How to Switch from a Traditional Landline to VoIP

Why Traditional Landlines Are Being Phased Out

The UK telephone network as we know it is changing. BT Openreach is switching off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by 2027, which means traditional analogue landlines will cease to exist. Every business currently using a standard landline will need to move to a Voice over IP (VoIP) alternative.

Rather than waiting until the last minute, switching now gives you the advantage of planning the transition on your terms, accessing better features immediately, and starting to save money straight away.

What You Need to Switch to VoIP

The requirements for moving from a traditional landline to a hosted VoIP system are straightforward:

Reliable Broadband

You need a stable broadband connection with sufficient bandwidth for voice calls. For most small businesses, a standard fibre connection (FTTC or FTTP) is more than adequate. Each call uses approximately 80–100 kbps, so even a modest connection can handle multiple simultaneous calls.

IP Phones or Softphone Apps

You will need either IP desk phones that connect to your network, or softphone applications that run on your existing computers and mobile devices. Many businesses use a mix of both — desk phones in the office and softphone apps for remote workers.

A VoIP Provider

Choose a provider who will manage the transition for you, including number porting, system configuration and ongoing support. An independent provider like Connection Technologies can recommend the best platform for your specific needs.

Keeping Your Phone Numbers

One of the most common concerns when switching from a landline to VoIP is whether you can keep your existing phone numbers. The answer is almost always yes. Number porting transfers your current numbers to your new VoIP system, so your customers and contacts continue to reach you on the same numbers.

The porting process typically takes 5–10 working days. During this time, your old landline continues to work normally. On the switchover date, calls are seamlessly redirected to your new VoIP system.

What Happens to Connected Equipment?

Many businesses have equipment connected to their landline beyond just telephones. Here is what to consider:

Fax Machines

Traditional fax machines do not work reliably over VoIP. The best solution is to switch to an online fax service or fax-to-email, which is more convenient and eliminates the need for a dedicated fax line.

Alarm Systems

Many intruder alarm systems use a landline to communicate with the monitoring centre. Before switching, contact your alarm provider to discuss alternatives. Most modern alarm panels can use a GSM communicator (mobile network) or IP connection instead.

PDQ Card Terminals

Older card payment terminals that dial out over a phone line will need to be replaced with IP or mobile-connected terminals. Most payment providers now offer 4G or Wi-Fi terminals as standard.

Lift Emergency Phones

Lift phones in commercial buildings often use analogue lines. These will need to be converted to a GSM or VoIP-based solution before the PSTN switch-off.

Timeline and Process

A typical landline-to-VoIP migration follows this timeline:

• Week 1 — initial assessment, broadband check, and solution design
• Week 2 — system configuration, handset ordering and number porting request submitted
• Weeks 2–3 — handsets delivered and pre-configured; staff training arranged
• Week 3–4 — numbers port across; go live on the new system
• Week 4+ — old landline service cancelled; fine-tuning and optimisation

For a straightforward small business setup, the entire process can be completed in as little as two weeks.

Cost Savings

Switching from a traditional landline to VoIP delivers immediate cost benefits:

• Line rental savings — VoIP costs £8–20 per user vs £20–35 per landline
• Call cost savings — most VoIP packages include unlimited UK calls
• No maintenance costs — the hosted platform is maintained by your provider
• No hardware depreciation — no expensive on-premise PBX to replace

Most businesses save 30–50% on their total phone costs after switching.

Features You Gain

Moving from a basic landline to a hosted business phone system unlocks a wealth of features:

• Professional auto attendant and call menus
• Voicemail to email
• Call recording
• Mobile and desktop apps
• Ring groups and call queuing
• Call analytics and reporting
• Video conferencing
• CRM integration

These features are included as standard with most hosted VoIP packages — no additional hardware or software required.

Ready to switch from your landline to VoIP? Get a free quote from Connection Technologies and we will manage the entire transition for you.