The telecommunications industry is evolving rapidly. Dynamic changes are taking place, and many old technologies are being replaced with emerging ones. One such radical development is the shutdown of ISDN. Now, you may not be very familiar with the term, and even wonder what is meant by it- let us understand it a bit more closely.
Since the decision is final now, and ISDN services will be shut down by 2025, it is time to think proactively. You need to make decisions for your organization, and lookout for a replacement technology. There is nothing better than VoIP services, as it will work over an internet connection and provide apex audio quality. The best aspect about VoIP phone systems is that it doesn’t run over copper wired lines, rather a high-speed internet connection is all that is required for quick installation.
A hosted phone system supported by progressive and modern VoIP technology can have a number of benefits for any kind of business organization. It will make sure that your team members remain highly accessible in the current digital age. VoIP phone solutions encourage mobility as employees can make or receive calls from any corner of the globe- they do not remain restricted to the physical office location.
The rapid growth of globalization has made it necessary for business organizations to invest in a seamless communication system. Borders do not bind businesses anymore; rather they often expand operations to buzzing international commercial destinations. In such cases, getting a VoIP phone system is the ideal solution. They can help you breakthrough a new overseas market, connect with local audiences, and enhance your brand reputation.
Why ISDN
We have widely used ISDN across UK both at homes and in offices. But soon ISDN will become history. It is due to be switched off by 2025 in the UK. No more new orders will be placed from this year. Many businesses have already moved to new VoIP systems and they are noticing a number of key benefits.
What exactly is ISDN and why is it being switched off?
ISDN is an acronym for Integrated Service Digital Network. It is a circuit-switched telecommunication channel that enables users to send voice and data signals over digital lines at the same time. It was launched in the year 1986 as and innovation to replace the obsolete landline technology.
Business organizations were extremely excited about ISDN technology at that time as it both an analog phone line, as well as support video conferencing facilities. In fact, at that particular time, ISDN offered the highest speed of the internet (128 kbps). This meant that data could be sent easily, without any line disturbances, or audio distortion.
However, with the passage of time, ISDN technology is now considered outdated. The introduction of high-speed internet access networks such as DSL, WAN, cable modems has replaced this once popular telecommunication system. It is still used by organizations as a backup in case the main phone line fails for some purpose.
VoIP is a phone system that allows for making calls over the internet. It is essentially a virtual telephone line, which allows for the cost associated with phone lines and hardware to be dramatically reduced.
In addition to the cost savings, there are far more benefits for businesses when it comes to flexibility, scalability and future proofing.
A digital line provides many benefits when it comes to video conferencing, managing call directions, increasing or decreasing the number of connections and transferring calls between locations.
What can you do to prepare?
Although the shutdown won’t officially happen until 2025, it’s still important to start thinking about how to prepare for the ISDN switch-off.
Switching from ISDN to a VoIP phone system isn’t as complicated. But you do have to make sure your business has good enough internet connection to deliver VoIP. Luckily, in this day and age, most businesses will.
Is your business compatible with a VoIP system?
Ideally, you would need internet speeds above 2Mbps for a small business, but it depends on the type of business you are in. Larger business with more demand may need faster speeds at around 5Mbps.
You’ll also need to check that your current phone system within the business will support VoIP. If it doesn’t, you may need to replace your phone system. If you don't want the hassle of that you can try a hosted telephony system i.e. the Cloud.
Easily switch for a better connection
Savincom can help you easily migrate to a new hosted telephony system to experience better business communication and collaboration. We can help you switch and get your new system deployed with minimal disruption to your business.
If you'd like to know more about upgrading to a VoIP system, get in touch today. We will help you make the switch. 
