For almost every UK business, VoIP is now the better choice than a traditional landline, and with the analogue switch-off, landlines are not a long-term option anyway. Here is how they compare.
| Traditional landline | VoIP | |
|---|---|---|
| Future | Being switched off by January 2027 | The new standard |
| Where you can answer | Only on the phone plugged into the line | Desk phone, laptop or mobile, anywhere |
| Adding a line or user | Engineer visit, line rental | Minutes, online |
| Features | Basic, or extra hardware | Menus, queues, recording and reporting included |
| Cost | Line rental per line, plus hardware | Monthly per-user fee, no line rental |
| Power cut | Basic phones may still work | Calls divert to mobiles automatically |
Cloud phone system vs on-site PBX
Many offices still have a phone system box in a cupboard. It works, but it ties calls to the building, needs maintenance, and usually depends on ISDN or analogue lines that are being withdrawn. A cloud phone system does the same job without the box, and updates happen automatically.
Is VoIP reliable?
A business VoIP platform runs in professional data centres with backups. The weak point is usually the internet connection at your site. Good providers let calls divert automatically to mobiles or another office if your connection drops, so customers still get through.
When a landline still makes sense
Very few situations remain. Some alarm systems and lift phones still need specialist digital replacements, so check those with your supplier. For everyday business calls, VoIP wins.
Read how to switch to VoIP, or book a demo.