The Big Switch Off 2027 and VoIP
The UK’s traditional landline network (PSTN) will be switched off in 2027, moving homes and businesses to modern digital voice services. Instead of copper lines, calls will run over your broadband or mobile data connection using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) — the same secure technology already trusted by businesses across the UK.
VoIP has been around since the 1990s and has matured into a simple, reliable, and feature-rich way to stay connected. With the landline switch-off approaching, more households are upgrading now to enjoy clearer calls, more flexibility, and a future-proof phone service — all without losing your existing number.
The Big Switch Off 2027 and VoIP: What You Need to Know
‘The Big Switch Off’ & Full Fibre (Fibre To The Property (FTTP))
For over a century, phone calls in the UK have been handled by the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
This is the umbrella term for the complex infrastructure of telephone exchanges, lines, satellite links, and switching centres which connect one caller to another when a specific phone number is entered.
Internet calls, video conferencing, and online collaborative tools have far exceeded the capabilities of PSTN, and it is becoming increasingly expensive to maintain.
Fibre To The Property (FTTP) is rolling out all around the UK. This means homes and businesses can get faster Broadband via Fibre Optic Cable instead of the old Copper Lines.
“VoIP”, what does that mean?
Landlines in the UK are being phased out, with the old PSTN network closing in 2027. Instead of copper lines, phone calls will run over the internet using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) — similar to how apps like WhatsApp and Teams call, but as a proper phone service.
Although it feels new for many homes, VoIP has been around since the 1990s and has proven itself in the business world because it’s clear, reliable and easy to use. Now it’s becoming the standard for households across the UK too.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the UK landline switch-off happening?
The UK’s traditional PSTN landline network will be retired in 2027. After this, calls will run over digital services like VoIP instead of copper phone lines.
What is VoIP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) lets you make and receive calls using your broadband or mobile data connection, rather than the old landline network.
Can I keep my existing landline number?
Yes — in almost all cases you can keep your number when switching to VoIP. MIH VoIP manages the number transfer for you.
Do I need new equipment?
You can use our VoIP App on your mobile. Prefer a traditional handset? Use a VoIP Adapter to keep your existing phone and plug it into your router.
Is VoIP reliable?
Yes. With a stable broadband or mobile data connection, VoIP delivers clear, dependable calls — it’s already the standard for most modern businesses.
Will my careline, alarm or emergency button still work?
Some analogue devices may not work over digital phone services. It is best to speak to your careline/alarm provider for an upgraded care alarm system that uses a broadband connection with a SIM card backup before switching.
For more guidance, see our Careline and Landline Switch-Off 2027 guide.
Have questions about switching to Digital Voice?
Book a quick call — we’ll guide you.
3 Demographics We Are Here To Help
Elderly and Impaired
Home-Based Businesses
Businesses
Elderly and Impaired
Technology is moving incredibly fast and not everyone can keep up. Most people have comfortably adjusted to using their Mobile Phone for all incoming and outgoing calls, but some people still prefer their landline.
Sadly, some people are being left behind. VoIP is going to be the replacement for all landline connectivity in the future and people of a certain age, learning, or physical disability need, or prefer familiarity.
With our VoIP system we can provide an “Adapter” where the customer can use their existing Landline Handset.
Familiarity takes away the stress and worry caused by new technology. So, whether it is a set of Cordless Phones dotted around the house, a phone with big buttons, a certain audible level, a dementia phone and more, VoIP customers can continue to use a phone they are familiar with.
Home-Based Businesses
Home-based Businesses have grown exponentially over the last few decades. Going from ‘start ups’ to established, thriving and growing businesses.
Such as…
- Roofers, Plumbers, Electricians
- Web Designers & Photographers
- Online Sellers
- Landscapers & Tree Surgeons
- Cake Makers
- DJ’s & Kids Entertainers
- Painters & Decorators
- Car Valeters & Cleaners
- Language & Music Teachers
- Beauticians, Make Up Artists & Nail Technicians
- And so many more
Home Based Businesses don’t require big offices, staff, and complicated phone systems and costs. A mobile number or a home landline number, which already exists and is paid for, makes perfect sense in the early days when there may not be too many incoming calls.
Mobile Phone Number Problem
Mistrust and damage caused by ‘Rogue traders’.
There is a growing pattern that customers generally prefer to use businesses with a ‘local’ number. A local number provides confidence that the company is legitimate and trustworthy.
Landline Phone Number Problem
A potential customer calls and the business owner is not home.
Due to so many choices available and eagerness on the customer’s behalf, the caller often phones the next company on their list – often going with the next business that answers their phone first. Missing the call can lead to missing out on possible income.
VoIP solves both.
Converting the Landline Number to VoIP allows the Business Owner to receive those same calls via an App on their Mobile Phone regardless of where they are. They never need to miss another business opportunity again.
VoIP dramatically reduces international call costs, when abroad, it’s the same as if they were in the UK, it’s just Data.
Want a Phone at home as well? Best of both worlds? No problem, have both! The VoIP Adapter works in conjunction with the VoIP App.
Businesses
Regardless of whether there are two, two hundred, or even more staff members, every business is different in what they do and how they operate. Some businesses have multiple telephone lines so they can make and receive several calls at the same time, transfer calls to and from one another, set their own Voicemail, have ‘On hold’ music and so much more.
Each business is unique, and the way we prefer to operate is to have a friendly chat to find out what the client already has in place and what their ideal situation/preference would be moving forward.
We then try to accommodate their needs … within reason of course!
VoIP, overall is flexible and scalable. You can quickly and easily add and remove bits as required. This means it can grow as your business grows and we look forward to working with you to see that happen.
What you can do now
Keep your number
Move your current landline to digital voice. Quick transfer, no fuss.
Use your existing phone
Plug a VoIP Adapter into your router to keep your current handset.
Use VoIP on your mobile
Make and receive calls on mobile using your landline number.
Future-proof your setup
Scale easily — add users, call routing & voicemail features anytime.
Have a Careline, Alarm or Emergency Pendant?
Some older careline / alert devices may not work after the landline switch-off.
- Check your device compatibility
- Ask your provider about a digital-ready upgrade
- Choose a unit with broadband + SIM backup
Making sure vulnerable users stay connected is essential during the digital voice transition.
Careline Guidance & Checklist