The big WLR switch off – it’s time to act
The WLR Withdrawal process has begun; are you ready?
BT has announced its intention to close the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) by the end of January 2027.
This will impact a wide range of communications products, especially those that use Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) services. The switch-off is sometimes referred to as WLR withdrawal, as all these products will be removed from sale by September 2023 in preparation for the move to next generation digital services.
You may be hesitant to change from your existing services, however there are great benefits to be gained from migration to new fibre-based solutions that bring improved features, speed and can reduce operating costs.
Is your business ready?
You can’t wait until 2027, exchanges are being phased out now. We recommend a rapid audit of your network to understand how many connections you have and of what type.
Depending on the nature of your business, these could be anything from simple voice lines to DSL broadband or even building alarm circuits. Whatever existing WLR services you have, there are a number of easy migration paths to ensure that your business is uninterrupted.
How will it affect you?
WLR withdrawal may affect you or your organisation in more ways than you think. If you have ISDN, PSTN or DSL Broadband services you will need to migrate them to new digital alternatives.
The complete shutdown will happen in early 2027, however from now on services are gradually being withdrawn.
What are the advantages of the new digital services?
The new services are fully fibre based and completely digital. Which means that they are highly resilient and integrate seamlessly with other next generation services. They are faster, more upgradeable and are much better value. Drive operating efficiency, productivity and collaboration with high-speed digital connectivity and easily access Maintel digital workplace tools, secure networking and customer experience solutions.
At Maintel we are ready to help you prepare for WLR withdrawal and reduce your risk as you move to a digital future. We will work with you to discover and audit your existing estate, define your digital roadmap and design a practical plan for implementation.
Find out more, contact our migration consultants now.
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Our expert team is readily available to help with any questions you may have.