Why Your Business Should Switch to VoIP in 2026

The UK's traditional copper phone network (PSTN) is being retired. If your business still uses analogue phone lines, you need to act now. But this isn't just about avoiding disruption — switching to VoIP can genuinely save your business money while giving you better features.

What is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) means making phone calls over the internet instead of traditional copper phone lines. Instead of a physical phone line coming into your premises, your calls travel over your broadband connection. You can use desk phones, a mobile app, or a computer — or all three at once.

The PSTN switch-off

BT (Openreach) is retiring the UK's analogue phone network. Traditional PSTN and ISDN lines are being switched off across the country, with the full shutdown completing by January 2027. No new PSTN lines have been available since September 2023.

If your business still uses traditional phone lines, they will stop working. This isn't optional — every business needs to migrate to a digital alternative.

Why VoIP is better (not just cheaper)

Most businesses that switch to VoIP don't just save money — they get features that were previously only available to large corporates:

• Call recording — automatically record every call for training, compliance or dispute resolution
• Auto-attendant — professional call routing ("Press 1 for sales, 2 for support") without a receptionist
• Mobile app — take business calls on your mobile using your office number, even when you're not in the office
• Hunt groups — ring multiple phones simultaneously so calls never go unanswered
• Voicemail to email — receive voicemail transcriptions directly in your inbox
• Microsoft Teams integration — make and receive calls directly within Teams
• Number portability — keep your existing business number when you switch

How much does VoIP cost?

VoIP is typically 30–50% cheaper than traditional phone lines. A standard PSTN line costs around £20–£30/month before call charges. A VoIP line with unlimited UK calls typically costs £8–£15/month per user, with call recording and all the features above included.

Hardware costs vary. You can use your existing smartphones and computers with a softphone app (free), or buy dedicated VoIP desk phones (£50–£200 per handset). Many providers offer hardware on a monthly rental to avoid upfront costs.

What you need to get started

• Reliable broadband — VoIP uses very little bandwidth (about 100kbps per call), but your connection needs to be stable. Business broadband with an SLA is recommended
• A VoIP provider — we work with Evonex, a UK-based cloud telephony platform with 99.99% uptime
• Phones (optional) — desk phones, softphone apps on your computer/mobile, or a combination

Can I keep my phone number?

Yes. Number porting is standard and straightforward. Your existing business numbers transfer to the new VoIP system and callers won't notice any difference. The porting process typically takes 1–2 weeks and we handle it for you.