Landline switch-off – what you need to know before 2027
Farming businesses that still rely on analogue landlines should act now to avoid disruption when the UK’s digital switchover takes place in January 2027.
Our asks on connectivity
- Prioritise the Shared Rural Network.
- Inclusive delivery support schemes.
- Digital skills training.
- Clear delivery timescales.
The UK's analogue landline network is set to be switched off by January 2027, marking a major change in how telephone services are delivered across the country.
The industry-led transition will move all landline services from the traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) to digital, internet-based technology.
While this may sound significant, for most people the change should be straightforward. Landlines are not disappearing; they will simply operate through a broadband connection rather than copper telephone lines.
However, the switch could present challenges for some rural households and farm businesses, particularly where internet connectivity is poor or where critical equipment relies on traditional phone lines.
What is changing?
The UK's ageing copper telephone network is being retired and replaced with digital voice services, sometimes known as Digital Voice or All-IP.
Key points include:
- Traditional analogue landlines will no longer operate after January 2027.
- Telephone calls will be delivered via broadband connections instead of copper lines.
- Telecommunications providers are migrating customers in phases between now and 2027.
- Most customers will be contacted directly by their provider and moved to a digital service automatically.
How will this affect farm businesses?
Members who currently rely on a traditional home or business landline will need to ensure they have moved to a digital voice service before the switch-off deadline.
While most providers are managing the migration process, the NFU is encouraging members to contact their provider and understand when the change will take place.
A key concern is the impact on devices that rely on analogue telephone lines. These could include:
- Security and alarm systems
- Remote monitoring equipment
- Lift emergency phones
- Payment and transaction systems
- Other connected devices using a landline connection
If these systems are not compatible with digital services, they may stop functioning once the analogue network is switched off. You might need to upgrade your device to make sure it is compatible, check if it needs to have its own battery and network back-up, or purchase an adaptor to ensure it continues to function correctly.
If you are unsure about how a device in your home or business might be affected, we recommend you contact the equipment supplier or device manufacturer to find out whether it will remain functional on a digital phone line.
5 things you can do to prepare
- Confirm your migration date with your telecommunications provider.
- Identify any alarms, monitoring systems, payment devices or other equipment connected to an analogue line.
- Contact equipment manufacturers to check digital compatibility.
- Review broadband performance and explore upgrades if necessary.
- Ask providers about resilience measures, including battery backup and support during power outages.
- Develop alternative communication arrangements if operating in remote areas with limited connectivity.
Connectivity challenges in rural areas
Unlike traditional landlines, digital voice services depend on both broadband connectivity and a power supply.
For some rural properties and farm businesses, unreliable broadband could affect the quality and reliability of telephone services. Members experiencing poor internet connectivity are encouraged to discuss available options with their provider as soon as possible.
Power cuts are another consideration.
Digital voice services will not work automatically during an outage unless suitable backup arrangements are in place.
Members who rely on their phone line for telecare services or have specific vulnerability needs should speak to their provider about battery backup solutions and priority support schemes.
NFU asks on rural connectivity
The NFU is calling on the government to deliver mobile and broadband connectivity to rural areas including:
- The Shared Rural Network to remain a priority with the Total Not-Spot commitments to be delivered in full by 2027.
- All broadband delivery support schemes must be applicable to all types of broadband and not just fibre.
- Rural and agricultural specific digital skill training must be widely offered and supported by government.
- Clear times must be laid out to ensure that targets of delivery are being met.
