CCTV monitoring after the PSTN switch off

Question 1

Will my CCTV monitoring work after the PSTN switch off?

Accepted Answer

Live video streaming and cloud CCTV are unaffected — they run over broadband. The risk is with monitored CCTV systems that send alarm confirmation signals to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) over an analogue phone line. Any PSTN-based signalling path — including RedCare Classic and older DualCom GPRS units with PSTN back-up — will stop working after 31 January 2027 and must be replaced with IP or dual-path (IP + 4G) signalling.

Question 2

Which parts of my CCTV system are affected?

Accepted Answer

The camera network itself is almost always fine — modern IP and HD-over-coax cameras record locally or to the cloud and don't touch the phone line. What breaks is anything that dials out: a PSTN autodialler on the DVR/NVR, an alarm-verified CCTV signalling path to an ARC, or a legacy voice line used for two-way audio challenge from the monitoring station.

Question 3

What equipment will I need to replace?

Accepted Answer

Typically you'll need a modern IP/4G signalling device (for example a CSL DualCom Pro, WebWayOne or EE Signal unit) wired to the DVR/NVR alarm output, a reliable broadband connection (SoGEA, FTTP or leased line) and — for higher grades — a dual-path unit so the ARC can still be reached if broadband fails. Any PSTN-only autodiallers on the recorder should be removed.

Question 4

What migration steps should I follow?

Accepted Answer

(1) Ask your CCTV monitoring provider to list every signalling path, dialler and phone line linked to your system. (2) Confirm which cameras and recorders are already IP-capable. (3) Order a compliant IP/4G communicator and, if needed, upgrade broadband. (4) Schedule the ARC re-registration so the new path is tested end-to-end. (5) Decommission and disconnect the old PSTN line only after the new path is signed off.

Question 5

Do I still need a phone line for CCTV at all?

Accepted Answer

In most modern deployments, no. A business-grade broadband circuit with a 4G back-up SIM inside the signalling device is enough to keep both live viewing and ARC alarm confirmation online. Some very old analogue CCTV setups still use a phone line for two-way audio — those need to move to an IP intercom or SIP audio path.

Question 6

What should I ask my CCTV monitoring provider?

Accepted Answer

Ask: 'Is my current CCTV alarm signalling PSTN-dependent?', 'What grade of signalling does my insurance or licence require?', 'Which dual-path IP/4G device do you recommend?', 'Will my existing DVR/NVR work with the new communicator?', 'How is the system tested after the swap?', and 'Can you complete the upgrade before Q4 2026 to avoid the pre-deadline rush?'

Question 7

Will insurance still be valid if I don't upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Probably not. Most commercial policies require monitored CCTV and alarm signalling to a certified ARC at a specific grade. Once the PSTN path fails, the ARC can't confirm incidents and cover may be reduced or withdrawn. Get written confirmation from your installer that the new IP/4G path meets your policy grade.

Question 8

When should I upgrade my CCTV signalling?

Accepted Answer

Now. Openreach is already withdrawing PSTN products area by area, and CCTV/alarm installers are working through a substantial backlog. Aim to have the new signalling live and tested by mid-2026 so any teething issues are ironed out before the January 2027 deadline.

Question 9

What should I ask my CCTV or monitoring provider before the PSTN switch off?

Accepted Answer

Use this checklist when you contact your CCTV or monitoring provider: 1. Does our CCTV transmit alarms or video over a PSTN/analogue line or dialler? 2. What replacement connectivity do you recommend (broadband, dedicated IP or 4G/5G failover)? 3. What upload bandwidth does our site need for reliable monitoring? 4. Will the recorder, transmitter or cameras need replacing? 5. How is the monitoring path tested and what alerting exists if it fails? 6. Will our remote monitoring centre contract, response or costs change? Also confirm the cost, lead time and the date the work can be completed, well before 31 January 2027.

Will my CCTV monitoring work after the PSTN switch off?

CCTV migration checklist

Ask your CCTV monitoring provider

CCTV & PSTN switch off — FAQs

Contact your CCTV or monitoring provider

Not sure if your CCTV signalling is PSTN-dependent?