What is the ISDN? The ISDN or Integrated Services Digital Network is a circuit-switched telephone network system that transmits data and voice over a digital line. Put simply, it’s a set of communication standards used to transmit data, voice, and signaling.
Why is it switching off? As with all technological advancements, progress requires change. The infrastructure that underpins ISDN has been significantly upgraded since it was first launched in the 1980s and big market players like BT and Deutsche Telekom have invested heavily in VoIP. By moving all of their services to IP, providers will be able to focus their resources on a technology that will meet the demands of businesses in the future.
What are the alternatives? The future of communications lies in VoIP and SIP. Using just an active internet connection, VoIP enables voice and video calls on a global scale. This significantly reduces call costs for customers and also makes it far easier for resellers to administer clients’ systems as there are no physical lines to be installed.
Is this a good thing for resellers? Absolutely! The ISDN switch off will benefit UCaaS resellers: Expect to see an increased interest in VoIP as more businesses become aware of the switch off. It’s a big opportunity to migrate customers with outdated on-premise systems to hosted systems that generate recurring revenue and additional revenue streams for your business On the admin side, VoIP is easier to scale and manage.
How long do I have? ISDN is no longer being sold in most regions. The final switch off will happen in most regions before 2025.
What should I be doing? Start talking to your customers early and avoid the last-minute panic for them and you. Luckily 3CX makes it easy for you to move your existing to customers from ISDN to VoIP and you can use our supported kit to guarantee a great transition. When talking to your customers discuss the following benefits: – Reduces call costs – Improves Business Continuity – Increased functionality compared to traditional PBXs – Easy Scale Up – Removes Geographical Barriers- workers on the move call for free.
