How to Prepare Your Landline for BT’s Analogue Phone Switch-Off

First Action – Verify Your Broadband Speed

1. Run a speed test (e.g., https://www.speedtest.net). You need at least 1 Mbps upload for reliable Digital Voice quality. If your upload is lower, contact BT to upgrade your broadband plan before the switch‑off.

Prerequisites

• An active BT broadband account (the service that will carry your voice after the switch‑off).

• Access to the BT Digital Voice kit or a compatible VoIP adapter.

• Ability to receive BT communications (email, post, or phone call) about the migration.

• If you rely on the landline for emergency or telecare devices, note that they will need digital‑compatible replacements.

Step‑by‑Step Preparation

1. Confirm Your Area Is Scheduled for Migration

1. Visit the Openreach postcode checker (openreach.com) or call BT customer service on 0800 800 150.

2. Note the expected migration window for your exchange.

3. Record the date in your calendar – you’ll need to complete the setup before the final switch‑off on 31 January 2027.

2. Order the Required Hardware

1. Log into your BT account online or call BT sales on 0800 800 150.

2. Request a Digital Voice kit (includes the Digital Voice hub and power adapter).

3. If you prefer a third‑party VoIP adapter, ensure it supports SIP and HD voice codecs (e.g., Opus).

4. Keep the order confirmation and delivery tracking number.

3. Prepare Your Existing Handset(s)

1. Check the handset model against BT’s compatibility list (shown on the Digital Voice kit box or the BT website).

2. Most modern cordless and wired phones work, but very old analog phones may need a Digital Voice‑compatible handset or a USB‑to‑RJ11 adapter.

3. If a handset is incompatible, consider:

   • Purchasing a BT‑approved handset, or

   • Using a USB‑powered cordless base that connects to the hub.

4. Connect the Digital Voice Hub

1. Power off your router and any existing phone sockets.

2. Plug the Digital Voice hub into a wall socket that is on the same circuit as your router (to minimise cable length).

3. Connect the hub to your router using an Ethernet cable (LAN port → LAN port).

4. Connect your handset to the hub’s phone port (RJ11).

5. Plug the hub’s power adapter into a mains outlet and turn it on.

5. Configure the Hub (if required)

1. Open a web browser on a device connected to the same router.

2. Navigate to the hub’s default IP address (usually 192.168.1.1).

3. Follow the on‑screen wizard to register the device with BT’s Digital Voice service.

4. If the wizard asks for a BT account number or service ID, locate these on your latest BT bill or in the welcome email.

6. Test Your Phone

1. Pick up the handset and dial 12345 (BT’s test number).

2. You should hear a short confirmation tone and a spoken message confirming the line is active.

3. Place a call to a friend or a mobile phone to verify two‑way audio.

4. If you experience echo, static, or no sound, proceed to the troubleshooting section.

7. Add Power Backup (Critical for Emergencies)

1. Purchase a small UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) rated for at least 10 VA (enough for router + Digital Voice hub).

2. Plug the router and hub into the UPS outlets, then connect the UPS to mains power.

3. Test the UPS by unplugging mains – the router and hub should stay on for at least 5 minutes.

4. This ensures your landline works during power cuts, replicating the old copper line’s resilience.

8. Update Connected Devices & Services

1. Telecare / medical alarms – Contact the alarm provider and ask for a digital‑compatible version or a VoIP‑enabled gateway.

2. Burglar alarms, CCTV, door entry systems – Verify with the manufacturer that the device can operate over VoIP; if not, arrange an upgrade.

3. Emergency contacts – Inform doctors, schools, and any service that has your landline number of the upcoming change, confirming the number will stay the same.

9. Verify Completion Before the Cut‑Off

1. One week before your scheduled migration date, call BT support (0800 800 150) and ask them to confirm your Digital Voice service is active.

2. Perform another test call to ensure no degradation after any recent firmware updates.

3. Keep the Digital Voice kit box and documentation for at least six months in case you need to return hardware.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If none of the above resolves the issue, contact BT technical support at 0800 023 2698 (as listed in BT Business guidance) and reference your Digital Voice kit serial number.

How to Verify the Migration Is Complete

1. After the official switch‑off date (31 January 2027), attempt to place a call using only the Digital Voice hub – no wall socket should be involved.

2. Check that the call connects without any “line busy” or “no service” messages.

3. Confirm with BT support that your account now shows “Digital Voice – Active” in the online portal.

Quick Reference Checklist

• [ ] Broadband upload ≥ 1 Mbps

• [ ] Area migration date confirmed

• [ ] Digital Voice kit ordered & received

• [ ] Handset compatibility checked

• [ ] Hub connected to router & powered

• [ ] Test call successful

• [ ] UPS installed and tested

• [ ] All alarm/telecare devices upgraded

• [ ] Emergency contacts notified

• [ ] Final BT confirmation obtained

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For more detailed information on BT’s Digital Voice service, see the official BT page: Digital Switchover – About BT.
Business customers can read the full PSTN/ISDN switch‑off guidance here: The PSTN, ISDN and ADSL switch off – what it means for you.