Traditional POTS lines and other copper services are rapidly being phased out in the enterprise sector. To understand the implications of the POTS sunset, we've compiled considerations and cost-effective options for replacing these infrastructure components.
POTS used to be the primary option for telecom services, including life safety services, but as digital alternatives emerged, many businesses upgraded their voice and data traffic. However, POTS continued to be favored for its resilience during power outages and other disruptions. As the POTS sunset approached, enterprises faced challenges in finding similarly reliable replacements.
Organizations face challenges including a lack of internal expertise as some telecom professionals lack exposure to connectivity requirements for life safety and telemetry systems due to the current focus on digital technologies like VoIP. As a result, some are hesitant to switch from POTS lines for fear of disrupting critical functions. Additionally, some organizations struggle to identify downstream or upstream impacts on systems like PBXs and other telecom services, making it difficult to search for a replacement.
Increasing prices of remaining copper services are prompting businesses to transition away from POTS lines, as carriers have raised monthly costs due to deregulation, retiring copper technicians, and rising repair material expenses. The overall cost of maintaining this aging infrastructure is increasing.
Identifying a company's copper inventory can be challenging, but it's crucial to do so before any migration. This includes identifying POTS and other copper-based lines, some of which may route through a PBX, connect directly to an alarm panel, or feed a connection point for faxes or equipment. Detailed invoice data can help reveal other lines that may be candidates for migration, such as primary rate interface services and legacy trunks. Proactive inventory review can help companies avoid charges for abandoned lines and fees for late disconnects during the migration.
Migrating away from POTS requires careful orchestration, even with a well-researched list of copper services. Disrupting life safety services like fire alarms, security systems, and elevator emergency phones could put people at risk and lead to fines or regulatory action. NextGen 911, the transition to digital technologies from analog 911 infrastructure, is already underway, and laws like Kari's Law and RAY BAUM's Act impose additional requirements on businesses to provide easy access to advanced 911 services.
Modern replacement options for copper lines are reliable and cost-effective, providing businesses with better control over telecom spending. Delaying migration to digital infrastructure puts businesses at risk of critical problems as POTS services degrade over time.
Carriers in some areas are no longer supporting copper products and instead prioritize newer technologies altogether. Contract pricing is unattractive, and carriers are pushing customers to decommission POTS lines through hefty price increases. Availability of materials and know-how to maintain older infrastructure is dwindling, making repairs longer and costlier.
Businesses can choose from various replacement solutions such as fixed mobility offerings, VoIP services, etc., with varying affordability depending on their needs. However, without technical expertise, it can be challenging to conduct a thorough inventory, evaluate the resilience of the options, and determine the short- and long-term cost impacts of modernization.
A TEM provider can assist with migration strategy, from retrofitting PBX to evaluating LTE and other wireless solutions. TEM experts also help assess carrier offerings and increase reliability. With the right expertise, businesses can achieve cost efficiency and scalability.