Changes to broadband networks and home phone lines FAQs
Everything you need to know about the changes to broadband and phone line services in your area.
Openreach are currently working on a broadband upgrade programme throughout the country. They’re now rolling out the latest broadband technology, so by December 2025, the UK will benefit from a new network fit for the modern world.
This new type of fibre broadband doesn’t need a phone line to set up a connection. As part of the nationwide upgrade, Openreach are currently phasing out the old landline telephone system and this will be completely switched off in 2025.
Changes to the UK’s telephone network system
The first big step in the landline switch off, is that from the 5th September 2023 any provider who uses the Openreach network, including Plusnet, will no longer be able to place orders for new services that run over traditional analogue telephone lines.
Simple, reliable connectivity ready for a digital future
Pretty soon, we’ll all be embracing a digital world and services like landlines will be left behind. That’s why here at Plusnet, we’re getting ahead of technology changes and going fully digital. We’re making things straightforward by providing simple, reliable broadband without a landline so it’s future-proof.
With the increased use of mobile phone devices and internet video calling, traditional phone line usage is in decline.
The older phone line system will be phased out and switched off, as newer, faster technology is now being installed, which doesn’t use the old copper wire landline network.
As the Openreach network updates take place across the UK, our older broadband packages which use a traditional phone line will no longer be available. The good news is, when your area has been upgraded, you could sign up to our Full Fibre or Fibre packages, which are broadband only, so they don’t need a phone line. Getting rid of what you don’t need, so you don’t have to pay for it, and getting you ready for a digital world.
Our broadband only packages
Our great value, straightforward broadband only packages, give you what you need to stay connected.
Full Fibre
Full Fibre is sometimes called FTTP or Fibre to the Premises. It connects straight to your home, so there’s no landline needed. It’s the UK’s most reliable broadband and with a flexible range of speeds up to 900Mb it’s 25 x faster than standard broadband. Find out more about Plusnet Full Fibre
Fibre
Our Fibre broadband is simple. It’s just one straightforward package, which means we’ll give you our fastest connection your home can get at one straightforward price. Making the choice easy for you.
With Fibre you could get speeds up to 50Mb. Great for streaming, gaming, and sharing, all with super savings. Found out more about Fibre
Traditional landlines are being phased out and switched off as part of the network updates.
Using the new technology, our Fibre and Full Fibre packages are broadband only so don’t need a phone line. Even better, you’ll no longer have to pay for line rental or a phone service you don’t use.
When you upgrade to one of our broadband only packages:
- You won’t be able to make or receive landline calls
- Personal alarms and any other services connected to your home phone will no longer work. We’d advise you speak to the manufacturer about these.
If you’re reliant on a home phone line service, don’t worry, please contact us on 0330 1239 123 to chat about other digital phone options which may be available to you.
Openreach decide which regions get upgraded and when. If we’ve recently been in touch, please check the information we’ve sent you, as this will explain all the changes which are taking place in your area and what you need to do next.
As part of the network changes, the great news is you may be able to upgrade to one of our broadband only packages. You won’t have to pay for line rental or a phone service you don’t use.
Full Fibre is our latest and best connection package with speeds up to 900Mb. It’s so new it’s not available everywhere just yet. If you can’t get it we’ll do the next best thing and offer you the connection with our fastest speed you can get at your address. When Full Fibre hits your street we’ll let you know, and you can upgrade at any time.
It’s really easy to upgrade your package, just login to My Account to see your best deals.
Or give us a call on 0330 1239 123 and we’ll get you sorted.
Find out more about our Fibre and Full Fibre broadband only packages.
Upgrading to a Plusnet broadband only package means you won’t have a home phone line so won’t be able to make or receive landline calls.
If you’re reliant on a home phone service, please contact us on 0330 1239 123 to chat about other digital phone options which may be available to you.
