As copper lines are being phased out, businesses need a cost-effective solution to replace them. This challenge is compounded by many large telephone providers already switching to cellular and VoIP networks. This means that organizations are faced with the daunting task of migrating all their analog devices to a new network. This includes fax machines, alarm systems, elevators, and point-of-sale (POS) systems. In addition, these devices require specialized communications protocols and may need backup power.
Redundancy
The FCC has clarified that large landline providers are no longer required to provide copper analog POTS lines. That means if you have systems dependent on POTS, like fax machines, POS systems, ATMs, and elevator emergency phones, they will no longer work appropriately once your POTS lines go down. That could lead to a loss of productivity, revenue, and customer satisfaction for your business. Unlike traditional POTS lines, digital alternatives that use VoIP or cellular data lines can be built redundantly, making it easy for your team to keep critical devices up and running. This is especially important for life safety systems, such as fire alarms and elevator emergency phone lines, requiring a dedicated cellular network. A POTS replacement solution that uses a managed facilities voice network (MFVN) provider can offer an NFPA 72-compliant option, ensuring that your fire and life safety systems are safe and secure. Many of these solutions include 4G LTE backup, meaning you can continue operating if your primary internet connection fails. With active monitoring, these digital systems can detect and alert your team to real-time issues. This will help reduce maintenance costs and prevent expensive downtime for your business. This will allow you to keep your customers, employees, and assets safe while saving money on monthly bill payments.
Flexibility
Getting rid of copper analog POTS lines can be expensive. Those lines have been in service since 1876, and the infrastructure has become dated and prone to failure. As a result, many carriers have stopped supporting copper lines, and maintenance has become difficult. If you still use legacy devices that require traditional landlines, you’ll have to replace them with digital options like VoIP and cellular data lines. Choosing the right solution will help you save money on your monthly phone bill and future-proof your business. However, it would be best to consider how essential some of your equipment is for daily operations. For example, your business might have an ATM or vending machine that relies on POTS lines to operate. Providing these devices with a reliable connection ensures that your customers can access cash and minimizes the risk of theft or fraud. Suppose your organization has life safety devices that require traditional landlines, such as elevator emergency phones or fire alarms. In that case, choosing a digital POTS replacement that offers redundancy and active monitoring is essential. This way, your devices will continue functioning if a copper line fails, and you’ll be notified of any issues in real time. This will prevent downtime and loss of revenue for your business. This is especially important when you’re relying on those systems to protect the lives of your employees and customers.
Compliance
The move away from copper POTS lines is more than just an inconvenience for business owners. Critical equipment like fax machines, elevator emergency phones, and security systems will only succeed with a reliable line. This can lead to lost revenue, frustrated customers, and a workflow disruption for employees. Fortunately, the right POTS replacement solution can help businesses save on costs and improve reliability. Unlike traditional POTS lines, digital alternatives are more cost-efficient, require less maintenance, and deliver better service.
Moreover, they offer redundancy and active monitoring. Choosing the best POTS replacement solution requires a comprehensive assessment of all locations and devices. The goal is to find a provider offering one bill for hardware, data, and phone services at a monthly rate.
Cost
Compared to analog POTS lines, these newer services are more affordable and reliable than analog ones. They also offer a variety of features that are essential for business operations. For example, they can connect fax machines and provide a secure connection for medical and legal records. They can also connect ATMs and minimize the risk of theft or fraud. Additionally, these services can connect life safety systems such as fire alarms and emergency call boxes. The most critical aspect of choosing the right POTS replacement solution is to find a provider that offers competitive pricing and a complete service package.
