The WLR (Wholesale Line Rental) switch-off marks the end of copper-based telephone and broadband services across the UK.
Openreach is retiring its legacy copper network and transitioning to full-fibre and IP-based solutions. For decades, WLR enabled providers to offer traditional landlines and broadband services via copper infrastructure. With digital-first solutions like VoIP and fibre now mainstream, the clock is ticking on this older technology.
Key Facts About the WLR Switch-Off That Businesses Might Miss
1. It Impacts More Than Just Landlines
The switch-off doesn’t only affect desk phones. Services like alarm systems, card payment machines, door-entry systems, and lift emergency lines often rely on copper lines. If left unchecked, these could stop working once WLR is withdrawn.
2. Deadlines Are Already in Motion
Although the nationwide deadline is December 2027, many businesses have already been affected by the WLR stop-sell that began in September 2023. In these areas, you can no longer order new copper-based services — meaning if you delay, your options will narrow.
3. Broadband Will Change Too
Broadband delivered over copper, such as ADSL and FTTC, will no longer be available. Businesses relying on these services must migrate to full fibre (FTTP), leased lines, or mobile broadband alternatives.
4. A Risk to Compliance and Continuity
Sectors like healthcare, finance, and public services often run compliance-critical systems on WLR. Failing to migrate in time could cause breaches in regulations, service downtime, and even patient or customer safety risks.
5. A Chance to Modernise
While the transition may feel disruptive, the switch-off provides a real opportunity. Solutions like VoIP telephony and cloud communications offer greater flexibility, scalability, and cost savings — turning a mandatory change into a competitive advantage.
How to Prepare Your Business for the WLR Withdrawal
Audit every connection: Identify systems tied to copper lines (phones, alarms, payment terminals, fax machines, etc.).
Explore digital alternatives: Move to VoIP, fibre broadband, or hybrid solutions before the rush.
Plan early: Migration projects take time — avoid last-minute disruption.
Partner with Immervox, leading telecoms experts: We will ensure you have a seamless transition away from copper services, as well as covering not only your telecoms, but also fully managed IT Support.
The WLR switch-off is not just a network upgrade — it’s a transformation of UK telecoms. Businesses that act now will avoid service interruptions and unlock the benefits of modern digital communications. Preparing today will equip your business with confidence, resilience, and future-ready technology.
