What is VoIP and how does it work for businesses?

VoIP transmits voice calls over your internet connection instead of traditional phone lines. It requires stable broadband or a leased line. Businesses typically save 40-60% on call costs compared to traditional telephony. Over 4.9 million UK businesses now use VoIP.

When is the UK PSTN switch-off happening?

The PSTN switch-off is scheduled for January 2027. Around 2.4 million UK businesses still operate on PSTN or ISDN lines. FTTC broadband that relies on PSTN copper lines will also cease to function. Businesses must migrate to IP-based telephony and connectivity before the deadline.

Can I keep my existing phone numbers with VoIP?

Yes. UK businesses can port their existing geographic and non-geographic numbers to their new VoIP provider. Number porting requires a minimum lead time of 4-7 working days. Under the PSTN switch-off, phone numbers are not lost — they transfer through the porting process.

How much does business VoIP cost in the UK?

Cloud-hosted VoIP typically costs £8-£25 per user per month depending on features. This includes calls, voicemail, mobile apps, and call recording. Most businesses save 40-60% compared to traditional PSTN costs. Microsoft Teams calling plans offer another option within the M365 ecosystem.

VoIP vs Traditional Landline: Which Is Best for UK Businesses?

VoIP offers lower costs, more features, and flexibility. With the PSTN switch-off completing by 2027, all UK businesses need to move to VoIP. The question is when, not whether.

Key Facts

2.4mUK businesses still on PSTN or ISDN lines

40-60%typical call cost savings when switching to VoIP

97%of UK workers say communication impacts daily efficiency

Jan 2027deadline for UK PSTN switch-off

Last updated: March 2026

VoIP vs Landline: Feature Comparison

Feature	VoIP£8–£25/user/moRecommended	Landline£15–£30/line + calls
Monthly cost	Lower	Higher
Call recording		Addon
Mobile app
Remote working support
CRM integration
Auto-attendant		Addon
Multi-site support	Seamless	Complex
Future-proof	Yes	PSTN ending 2027

The Clear Choice

VoIP is right for every business

Lower costs, better features, remote working support, and it is future-proof. The PSTN switch-off means landlines will not be available after 2027. Every UK business needs a VoIP migration plan.

Landlines are being phased out

BT and Openreach are switching off the PSTN by January 2027. Analogue and ISDN lines will no longer be available. If you have not migrated, plan your transition now.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

A 20-user VoIP system costs approximately £160–£500/month including all features. The equivalent landline setup costs £300–£600/month plus per-minute call charges. VoIP saves 30–50% on telephony costs while adding features like call recording, mobile apps, and CRM integration.

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The AMVIA Recommendation

Switch to VoIP now rather than waiting for the 2027 PSTN switch-off deadline. Early movers benefit from better number porting options, lower migration costs, and time to optimise their setup before the forced deadline. AMVIA will port your existing numbers, provide handsets or softphones, and manage the full migration — with no downtime on your existing numbers during the switchover.

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