Businesses and individuals across the UK use the analogue Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to make phone calls, receive emails, and browse the web. The PSTN has been in use in the UK since the 1800s and has been the backbone of communications. However, it is now increasingly unable to deal with the demands of modern technology and unprecedented signal traffic.
As more people switch to mobile or internet communications and our use of these technologies broadens, our world gets faster. Expectations of performance are much greater than the traditional technologies were designed to deliver, and therefore PSTN can no longer sustain the amount of data being shared. To meet the demands now and in the future, we need to change and switch-off the PSTN.
Communications will now be managed digitally using IP technology (otherwise known as Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VoIP) which is faster and boasts far more features than businesses and individuals may be used to. When used with latest generation security products, they can easily integrate with mobile devices and apps, provide detailed reporting, and help gather insights about customer and employee behaviour.
How will this affect security systems and other alarm devices?
Many security systems such as CCTV, access control solutions, and intruder alarms which communicate to Alarm Receiving Centre’s (ARCs) will have higher levels of protection as several channels are used to transfer encrypted data which IP can provide.
The switchover also impacts the telecare industry and those who rely on personal alarms. We encourage customers to plan and prepare for the switch-off to ensure that vulnerable people remain safe and lives are not put at risk.
When is the switch over?
The digital switchover driven by the telecoms industry has already begun and will be completed in December 2025 when the all IP network will be fully operational in the UK. It will signal the beginning of a new era in communications technology. Support for the network with not be withdrawn until 2025 but businesses and customers need to plan now and review their communication technology and find out how they will be affected by the changes.
Digital solutions tailored to businesses
We are working with our partners to offer a digital solution tailored to meet the needs of businesses and individuals. To futureproof your business and home, customers are advised to upgrade both their panel and signalling device to gain from the enriched benefits of transferring to all IP and remote services.
Our specialist team have invested significantly in new technologies and selected, tested, approved an array of new digital products fully compatible and scalable to your needs. Those who wait until the last minute to make the change are likely to experience delays and find it difficult to get faults fixed.
Stay connected, stay protected
Our specialist team are happy to talk to you about the digital switchover, explain what the change may mean and provide advice and guidance on the next steps to ensure we can continue to protect and safeguard your most important assets.
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Chubb’s global footprint, and local expertise is reflected in its
12,000+ team, working from 200+ offices across 17 countries.
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Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Chubb’s global footprint, and local expertise is reflected in its
12,000+ team, working from 200+ offices across 17 countries.
Get in touch with our regional offices
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