As a managed service provider, we work with all types of small and medium sized businesses on many different aspects of their business. One is their communication, which in most cases, includes their phone system. In recent months, with the escalation of the copper infrastructure decommissioning, which was the backbone of telecom for nearly a century, some companies have learned that their old key system no longer works. And for other companies, their point of sale system, fax machine, security, and elevator emergency call button all no longer work. Before your business experiences an issue, you need to know what in your office still relies on copper or a plain old telephone system (POTS) line to function.
Why the Change? (And When?)
There are many reasons telecom companies are phasing out the traditional copper wires. One is that the age makes it more unreliable. And, the expense to repair it is simply not worth it for anyone, especially considering the decline in use. Because of this, companies still using POTS lines have seen increases in their monthly bill. Another reason is that copper lines aren’t scalable. Systems using POTS lines don’t have the capability of including features that VoIP offers. Although there is not firm date, AT&T announced that in the three-year span between 2022 – 2025, they will cut their copper footprint by 50%. Verizon customers who are served by Fios should expect that they will retire the copper lines at an increasing pace in the next year.
How Do You Know What Uses POTS Lines?
The easiest way to know if your phone system still uses POTS lines is to look at your bill. If you have charges for a certain number of lines, you are probably still on copper. If that doesn’t help you, think about your most recent internet outage. Did your phones continue working? If so, chances are good that you’re still using copper. As we mentioned your phone system isn’t the only thing that may rely on copper phone lines. Look at your fax machine. Is it plugged in with an Ethernet cable or old style phone cord? Talk to your point of sale company about the version and system you’re using. You may need an update there as well. Elevators are hard for businesses to know about, however, if you lease, this should be an issue your landlord takes care of. Don’t be afraid to ask them about it as you could be help partially liable if someone is stuck in the elevator and can’t contact emergency services due to lack of service.
Turn to Toucan Technology Group for Help with Your Phone System & More
Toucan Technology Group offers small business solutions including replacing old telecom systems with VoIP systems. We also have solutions for elevators and other equipment that may use copper that needs updating. Call us today to learn more at (317) 376-4874 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation.
