BT has called on the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) providers to transition away from the aging analog copper network by the end of 2025. This transition is crucial for ensuring that the nation’s essential services remain secure and efficient as the country prepares for the eventual shutdown of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by 2027.
The Risks of Outdated Copper Networks for Public Services
The transition from analog to digital connectivity is critical for the future-proofing of essential services. BT highlighted that key public systems, such as water monitoring sensors, emergency lines on roads, fire alarms, and lift alarms, still rely on the outdated PSTN network. As these systems depend on analog connections, they face increasing risks of failure due to the fragility of the aging copper infrastructure.
Bas Burger, CEO of Business at BT, emphasized the urgency of the switch. He stated, “With the aging copper landline network becoming increasingly fragile, it’s simply too risky to run the UK’s essential public services on outdated networks.” He further urged CNI providers to act swiftly and transition to modern, digital networks.
BT’s Efforts to Facilitate the Transition
In 2023, BT successfully migrated nearly 300,000 legacy business lines from analog to digital. However, a significant number of CNI providers, especially in sectors like healthcare and transportation, have not yet formalized their strategies for the transition. According to BT, 60% of CNI customers were still reliant on analog connectivity as of December 2024.
BT is committed to helping these customers switch to more reliable digital networks ahead of the analog switch-off. The company is working closely with businesses to review their technology estates, test critical devices, and facilitate the transition by the end of 2025.
The Challenges of Transitioning from PSTN
The shift from PSTN to digital services represents a once-in-a-generation challenge. For many industries, adapting to newer, more advanced technologies can be complex and resource-intensive. However, the need for this change is underscored by the increasing vulnerability of the copper network. BT’s goal is to retire the PSTN network by January 31, 2027, two years later than initially planned, to ensure a smooth and well-supported transition.
The company is also focused on delivering full fiber broadband to 25 million premises by 2026, further strengthening the nation’s digital infrastructure.
The Economic Impact of the Transition
The transition to digital networks will have significant economic benefits. BT’s recent sale of surplus copper cables generated £105 million ($131 million), demonstrating the growing value of fiber and other modern technologies. By the 2030s, BT’s subsidiary Openreach plans to recover up to 200,000 tonnes of copper, aligning with customer migrations to more sustainable, future-proofed networks.
Key Takeaways and Urgency for CNI Providers
BT’s call for action underscores the urgency for all CNI providers to adopt digital infrastructure before it’s too late. The risks of maintaining services on outdated copper networks are no longer sustainable, and organizations must act now to ensure continued operational integrity.
The transition will require forward-thinking strategies, robust planning, and investment in modern technologies to guarantee that essential public services can thrive in the digital age.
FAQ Section
1. What is the PSTN switch-off, and why is it important?
The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is the traditional copper-based telephone system that has been in use for decades. Its switch-off is essential to make way for more modern, reliable, and efficient digital networks, such as fiber broadband, which will better support future communication needs.
2. Why are CNI providers still using analog copper networks?
Many CNI providers have yet to transition due to the complexity, cost, and time required for the shift. However, BT is working with these organizations to review and upgrade their infrastructure before the 2027 deadline.
3. How can businesses prepare for the transition from copper networks?
Businesses should begin by assessing their existing systems, identifying any services relying on copper connections, and collaborating with service providers like BT to implement a clear transition strategy.
4. What happens if CNI providers don’t transition in time?
If CNI providers fail to transition, they risk service disruptions, reduced reliability, and potentially greater vulnerabilities in their systems, which could affect essential public services and operations.
5. How does BT support businesses during the transition?
BT is helping businesses by offering reviews of their technology estates, testing critical devices, and assisting with the migration to digital solutions, ensuring the process is as seamless as possible.
