BT is spearheading a push for the rapid phasing out of the outdated copper landline network in response to increasing faults. Recently, BT has called on the UK’s critical national infrastructure providers to hasten their transition from the ageing Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). This move follows a concerning 45% increase in major resilience incidents last year, according to Ofcom‘s Connected Nations report.
The delicate nature of the PSTN makes it more difficult to maintain, heightening risks for essential services, such as fire alarms and water monitoring sensors. Despite the urgency, around 60% of BT’s critical national infrastructure customers have yet to formulate a migration plan.
Industries like energy and water are leading by example, with 80% and 64% of BT’s respective customers in these sectors preparing for the digital switch. With the traditional copper network becoming unreliable, BT emphasizes that relying on it for critical public services is too risky. The company’s CEO, Bas Burger, stated, “It’s simply too risky to run the UK’s essential public services on outdated networks.”
To assist in this transition, BT has committed to supporting these providers by reviewing their technology, testing device compatibility, and facilitating the migration to digital networks by the end of 2025. The UK government is backing this move with the PSTN Critical National Infrastructure Charter, providing necessary safeguards during the shift.
The shift to digital connectivity is inevitable and necessary. The transition is not only about upgrading systems; it’s about ensuring reliability and safety for essential services.
