How To Prepare for The PSTN Switch Off with IoT

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The world is moving towards digitalisation at an unprecedented pace and the communication sector is no exception to this phenomenon. The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which was once the backbone of voice communication and telephone services, is being phased out across the UK. This shift has significant implications for the devices and businesses that rely on the PSTN infrastructure.

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Understanding the PSTN switch off

The PSTN is a telephony network that enables voice communication via copper wires. It has been used as the main mode of communication for over a century since its establishment in the late 1800s. However, with the emergence of digital communication technology, the PSTN has become obsolete. Digital communications are more secure and reliable than analogue systems and offer instantaneous communication options. In 2017, the UK declared its intent to phase out the PSTN in favour of digital communication technologies such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and cellular networks.

IoT and the PSTN switch off

IoT uses cellular connectivity to traverse data and enable communication between two or more devices. However, many older business devices and operations still rely on the PSTN infrastructure in order to operate. Before the phase-out began, the PSTN offered a reliable form of communication making it the go-to choice for medical monitors, home security systems, lift lines, care homes, industrial automation systems, and many more applications. Unfortunately, unless a PSTN replacement service is implemented, the switch off is putting these devices at risk of becoming obsolete.

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Challenges of the 2025 PSTN switch off

The 2025 PSTN switch off presents several challenges for businesses…

Investment

Many business devices and processes have long been designed to operate using PSTN technology. Replacing these services with a futureproof communication protocol (such as IoT connectivity) will come at a cost, however, this is unavoidable as all PSTN services will reach EOL in 2025. It’s important to source an alternative solution sooner rather than later to keep disruption to a minimum.

Implementation

Replacing devices that require a PSTN connection will require a coordinated effort and impeccable time management in order to minimise downtime during the migration of your services. Plenty of planning and preparation work will help reduce the risk of further obstacles from occurring, ensuring business continuity.

Compatibility

The decommissioning of the PSTN may result in loss of data if your IoT devices are not compatible with other communication protocols. It’s absolutely essential that your entire communications infrastructure is futureproofed in order to ensure business continuity once the PSTN is switched off. And with many PSTN services already on a stop-sell, now is the time to act.

Solutions to mitigate the impact of PSTN switch off on IoT

The impact of the PSTN switch-off is being addressed by the IoT industry. By connecting your IoT-ready devices to the existing 4G and 5G network infrastructure, they will communicate via the public or private internet. This makes it an ideal replacement for PSTN technology.

There are many different IoT connectivity solutions available to businesses, each of which have different benefits depending on your requirements. These solutions include multi-network roaming SIMs, fixed IP SIMs, eUICC SIMs, LPWAN connectivity, and more. To find out which IoT solution would be most suitable to replace your existing PSTN services, be sure to contact our team. We’d be more than happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation.

FAQs

What is the PSTN?

PSTN stands for Public Switched Telephone Network. It is a global network of telephony exchanges that allows voice communication over copper wires.

Why is PSTN being phased out?

PSTN is being phased out in favour of digital communication technologies like VoIP and cellular networks, which are more reliable, easier to maintain and more cost-effective.

How will the PSTN switch off impact IoT devices

The switch off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) may affect some IoT devices that rely on it for connectivity. Devices such as alarm systems, healthcare monitoring devices, and industrial sensors that use PSTN connectivity to transmit data to the internet may become obsolete. The impact of the PSTN switch off on IoT devices will depend on the specific device and its communication requirements. It is important for IoT device owners and manufacturers to stay informed about communication technology changes and update their devices accordingly to ensure continued functionality.

What are some examples of IoT devices that rely on PSTN technology?

Examples of IoT devices that rely on PSTN technology include home security systems, medical monitors, lift lines, and industrial automation systems.

Is IoT the future of communication?

As the number of internet-connected devices continues to grow, IoT technology is expected to become more of an essential aspect of communication than it already is. Developing secure and reliable communication protocols will be critical in managing the large amounts of data generated by these devices and revolutionising our interactions with the world.

Conclusion

The digitalisation of the communication sector has led to the PSTN reaching EOL, an inevitable consequence. It poses significant challenges for businesses, but the IoT industry is already working on solutions to mitigate its impact. Developments in IoT technology and the adoption of multi-protocol compatible devices are examples of how the industry is adapting during this unprecedented transition phase. As a result of the PSTN switch off, the popularity of IoT technology will continue to grow and their role in the future of communication will become more important.

Kickstart your IoT journey today

Ready to reap the benefits of an IoT solution but don’t know where to start? Contact our team of specialists and we’ll help you find an effective IoT connectivity solution for your unique project. And if you’re still not sure whether IoT connectivity is for you, trial one of our solutions and put our connectivity to the test…

How To Prepare for The PSTN Switch Off with IoT

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Understanding the PSTN switch off

IoT and the PSTN switch off

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