The UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) was switched off in 2025, making older analogue phones obsolete. If you still need a home landline, the answer is VoIP, Voice over Internet Protocol. But what is VoIP, and what does it mean for you?
What Is VoIP and How Does It Work?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. Rather than transmitting voice data along traditional copper cables, VoIP sends calls digitally over the Internet. For the end user, making and receiving calls works in the same way; the difference is under the bonnet.
Fibre-based VoIP connections offer greater capacity and are far more resilient to physical damage, corrosion, storms, and electrical interference than the ageing copper network the UK has relied on since Victorian times.
Why Did the UK Switch to VoIP?
The old landline network was built on fragile copper cables vulnerable to weather damage, corrosion, fire, and electrical faults. That analogue infrastructure was no longer fit for purpose and has now been fully phased out.
The solution was already in place: the Internet. By routing calls over broadband connections, VoIP delivers a more reliable, future-proof phone service for homes and businesses alike.
Has the Switch Already Happened?
Yes, the transition from PSTN to digital VoIP was completed in 2025. All UK phone providers have now moved customers onto VoIP lines. If you haven’t yet made the switch, or you’ve recently moved home and are setting up a landline for the first time, you’ll be joining the network on a VoIP connection as standard.
What Do Customers Need To Do?
For the majority of customers, switching to VoIP is straightforward:
- Plug your phone into your router rather than the wall socket, most modern phones already support VoIP.
- Check your router as newer models include built-in VoIP connections.
- No broadband? No problem. Providers are required to offer a basic phone-only package covering the cost of the line, with no installation charge to the customer.
- Keep your number, in most cases, you can retain your existing phone number. Your provider will let you know if
Special Considerations for VoIP Users
Telecare and alarm devices
If you use a telecare device, monitored burglar alarm, or any other equipment that relied on a traditional landline connection, contact your provider. These devices may need alternative solutions to work correctly over VoIP.
Power dependency
Unlike traditional landlines, VoIP requires power to operate. If you’re a vulnerable customer who depends on your landline, your provider should offer a resilience solution, such as a mobile phone or battery backup, at no cost to you.
Make Sure You’re Set Up Correctly
Now that VoIP is the UK standard for landline calls, it’s worth checking that your equipment is fully compatible. If you’re using an older phone or router, upgrading your hardware will ensure you get the best call quality and reliability from your VoIP connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VoIP stand for?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. It is the technology used to make and receive phone calls digitally over the Internet, rather than through the traditional copper cable network.
Is VoIP the same as a normal phone call?
To the user, yes, VoIP calls work in exactly the same way as a traditional landline call. You dial a number, speak, and listen as normal. The difference is that your voice is transmitted as digital data over the Internet rather than as an analogue signal through copper wires.
Do I need broadband to use VoIP?
Yes, VoIP requires an Internet connection to make and receive calls. Most homes and businesses already have broadband, making the transition straightforward. If you don’t want a full broadband package, your provider is required to offer a basic phone-only service that covers just the cost of the line.
Will I need a new phone for VoIP?
Not necessarily. Many modern phones are already VoIP-compatible. If your phone isn’t, you may be able to use an adaptor rather than replacing it entirely.
