The telecommunications industry is filled with complex terminology and jargon, making it difficult to keep up with the latest developments and changes. Below are some of the most important terms to demystify the upcoming PSTN Switch Off and the associated terms that telecoms companies use:
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN): The traditional landline phone network that uses copper wires to transmit voice calls, allowing people to make and receive phone calls to one another
PSTN Switch Off: Refers to the process of phasing out of the traditional telephone network and transitioning to newer technologies like internet-based communication, leading to the discontinuation of copper-based phone services by the end of 2025
Stop sell: Refers to a point in time when telecommunication providers will no longer be accepting new orders, be able to make changes to, or upgrade any copper-based products (in this instance, the national stop sell on September 5, 2023)
All Internet Protocol (IP): Modern communication system where voice, data, and other types of information are transmitted over IP networks, eliminating the need for separate networks for different types of communication
Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL): A broadband connection that works through the copper wires of your existing phone line with download speeds of up to 17 mb/s*
Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC): Internet connection type where fibre optic cables are used to connect to a street cabinet, with the final connection to the premises made through existing copper wires*
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): Internet connection type where fibre optic cables are used to provide direct, high-speed connectivity from the service provider's network to the user's premises
Single order Generic Ethernet Access (SoGEA): A type of broadband connection that provides high-speed internet access without the need for a traditional phone line
Leased Line/Dedicated Line/Ethernet: A dedicated and private high-speed internet connection that is exclusively rented by a business for their communication needs
Single Analogue Line: Traditional telephone line with one phone number that utilises copper wires to make and receive calls over the PSTN network*
Multi Analogue Line: Traditional telephone line with one phone number that can take multiple calls at the same time. This line is also a part of the PSTN*
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN): A network that allows the digital transmission of voice, video and other services simultaneously, using the traditional PSTN network*
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) Line: A digital phone line that allows for the simultaneous transmission of voice, data, and video signals over a traditional phone network*
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)/Hosted voice: A technology that allows voice calls to be made over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, offering cost-effective and flexible communication options
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) Trunk: A virtual communication channel that enables voice, video, and other unified communication services over an IP network, replacing traditional phone lines. It's an on-premise / traditional system that has been upgraded or added onto in order to operate over an IP network and acts as a middleman between PSTN lines and VoIP
3G: The third generation of wireless mobile telecommunications technology*
Internet of Things (IoT): A network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other objects that are embedded with sensors and connected to the internet, enabling them to collect and exchange data wirelessly
5G: The latest iteration of mo
bile technology, designed to significantly enhance the speed and responsiveness of wireless networks, enabling a more reliable and seamless connection for a wide range of devices and applications
* These telecom products and services are being retired, as technology develops and connectivity infrastructures are upgraded.
If you would like expert advice on how the PSTN Switch Off will effect your business, please get in touch with our team of experts. Call us on 01603 550044 or email info@purenexus.co.uk
