Key takeaways
Since December 2023, you switch your landline provider by contacting your new provider only -- One Touch Switch covers both broadband and landline bundles.
If you have a standalone landline (no broadband), the switching process follows the same One Touch Switch approach for most providers.
Tell your new provider at sign-up if you want to keep your landline number -- they arrange the number transfer as part of the switch.
As BT retires its PSTN network by January 2027, all landline switches involve moving to a VoIP (digital voice) service over a broadband connection.
Telecare devices, burglar alarms and fax machines connected to your landline may need reconfiguring when you move to a VoIP service -- check with your device supplier.
Reviewed: June 2026Key facts
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How landline switching works under One Touch Switch
Since 12 December 2023, switching landline provider works the same way as switching broadband -- through Ofcom's One Touch Switch process. You contact your new provider, tell them you want to switch, give them your address and postcode, and they manage everything else including notifying your current provider and arranging the cutover date.
If your landline is bundled with broadband (which it is for most customers), the landline and broadband switch happen together as a single One Touch Switch. If you have a standalone landline without broadband, most providers still support the same process -- confirm with your new provider when signing up.
Keeping your landline number
Tell your new provider at the point of signing up that you want to keep your existing number. They arrange the number transfer (number porting) as part of the switch. This typically adds two to five days to the switch timescale but your number transfers automatically -- you do not need to take any additional steps.
The PSTN switch-off and what it means for landline switching
BT is retiring its PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) by January 2027. Other providers using BT's network are following the same timescale. This means all landline services -- including any you switch to today -- are in the process of moving from traditional copper-line telephone technology to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), which delivers calls over a broadband connection.
In practice this means: your new landline service will require a broadband connection. If you currently have a standalone landline with no broadband, you will eventually need broadband to maintain a landline service. The voice quality is typically the same or better on VoIP, and your phone number is preserved through the transition.
If you use a telecare device (lifeline alarm, personal alarm), burglar alarm, fax machine or card payment terminal connected to your landline, these may not work with a VoIP landline without reconfiguration. Tell your new provider about these devices when switching and check with the device supplier about VoIP compatibility.
Vulnerable customers and the PSTN transition
Ofcom has specific rules requiring providers to protect vulnerable customers during the PSTN to VoIP transition. If you or someone in your household is dependent on the landline for medical equipment, emergency calls during power cuts, or telecare, your provider must assess your needs and provide appropriate support before migrating you. This may include battery backup units to keep the phone working during power outages.
What to check before switching landline
Confirm the new provider supports your area. Check the contract length and whether VoIP equipment (a new router, adapter or handset) is included at no extra cost. Confirm the new provider will port your number. If you have any devices connected to your landline, confirm VoIP compatibility before switching.
Related guides
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Kael Tripton Ltd is not regulated by the FCA and does not provide financial advice. Telecoms information is sourced from Ofcom, the UK communications regulator. Always verify current information at ofcom.org.uk.
Frequently asked questions
How do I switch my landline phone provider?
Contact your new provider and request the switch -- under Ofcom's One Touch Switch (December 2023), they manage the process including notifying your current provider. Tell them at sign-up if you want to keep your existing number. The switch typically completes within 10 to 28 days.
Can I keep my landline number when I switch?
Yes. Tell your new provider you want to keep your number at the point of signing up. They arrange number porting as part of the switch. This adds two to five days to the switch timescale but your number transfers automatically.
Do I need broadband to have a landline?
Increasingly yes. As BT retires the PSTN by January 2027, all new landline services use VoIP technology which requires a broadband connection. If you currently have a standalone landline without broadband, you will eventually need a broadband connection to maintain a landline service.
Will my telecare alarm work after switching landline?
Not necessarily. Telecare devices (lifeline alarms, personal alarms) designed for PSTN landlines may not work with VoIP without reconfiguration or replacement. Tell your new provider about any such devices when switching and contact the device supplier to confirm VoIP compatibility before making the switch.
Is switching landline free?
Requesting the switch is free. However, if you are within a minimum contract term, your current provider may charge an early exit fee. Check your contract. If your provider has raised prices above the rate stated in your contract, you may be able to leave without a fee under Ofcom's rules.
How long does a landline switch take?
Most landline switches complete within 10 to 28 calendar days from the date you request the switch with your new provider. If number porting is included, allow two to five extra days.
What is One Touch Switch for landlines?
One Touch Switch is Ofcom's switching process in force since December 2023. For landlines (and broadband), you contact only your new provider -- they notify your current provider and manage the transfer. You do not need to call your current provider to cancel.
Can I have a landline without broadband in 2026?
Some providers still offer standalone landline services using legacy infrastructure, but this is becoming less common as the PSTN switch-off approaches (January 2027 for BT). After the PSTN is retired, all landline calls will run over broadband (VoIP). If you do not have broadband, you will need to get a broadband connection to maintain a landline after the switch-off.
