how to keep your landline when switching to fttp

Looking at how to keep your landline when switching to fttp / fibre broadband? You’ve come to the right place!

Switching to fibre broadband is an excellent way to enjoy faster, more reliable internet. But if you rely on your landline, either for convenience or as a backup, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to keep your landline when moving to fibre. The answer is yes! Thanks to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), you can retain your landline number even when upgrading to fibre broadband.

With the traditional copper-based landline network set to be phased out in January 2027, now is a great time to make the switch to fibre and set up VoIP. In this guide, we’ll explain how you can keep your landline number when moving to fibre broadband, the benefits of FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) over FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), and why VoIP is the solution for a seamless transition.

Understanding Fibre Broadband: FTTP vs. FTTC

When considering a switch to fibre broadband, it’s important to understand the difference between two main types of fibre technology:

  1. FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet): Often branded as “superfast” by providers like BT, FTTC uses fibre optic cables up to the street cabinet and then relies on traditional copper cables from the cabinet to your home. While faster than ADSL, FTTC’s reliance on copper means that speeds can drop significantly over long distances.
  2. FTTP (Fibre to the Premises): Known as “ultrafast” broadband, FTTP delivers a full fibre connection directly to your home, eliminating copper entirely. This setup provides the highest speeds, best reliability, and future-proof connectivity, making it ideal for homes with high internet demands.

By switching to FTTP, you’re ensuring that your home is equipped with the best possible broadband infrastructure, providing stable, fast, and future-ready internet for years to come.

Why Switch to FTTP for Better Internet?

Switching to FTTP brings many benefits beyond just higher speeds. Here’s why it’s worth considering a full-fibre setup:

  • Faster Speeds: With FTTP, you can access some of the fastest internet speeds available, which is perfect for streaming in HD, online gaming, video calls, and households with multiple users.
  • Reliable Connection: Unlike FTTC, which relies on copper wiring, FTTP is unaffected by distance or interference, providing a more stable and consistent connection.
  • Future-Proof Technology: As more devices become internet-enabled, a full-fibre connection ensures that your home can handle the growing demand for bandwidth.

Switching to FTTP isn’t just about better speeds—it’s a proactive way to ensure your internet remains reliable and capable of handling future technology.

How to Keep Your Landline When Switching to FTTP

One of the biggest concerns people have when moving to fibre broadband is whether they can keep their existing landline number. Since FTTP doesn’t use traditional copper phone lines, you’ll need to move your landline to a digital service known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) to keep it. Here’s how VoIP can help you seamlessly transition to fibre broadband without losing your landline.

What is VoIP?

VoIP is a digital phone service that allows you to make and receive calls over your internet connection rather than through a traditional phone line. This technology offers numerous advantages:

  1. Clear Call Quality: VoIP often provides high-definition voice quality, which can be clearer than traditional landlines.
  2. Flexibility with Devices: You can continue using your existing phone with a VoIP adapter or choose a VoIP-enabled phone. VoIP services also allow you to forward calls to your mobile, giving you the flexibility to take calls anywhere.
  3. Cost-Effective: VoIP can be more affordable, especially with no additional line rental fees.

How to Set Up VoIP to Keep Your Landline Number

Setting up VoIP is straightforward, and many providers offer hassle-free options for porting your current landline number to VoIP. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Choose a VoIP Provider: Look for a reliable VoIP provider that offers clear call quality and seamless integration with your broadband. A UK-based provider like Plexatalk offers VoIP services for just £10 per month, with no cost to port your landline number.
  2. Set Up Your Phone:
    • Use a VoIP Adapter: If you want to keep using your existing phone, you can connect it to a VoIP adapter, which will allow it to make calls over your fibre broadband.
    • Forward Calls to Mobile: If you’re frequently on the go, VoIP allows you to set up call forwarding to your mobile, so calls to your landline reach you wherever you are.
    • Dual Ringing Setup: Many VoIP services also offer dual ringing, so calls ring on both your landline and mobile, giving you the ultimate flexibility.
  3. Enjoy the Benefits of Fibre and VoIP: Once set up, you’ll have a full-fibre connection for superfast internet and a VoIP service that lets you keep your landline number.

Why Choose VoIP with a Provider like Plexatalk?

There are many VoIP providers on the market, but selecting the right one is crucial to a smooth experience. Here’s why Plexatalk is a great choice:

  • UK-Based Service: As a UK-based provider, Plexatalk offers local support for consumers and businesses, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly.
  • Reliable Service: Plexatalk’s VoIP is designed to deliver dependable call quality and stability, backed by excellent customer support.
  • Hassle-Free Setup: With easy porting of your existing landline number and minimal setup requirements, Plexatalk offers a seamless way to move your landline to VoIP.

Plexatalk’s services are ideal for those looking for an affordable, reliable, and UK-based VoIP provider that serves both residential and business users.

Key Benefits of VoIP with Fibre Broadband

Making the switch to fibre broadband with VoIP offers several additional benefits:

  • One Connection for All: With VoIP, your internet and phone services both run through the same fibre connection, reducing the need for multiple service lines and simplifying your setup.
  • Flexible Calling Options: VoIP provides options for call forwarding, multi-device ringing, and remote access, so you can answer calls on your mobile, computer, or landline phone.
  • Emergency Preparedness: While VoIP relies on internet connectivity, some VoIP setups can be combined with mobile backup options, ensuring you’re reachable in emergencies.

What to Know About the 2027 Landline Switch-Off

The national landline switch-off is scheduled for January 2027. By then, the UK’s traditional copper network will be fully retired, and all landline users will need to have switched to VoIP if they want to keep their landline number.

This transition is part of a broader shift toward digital technology that will allow for faster, more reliable, and future-proof communications. By setting up VoIP now, you’re ahead of the game and well-prepared for 2027. VoIP allows you to retain your current landline number and use it seamlessly over your new fibre connection.

Common Questions About Switching to Fibre and VoIP

How can I switch to FTTP and keep my landline?

If you’re wondering how keep your landline and switch to FTTP, at Plexatalk we can help you (or your business if you’re a business owner) switch over to VoIP. It’s a straightforward process, get in touch today for more infromation.

Will my landline phone work with VoIP?

Yes, you can keep using your existing landline phone with a VoIP adapter. The adapter will enable your phone to make and receive calls over your fibre broadband connection.

Can I keep my current phone number when I switch to VoIP?

Yes! Most VoIP providers, including Plexatalk, allow you to port your existing landline number over to VoIP at no extra cost.

What if I switch FTTP supplier?

Because your landline number is no longer attached to your broadband provider, you can go wherever you like without fear of losing your number or the stress of porting.

What happens if there’s a power cut?

Traditional landlines often work during power outages, but VoIP does not. For emergency access, consider a mobile phone backup or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for short-term outages. There is also the option to setup your landline to go to your mobile or VoIP apps which can work over data.

Do I need to upgrade my broadband to use VoIP?

Generally no, as long as you’re getting about 1Mbps that will be enough to sustain one concurrent VoIP call.

Can I forward my landline calls to my mobile?

Yes, VoIP allows you to forward calls to your mobile, ensuring you’re reachable even when away from home.

Making the Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Select Your Fibre Broadband Provider: When choosing an FTTP provider, look for one that offers reliable service and competitive rates.
  2. Contact a VoIP Provider (Like Plexatalk): For £10 a month, Plexatalk offers an easy, cost-effective way to keep your landline number with no porting fees. Simply visit plexatalk.co.uk/contact to get started.
  3. Set Up Your VoIP Connection: With fibre and VoIP in place, you’ll enjoy faster internet and keep your landline number.

Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Your Connection with Fibre and VoIP

Upgrading to fibre broadband and setting up VoIP isn’t just about faster speeds—it’s about preparing for a future where all communications are digital. With the 2027 landline switch-off on the horizon, transitioning to VoIP with a provider like Plexatalk ensures you can switch to fibre broadband and keep your landline without any inconvenience.

VoIP provides the flexibility and reliability of a traditional landline but with the enhanced features and clarity of digital service. Ready to make the switch? Get a quote from Plexatalk today and future-proof your home or business with fibre broadband and VoIP.