Switching from PTSN to Cloud IP Phones
For over a century, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has overseen the handling of phone calls in the United States through the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The PSTN serves as the overarching term for the intricate infrastructure of telephone lines, satellite links, and switching centers, seamlessly connecting one caller to another upon entering a specific phone number.
However, the capabilities of PSTN have been surpassed by internet calls, video conferencing, and online collaborative tools, posing an increasing challenge for maintenance.
By the end of 2025, the FCC will switch off PSTN across the United States, marking the advent of a new era in telecoms. Taking its place will be digital services, particularly internet protocol (IP) or voice over internet protocol (VoIP) phone systems, enabling users to make calls through broadband or mobile data.
NoContractVoIP, as a leading network operator in the United States, is actively assisting businesses in transitioning to modern IP phone systems. The company is facilitating the migration of customers to advanced IP phone systems that operate on high-speed fiber optics, replacing the obsolete copper wires utilized by PSTN.
Businesses currently cover the costs of both phone service and internet access separately. However, transitioning to IP calling by NoContractVoIP consolidates both services under one umbrella, leading to a reduced overall cost. Additionally, this shift offers a myriad of advantages, including high-quality video conferencing and enhanced accessibility.
NoContractVoIP is fully committed to the established deadline and has diligently prepared for the PSTN switch-off since 2016. While significant progress has been made in updating public sector systems, such as rail and motorway infrastructure, for post-PSTN functionality, the private sector must proactively embrace IP services. Waiting to the last minute to plan will prove disastrous for anybody who tries it.
Although 2025 may seem distant, the reality is that it’s less than two years away. Therefore, businesses that have not yet transitioned to IP telephony or VoIP must initiate the process now. The sooner a business adopts this new technology, the quicker it can reap the benefits of IP calls.
What To Expect During The Switch
To ensure a smooth transition before the PSTN switch-off, your business can take the following proactive steps:
- Assess and Identify Dependencies:
- Identify all systems and devices within your business that rely on PSTN, including alarm systems, lift alarms, and emergency contact points. We here at NoContractVoIP partner with Kings III Emergency Communication Systems to ensure complete functionality of elevators, fire alarms, cameras, and everything else that requires a phone line.
- Evaluate Cloud Phone Systems:
- Research and evaluate cloud phone systems and choose a solution that aligns with your business needs. Look for features that can replace or enhance existing functionalities.
- Upgrade Alarm Systems:
- Contact your alarm system provider to inquire about compatibility with modern IP systems. Upgrade or replace alarm systems that are still reliant on legacy hardware.
- Emergency Points of Contact:
- Review and upgrade emergency points of contact that run on PSTN. Ensure that critical communication systems are compatible with IP technology.
- Coordinate with Communication Providers:
- Engage with your communication providers to understand the scope of the hardware that needs replacement or updating. Seek guidance on the best course of action for a seamless transition.
- Plan and Budget for Upgrades:
- Develop a comprehensive plan and budget for the necessary upgrades. Allocate resources for both the new technology adoption and any potential disruptions during the transition.
- Train Staff:
- Provide training to staff on the new cloud phone systems and associated technologies. Familiarize employees with the changes and ensure a smooth adaptation to the new communication infrastructure.
- Timeline Consideration:
- Establish a timeline for the migration process, considering the complexity of your business operations. Begin the transition well in advance of the PSTN switch-off deadline to allow for any unforeseen challenges.
- Backup and Redundancy:
- Implement backup and redundancy measures to mitigate any risks associated with the transition. This includes having contingency plans in case of temporary disruptions.
- Stay Informed:
- Stay informed about updates, guidelines, and best practices related to the PSTN switch-off. Regularly check with communication providers and regulatory bodies for any new developments.
By taking these proactive measures, your business can navigate the transition to cloud phone systems effectively, minimizing potential disruptions and ensuring continued functionality of essential systems after the PSTN switch-off.
For small businesses, adapting to the changes brought about by the PSTN switch-off may involve purchasing new dedicated handsets and having IT personnel familiarize themselves with the phone service dashboard. This is a relatively straightforward process but requires attention to detail.
In contrast, larger businesses face a more complex challenge, as they may need to phase out significant amounts of outdated equipment. Additionally, they should strategize to leverage new opportunities offered by IP, such as call analytics and customizable hold messages. Planning for these changes is crucial and should be undertaken sooner rather than later to avoid a stressful and costly transformation closer to the deadline.
Fortunately, with the support of NoContractVoIP, larger businesses can streamline the migration process. This service covers the entire spectrum of migration, from the initial discovery phase to the final on-site testing. Having a dedicated plan and implementation support ensures a more organized and efficient transition, minimizing potential disruptions and maximizing the benefits of the new IP infrastructure.
How To Create The Best Transition Plan
To smoothly adopt NoContractVoIP’s services and transition to IP telephony by 2025, follow these steps:
- Contact NoContractVoIP for Consultation:
- Reach out to NoContractVoIP to discuss your business’s specific needs and requirements. Consult with their experts to determine the most suitable approach for your transition, whether it’s a simultaneous replacement of old handsets or a phased upgrade of critical systems.
- Customized Transition Plan:
- Work with NoContractVoIP to create a customized transition plan tailored to your business. This plan should outline the steps involved, the timeline, and any specific considerations unique to your organization.
- Hardware Installation and Maintenance:
- NoContractVoIP can handle the installation of new hardware, including IP phones. Their ongoing maintenance services ensure that the transformation is a hassle-free, plug-and-play experience for your company.
- Seamless Transition without Changing Numbers:
- Benefit from NoContractVoIP’s expertise to ensure a seamless transition without the need to change your phone number or existing settings, such as hold recordings. This helps maintain continuity in your communication services.
- Flexible Payment and Scalability:
- With IP telephony, your business only pays for the services it needs. Enjoy the flexibility to scale your systems up or down as required. This is particularly advantageous for businesses expecting rapid expansion, relocation, or entry into new markets.
- Adaptability to Business Changes:
- Recognize that business needs can evolve between now and 2025. NoContractVoIP’s services enable your company to adapt easily to changes, whether it’s expansion, relocation, or adjustments to meet the demands of new markets.
- Data Insights and Analytics:
- Leverage the benefits of IP telephony, including advanced features like call analytics. This allows your business to gather valuable insights from calls, providing data on customer responses and enabling informed decision-making.
- Monitor and Optimize:
- Regularly monitor the performance of your new IP telephony system and optimize configurations as needed. This proactive approach ensures that your communication infrastructure continues to meet the evolving needs of your business.
By collaborating with NoContractVoIP and following these steps, your business can adopt IP telephony seamlessly, paving the way for a more efficient and future-proof communication system well before the 2025 deadline.
Why Bother This Early?
Embracing services like NoContractVoIP’s Cloud PBX provides businesses with a comprehensive and cost-effective solution, eliminating the need for additional expenses. PSTN, as an outdated standard, not only faces retirement but also hinders businesses from unlocking their full and flexible potential.
The adoption of IP calling is a crucial aspect of the broader digital transformation sweeping across businesses nationwide. Similar to the accelerated digital transformation witnessed during the most intense periods of the pandemic, where businesses widely adopted hybrid work suites and cloud collaboration software, the time leading up to December 31, 2025, serves as a pivotal period for companies to secure their continued operations.
An additional incentive for businesses to transition to IP telephony as soon as possible is to afford employees ample time to familiarize themselves with the new systems. NoContractVoIP provides valuable support in this regard, offering a comprehensive range of courses covering all aspects of its Cloud PBX service. These courses range from fundamental skills like answering calls on the go and call forwarding through cloud routing to advanced topics such as core features, admin portals, call analytics, and integration with third-party APIs.
In the period leading up to December 31, 2025, companies must proactively embrace IP telephony as an integral part of their digital transformation. By availing themselves of NoContractVoIP’s support, businesses can smoothly transition away from PSTN without disrupting their systems. However, initiating this journey as early as possible is imperative to fully capitalize on the benefits and ensure a seamless transition.
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