The analogue phone line that's served your business for decades is being switched off - so the obvious question is: what do you replace it with? There isn't one single answer, so this guide lays out the realistic options and when each one fits.
Why you need to replace it at all
Quick recap: the analogue network (the PSTN) is being switched off by 31 January 2027, and you can no longer order new analogue lines. Legacy line rental is also rising sharply through 2026. So doing nothing isn't an option - the lines simply stop working.
The good news: replacing them is usually an upgrade, not just a swap.
Option 1: A like-for-like digital line (Digital Voice)
If you have a simple setup - one or two lines and a basic handset - the closest replacement is a Digital Voice line. Your phone plugs into a router instead of the wall socket, but it behaves like the line you're used to.
- Best for: very small businesses, single lines, back-office or lift/alarm lines that need a basic voice path.
- Watch out for: it needs a working internet connection and power, unlike old copper.
Option 2: Broadband-only connectivity + internet voice
In many cases the cleanest move is to drop the phone line entirely and keep just the broadband - using SoGEA (single-line broadband) or full fibre - then run your calls over the internet.
- Best for: businesses that want one clean connectivity bill and modern voice features.
- Watch out for: make sure your connection has the headroom for voice - see internet speed for VoIP.
Option 3: A full hosted phone system
If you have multiple users, departments or a customer-facing phone setup, replacing analogue lines with a hosted telephony system is usually the strongest move. You get DDI numbers, call routing, voicemail-to-email, auto-attendant and analytics as standard.
- Best for: teams, contact-heavy businesses, anyone replacing an old PBX or ISDN.
- Watch out for: it's a system, not just a line - worth a short planning conversation.
Comparing the options
| Digital Voice line | Broadband-only + internet voice | Hosted phone system | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | 1-2 simple lines | Small business, one bill | Teams & call handling |
| Keeps your number | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Call features | Basic | Good | Extensive |
| Needs internet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scales easily | Limited | Yes | Yes |
Don't forget the non-phone devices
Analogue lines often quietly power more than handsets. Card terminals, alarms, lift lines, door entry and fax machines may all need a plan - we cover this in devices that rely on phone lines. Some can move to digital equivalents; others need a dedicated solution.
How to choose
Work through it in this order:
- Count your lines and users - and what each line actually does.
- Check your connectivity - is your broadband up to the job, or do you need to upgrade?
- Match to an option - simple line, broadband-only, or full system.
- Plan the cutover - keep numbers, test, then switch. Our switch-off checklist helps.
The bottom line
There's no one-size-fits-all replacement for the analogue line, but there's a clear best fit for every business - from a simple digital line to a full hosted system. The key is to choose deliberately rather than be forced into a rushed swap at the deadline. Want a recommendation for your setup? Explore our Cloud Telephony service or request a callback.
Frequently asked questions
What replaces an analogue phone line?
Depending on your needs, either a like-for-like digital voice line that plugs into a router, a broadband-only connection (such as SoGEA or full fibre) with internet-based voice, or a full hosted phone system.
Do I lose my number when I replace an analogue line?
No. Your existing geographic number can be ported to the new service, so customers keep dialling the same number.
What's the simplest analogue line replacement?
For a single basic line, a Digital Voice line is the closest like-for-like - the handset plugs into your router and works much as before, though it needs internet and mains power.
What about alarms, lifts and card machines on analogue lines?
These need their own migration plan. Some have digital equivalents, while others (like lift emergency lines) may need a dedicated solution. Audit every device connected to a phone line before you switch.
