VoIP vs Digital Phone Systems cutting through the jargon.
Is a 'digital phone system' different from VoIP? Mostly, no. Here's what the terms really mean, why it matters for the 2027 switch-off, and what your business actually needs.
Are VoIP and 'digital phone systems' the same?
Mostly, yes. VoIP (Voice over IP) means calls travel over the internet instead of the old analogue/ISDN lines. 'Digital phone system' is a broader marketing term that almost always means the same thing: an all-IP, internet-based system. See our digital phone systems page.
The reason the distinction comes up at all is the 2027 PSTN switch-off — the old network is being retired, so every business is moving to a 'digital'/VoIP system. Whatever it's called, you need an internet-based phone system before then. Check your 2027 readiness.
Don't get hung up on the label.
What matters isn't whether someone calls it VoIP or digital — it's getting reliable, internet-based phones with the features and support you need, before the switch-off. We migrate you with no downtime, keep your numbers, and can add failover so a line fault never takes you offline.
From £5/user/month, installed and supported by a UK team. Get a quote →
The services behind the comparison.
Everything we'd put in front of you instead — designed, installed and supported by a UK team.
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Frequently asked questions
Is VoIP the same as a digital phone system?
Effectively yes. VoIP means calls over the internet; 'digital phone system' is a broader term that almost always means the same all-IP, internet-based technology.
Why does the difference matter?
Mainly because of the 2027 PSTN switch-off — the old analogue/ISDN network is being retired, so every business needs an internet-based (VoIP/digital) system before then.
Do I need to switch before 2027?
Yes — the old network is being switched off by 2027. We migrate you to a modern system with no downtime, keeping your numbers.
What does it cost?
From around £5/user/month for the basic package, with no mid-contract price rises.