As the UK’s landline upgrades, a little preparation will keep your business connected – especially during power cuts.
Unlike the traditional (analogue) landlines, digital landlines won’t function without power.
Most businesses have multiple devices connected to their landline that are not used to make and receive calls (older payment systems, gating and security systems, telemetry, and more). It’s important to consider how to keep your landline, internet, and critical services running during a power cut.
Mobile phones will continue to operate during power cuts.
If mobile phones are not a viable option (especially in areas of limited connectivity), you can install a backup power system such as a battery unit or generator to keep the landline and connected devices powered for a short time.
Solar panels with battery storage can provide a sustainable and independent power source during daylight hours.
For more complex set-ups (maybe multiple locations and providers, numerous phone sockets with separate handsets, or third party users), your communication providers may have tailored options.
Routers, hubs, and modems will need power backup to keep your business online during a power cut. Alternative power sources such as a UPS, battery, or generator can temporarily power your networking equipment.
To access the internet, you may use mobile hotspots or tethers (e.g. cellular data).
Connected devices (such as CCTV cameras, telemetry sensors, controllers, automation systems, and more) will need backup battery and cellular data to keep functioning as usual.
Communications providers won’t know what devices have been connected to their network. Your teams must take stock of your devices and identify the devices that require alternative power sources and connectivity to remain functional during power cuts.
Businesses that provide critical services (such as telecare, intruder alerts, panic buttons, fire alarms, industrial control systems, or more) must take extra precautions to ensure that their systems continue to work after the switchover.
Your teams will need to work closely with equipment and communications providers to become digital-ready and make provisions for power and network resilience.
Businesses that serve the elderly and vulnerable customers (who rely on their landline or can’t use a mobile) can proactively guide them, and their carers, on the smooth transfer of their landline services.
It’s imperative to make them aware of battery backups and alternative power sources, as well as any changes in critical system functionality.
