Can I Use a Landline with Starlink? Understanding VoIP Phones and The Big Switch Off
The UK is on the brink of a major digital transformation — The Big Switch Off. By 2025, BT will permanently shut down all traditional landline phone services, phasing out the copper-based PSTN and ISDN networks in favour of internet-based VoIP phone systems. If you’re wondering how this affects your home or business, especially if you live in a rural area with limited broadband options, this guide is for you.
At Install Pros®, we specialise in supplying and installing VoIP phones that work seamlessly over Starlink satellite internet — a game-changing solution for locations where fibre broadband isn’t available.
1. What Is The Big Switch Off?
BT’s Big Switch Off is the nationwide retirement of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) by December 2025. These legacy copper phone lines have powered UK landline calls for decades — but they’re being replaced by VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), which transmits phone calls using the internet.
As of September 2023, BT no longer sells PSTN or ISDN connections. If you haven’t yet upgraded, time is running out.
2. What Are VoIP Phones and How Do They Work?
VoIP phones, also called internet phones, allow you to make voice calls using an internet connection rather than traditional copper phone lines. Calls are routed digitally, offering greater flexibility, clearer audio, and a host of modern features such as:
Call forwarding
Voicemail-to-email
Auto attendants
Conference calling
Mobile integration
Whether you’re running a small business or need a home phone solution post-switch-off, VoIP is the future — and it’s available now.
3. Can VoIP Phones Work with Starlink?
Yes — VoIP phones are compatible with Starlink, and many users across the UK are already making the switch. Starlink’s low-orbit satellite internet provides high-speed, low-latency broadband to areas previously underserved by fibre.
What You Need to Know:
Speed: Starlink typically offers download speeds of 50–250 Mbps and upload speeds of 10–40 Mbps — more than enough for VoIP calls (which require only ~0.384 Mbps upload).
Latency: Starlink’s average latency ranges from 20–50 ms, which is acceptable for most VoIP calls. While it’s higher than fibre, it’s significantly lower than older satellite systems.
Jitter & Reliability: Starlink occasionally experiences jitter (latency variation) or short outages, so we recommend a battery backup (UPS) for business-critical setups.
At Install Pros®, we’ve tested and deployed VoIP systems over Starlink for homes and rural businesses, ensuring smooth, reliable communication even in challenging areas.
4. Who Benefits Most from Switching to VoIP with Starlink?
The combination of VoIP + Starlink is ideal for:
Rural Homes:
Where copper broadband is slow or unreliable, the switch to VoIP could mean no more dropped calls, and you can keep your existing number with the right provider.
Small Businesses:
Running a remote team, booking appointments, or handling customer service? VoIP with Starlink gives you flexibility, scalability, and professional call features — even from the countryside.
Farms & Outbuildings:
No more dodgy landline crackles. With a VoIP system installed by Install Pros® and powered by Starlink, you can stay connected anywhere on your property.
5. Why Upgrade Now? What Happens if You Don’t?
When the PSTN network shuts down in 2025, any traditional landline devices will stop working — this includes phones, fax machines, older alarms, and even some payment terminals.
If you rely on copper and live in a rural area, your call quality may already be suffering. Post-2025, it will get worse — or stop entirely.
Upgrading your internet connection is not optional — it’s essential. For VoIP to work well, your internet must be stable, fast, and preferably full-fibre or satellite-based like Starlink. Install Pros® can assess your setup and provide both the connectivity and VoIP solution you need to future-proof your communications.
6. Why Choose Install Pros® for VoIP + Starlink?
Starlink Approved: We supply and install Starlink systems for both residential and commercial properties across the UK.
VoIP Experts: We configure and install VoIP phone systems tailored to your needs — from single handsets to full business setups.
Rural Ready: No fibre? No problem. We specialise in solutions for rural and remote locations.
All-in-One Service: Broadband upgrade, VoIP phone supply, installation, training, and aftercare — we handle it all.
7. Ready for the Switch?
Whether you’re a homeowner preparing for The Big Switch Off or a business needing reliable internet phones, VoIP over Starlink is your solution — and Install Pros® is your trusted partner.
