The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is being phased out and the deadline is rapidly drawing near. By 31 January 2027, all traditional phone lines will transition to a fully digital network that uses Internet Protocol (IP) over fibre-based service. This change marks the retirement of traditional copper phone lines and a large step towards a fully digital communication structure. BT Openreach recommends transitioning to a fully digital service by the end of December 2025 to avoid disruption.
As the switch-off date gets closer, the PSTN is becoming increasingly unstable and more prone to technical issues. If your services still depend on legacy infrastructure, they may soon stop functioning. Many offices still rely on copper lines for alarms, elevators, point-of-sale systems or basic broadband. These services are at risk, so it’s essential to begin planning your migration now.
This article explains how to make the transition easy by replacing old internet lines with modern connections and where a phone sits on any of these old lines, replacing the telephony portion with Microsoft Teams Phone.
Connectivity: Replacing Legacy Lines
If you’re still paying for copper-based (or “analogue”) phone lines, your current internet or telecom provider may have already contacted you. If not, it’s worth reaching out to confirm whether you still have any services that will need replacing. Look for anything on your bill listed as “ADSL”, which is a strong indicator of a copper-based connection. Similarly, check if your premises have systems like alarms or lifts that may still rely on these analogue phone lines.
There are three main options available to replace traditional connections and Academia can provide all of them. Here’s a breakdown of the options and typical costs:
Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC / SOGEA)
Speeds of up to 80Mbps download / 20Mbps upload. A good, low-cost solution for smaller sites (10–20 users), typically costing £50–60 per month. Installation takes around 2–3 weeks.
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP / Full Fibre)
A faster alternative where fibre is run directly into the building, offering speeds of up to 1,000Mbps in both directions. Where available, it costs about £100 per month with installation in 3–6 weeks.
Dedicated Internet Access (DIA / Leased Line)
A private fibre connection exclusive to your organisation, offering maximum performance and a full 24/7 SLA. Best for large offices or HQs. Starting at £250 per month, but installation can take up to 90 days.
Need a quote? Reach out to us for connection upgrade options based on your needs and location for any of the above.
What is Microsoft Teams Phone?
With many organisations operating in hybrid or remote formats, traditional desk phones and phone systems are becoming outdated. Microsoft Teams Phone is an excellent replacement for legacy phone systems, allowing organisations to keep essential telephony features (like their main phone number or providing staff with a business line) while modernising their setup. It integrates seamlessly into the Microsoft Teams platform, enabling VoIP calls to landlines, mobiles or the Teams app.
What are the benefits?
Microsoft Teams Phone offers a suite of tools to streamline communication, enhance collaboration and communication and drive impact. There are multiple benefits, including:
Streamlined Communication: Teams Phone seamlessly integrates voice communication into the Microsoft Teams platform, consolidating various communication channels into one unified interface. This means no more plastic desk phones or separate phone apps! Admin rights can be handled within the Teams Admin Centre, eliminating the need for a separate portal.
Robust Security: Security and compliance features from Microsoft 365, including data encryption, compliance tools and multi-factor authentication (MFA), ensure that your call data is protected, offering peace of mind.
Flexibility and Accessibility: Teams Phone allows volunteers and staff to communicate from anywhere, at any time, using their preferred devices. Whether working remotely, in the field or at the office, Teams Phone ensures uninterrupted connectivity and accessibility, simply by installing.
Easy Scalability: As your charity grows, Microsoft Teams Phone can easily scale to accommodate more users without the need for significant infrastructure changes. This flexibility ensures that your communication system can grow with your organisation.
Cost Efficiency: By adopting a digital communication system, organisations can save on costs associated with traditional phone line bills and hardware. This can lead to significant savings, which can be redirected towards the organisation’s mission and activities.
User-Friendly: The familiar Microsoft Teams interface makes it easy for users to adopt and use Teams Phone without extensive training. This ensures a smooth transition and quick uptake by staff and volunteers.
Enhanced Mobility: Teams Phone allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere in the world, using any device. This mobility ensures that staff and volunteers can stay connected, whether they are in the office, working remotely or on the go. This is particularly useful for organisations with international operations or support networks.
Customisable Features: Teams Phone offers a range of customisable features, such as call forwarding, voicemail and auto-attendants. Organisations can tailor these features to suit their specific needs and improve their communication processes.
Next Steps
At Academia, we provide both internet connectivity and Teams Phone solutions. Our Teams Phone telephony solution includes all the minutes to landlines and mobiles you need, starting at just £7.60 per user per month, including the required Microsoft Teams Phone license which is cheaper than going directly via Microsoft!
For a more detailed overview of the features and benefits of Teams Phone or to speak to us about modernising your internet connections ahead of the PSTN switch off, please get in touch.
