your existing landline telephone – the only real change is that you'll need to connect your telephone to your broadband router using an adapter or a new wall socket. Your phone company should provide you with this equipment, along with any other necessary devices.

Even if you don't currently have a broadband connection, your provider should still be willing to help you make the switch to a basic broadband "line only" connection, if that's what suits you best.

What alternatives to landline phones are out there?

If you're in the market for a new phone system but aren't sure if traditional landlines are the best fit for your needs, here are the two main alternatives:

Mobile phones

It's no surprise that mobile phones are the most popular alternative to landline phones. They offer the fantastic benefit of portability, allowing you to stay connected virtually anywhere with network coverage. Mobile phones also come with a wealth of features, from text messaging and internet access to a wide array of apps, making them incredibly versatile.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

VoIP comes with a host of benefits over traditional landlines, which is why the technology behind landlines will soon be switched over to it.

Calls are transmitted over the internet, resulting in lower long-distance and international call charges, and can be done through virtually any internet-connected device. VoIP also offers an impressive array of advanced features, scalability, and seamless integration with other communication tools like email, messaging, and customer relationship management (CRM) software.

Talk to Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire's go-to phone specialists

Looking for a new phone system for your business? You're in the right place!

At Town & Country Communications, we've been providing businesses with tailored phone solutions for nearly 30 years. We've had the privilege of working with countless businesses over the decades, both big and small, from a wide range of industries.

Whether you're leaning towards a traditional landline, a modern VoIP system, or a mobile solution, you can rest assured that our experienced team will be right by your side, working closely with you to create a system that perfectly suits your business's needs. We're committed to making your new setup cost-effective, so you can streamline your customer and staff communication without too much of a dent in your finances.

Our services cover all of Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. When you're ready to take the next step, book a consultation online or give us a call on 01202 514444 today!

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