Card machines after the PSTN switch off

Question 1

Will my card machine work after the PSTN switch off?

Accepted Answer

Only if it connects via ethernet, Wi-Fi or 4G. Any terminal that dials out over an analogue phone line to authorise transactions will stop working when the copper network is retired. If you're not sure, check the back of the terminal — a phone-style RJ11 socket connected to a wall phone point is the tell-tale sign.

Question 2

Which card terminals are most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Older countertop terminals — including some Ingenico iCT and Verifone Vx units set up as 'PSTN dial-up' — and pay-at-desk devices installed alongside a landline. Portable Bluetooth base stations that plug into a phone socket for their base connection are also affected.

Question 3

Which terminals are unaffected?

Accepted Answer

Modern IP terminals (ethernet or Wi-Fi), 4G/GPRS mobile terminals (SumUp, Zettle, Square, Stripe Terminal, most Ingenico Move/5000 and Verifone V240m units), and integrated EPOS-connected terminals that use the shop's data network.

Question 4

How do I migrate my card machine without losing service?

Accepted Answer

1) Identify the terminal model and how it connects today. 2) Contact your acquirer or payment provider (Worldpay, Barclaycard, Elavon, Global Payments, Dojo, takepayments, etc.) and request an IP or 4G replacement. 3) Ask them to overlap the old and new terminal for a few days so trading is not interrupted. 4) Check your broadband can prioritise payment traffic — a wired connection is best.

Question 5

Do I need new broadband to keep taking card payments?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Any reliable business broadband (SoGEA, FTTP or leased line) will support IP card terminals. If you rely on a single ADSL line that also carries your voice, plan the migration together — moving voice to VoIP and the terminal to IP/4G at the same visit is common.

Question 6

What if my terminal is integrated with my EPOS or PMS?

Accepted Answer

Integrated setups (retail EPOS, hospitality PMS, hotel property management) usually need a like-for-like IP model from the same vendor to preserve the integration. Speak to both the EPOS supplier and the payment provider before ordering to confirm compatibility and any middleware updates.

Question 7

Will migrating cost extra?

Accepted Answer

Most acquirers replace PSTN terminals at no or low cost as part of their own switch-off programme, though monthly rental for IP/4G models can differ. It's worth comparing quotes and negotiating — the deadline gives you leverage.

Question 8

What happens if I do nothing?

Accepted Answer

The terminal will fail to authorise transactions after your line is migrated or in January 2027 at the latest. That means declined card payments at the till, lost revenue, and manual key-entry work-arounds. Plan the swap well before your busiest trading period.

Card machine after PSTN switch off

Migrate without losing service — 5 steps

Card machines & PSTN — FAQs

Contact your card payment provider

Need to swap card terminals without downtime?