Marcus Walker, Olarm Product Manager at OPTEX, looks at the UK’s transition away from the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been the backbone of the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure since the first phone lines were introduced back in 1875.
Since its inception, it has consisted of hardwired copper cables that connect individual phone lines to the telephone exchange.
The equipment, however, has become increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain, and is now reaching the end of its life.
The demands of 21st century communications have made it evident that the PSTN is no longer fit for purpose.
While the PSTN switch off was initially set for December this year, BT announced last year that it would delay the deadline, of both the PSTN and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), until 31 January 2027 to ensure a smoother transition for all.
As part of this transition, however, BT is sticking to its guns with the closure of its Redcare division this year, which will cease all operations on 1 August 2025.
This is where security providers and installers need to be ready.
The phasing out of the PSTN, ISDN and BT Redcare mean it is time to make the switch to a fully digital network that uses the latest Internet Protocol (IP) and digital communications.
It goes beyond voice services; any equipment that relies on the old networks and technology, including security alarms, door entry systems, CCTV cameras and more will need to be upgraded.
If not, these systems will become redundant as soon as the local network lines are switched off, leaving premises instantly vulnerable to potential intrusion and lacking in any meaningful response.
It is, however, worth pointing out that as the wheels have been in motion for several years, many have already taken steps towards upgrading to a fully digital network.
Indeed, it is likely that new systems installed within the last five years will almost all be digital rather than analogue, ensuring preparedness for the big switch off.
It’s equally worth noting the continued development and advancement of new technologies across the security industry, and the positive effect this is having.
Cloud-based systems offer a number of benefits and advantages over PSTN-reliant systems to installers and end-users alike.
A number of these benefits are centred around enhanced levels of convenience and user experience – for instance, cloud-based systems enable centralised management across an entire site, with the ability to remotely monitor and control alarms.
They also provide scalability, with effortless integration of new sites or premises.
Through the cloud, multiple sites across multiple geographies can be optimised individually, at a reasonable cost and without disrupting day-to-day activities.
More and more companies are offering a subscription-paid software-as-a-service solution, which increases the security system’s flexibility and the choice of the customer.
The other key benefit of moving intruder alarms and alarm monitoring into the cloud is that it enables greater integration with other security systems and devices, which not only simplifies the alarm verification process but also provides a cost-effective solution to any future upgrades.
While many have already and/or are in the process of transitioning away from PSTN-based systems to a fully digital future, there are also many who will need to begin the process of upgrading.
Although the prospect of this may sound daunting, it doesn’t need to be, as there are a number of options available that provide a cost-effective and flexible future-proof security solution.
One such solution is the Olarm MAX digital communicator and its smart, user-friendly app. Olarm MAX is a discrete, graded dual-path (DP) digital communicator that can be quickly and easily installed alongside either new or existing alarm panels to make them ‘smart’.
Better yet, as an agnostic solution, Olarm MAX supports compatibility with all major alarm brands and manufacturers.
This enhanced user experience is matched by ease of installation, as using Olarm MAX removes the need to replace the entire system or undertake any difficult re-wiring.
The system can also be configured remotely and firmware updates pushed to the device.
As the industry transitions from an analogue to a wholly digital future, technologies such as Olarm MAX will help make the switch less painful.
They help deliver not only a simple upgrade solution, but also to breathe new life into legacy security systems with the flexibility to literally control your entire security system from the palm of your hand.
The Olarm MAX will be on display at The Security Event in April, visit the OPTEX stand at 5/G25.
This article was originally published in the April 2025 Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.
