More and more people across the UK are asking the same question: “Do I really still need a landline?” With rising costs, the push for flexibility, and the upcoming PSTN switch-off in 2027, the answer for many is no.
Traditional landlines tie you to one spot, often with higher call charges and outdated hardware. In today’s world—where customers expect quick responses and businesses need to stay mobile—being stuck to a desk phone just doesn’t cut it anymore.
The good news? You don’t have to lose your number when you ditch your landline. Thanks to VoIP and cloud phone systems, you can take calls directly on your mobile, tablet, or laptop—wherever you are. That means lower costs, more flexibility, and a setup that’s ready for the future.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to move away from your landline, keep your existing number, and enjoy the freedom of taking calls on the go.
Can You Keep Your Landline Number Without a Landline?
Yes, you don’t have to lose your number when you ditch your landline. The process is called number porting, and it lets you move your existing landline number onto a VoIP (internet-based) phone system.
Once ported, your number is no longer tied to a physical landline. Instead, you can receive and make calls in two main ways:
- Call Forwarding to Your Mobile
Your old landline number routes directly to your mobile. Customers keep calling the same number, but the call comes through on your smartphone. Simple, seamless, and great for flexibility. - Using a VoIP App (e.g. Zoiper)
With an app like Zoiper, your landline number connects to your mobile via the internet. That means you can not only receive calls, but also make outgoing calls that display your landline number. It’s professional, reliable, and plugs straight into Plexatalk’s setup—so you get full control over your business calls without being tied to a desk phone.
Either way, you keep your trusted number while gaining the freedom and cost savings of a modern system.
Why Now’s the Best Time to Switch
If you’re still relying on a landline, there’s never been a better time to move on.
- The PSTN/ISDN Switch-Off (2027) – By the end of 2027, all traditional landlines in the UK will be switched off. Waiting until the last minute could mean rushed installations, higher costs, and unnecessary disruption.
- FTTP Broadband Rollout – As fibre broadband expands across the UK, many providers now offer broadband-only packages with no landline option. If you upgrade your internet, you’ll often need a VoIP solution for calls.
- Future-Proofing Communication – Switching to VoIP today means lower costs, more flexibility, and features designed for how we work and live now. Calls on your mobile, voicemail-to-email, and app-based calling make life easier while keeping your number intact.
By making the switch now, you’ll save money, avoid the landline phase-out rush, and future-proof your communication.
Benefits of Ditching the Landline
Moving away from a traditional landline doesn’t mean losing out—it actually unlocks more flexibility and savings. Here are the key benefits:
- Lower Cost – Landlines often come with higher monthly fees and call charges. With VoIP, you typically pay less per month and enjoy cheaper call rates.
- Use Your Mobile as Your Main Phone – Whether for business or home, you can take calls directly on your smartphone. Outbound calls can still display your landline number, keeping things professional.
- Never Miss Calls on the Go – Calls follow you wherever you are—no more being tied to a single handset in one location.
- Works for Home Users and Small Businesses – Perfect for households wanting to cut bills, or for cafés, shops, and small offices that need flexibility without extra costs.
- Keep Your Existing Landline Handset (Optional) – Prefer the feel of a desk phone? With a simple VoIP adapter, you can keep using your traditional handset while benefiting from modern, internet-based calling.
In short, ditching the landline doesn’t just future-proof your setup—it makes day-to-day life easier and more affordable.
How to Switch in 3 Simple Steps
Making the move from landline to VoIP is easier than most people think. Here’s how it works:
- Pick a VoIP Provider
Choose a trusted provider (like Plexatalk) that offers clear pricing, local support, and the features you need—whether for home use or a small business. - Port Your Number
Your existing landline number is transferred (“ported”) to your new VoIP service, so friends, family, or customers can keep calling the number they already know. - Install the Mobile App & Start Taking Calls
Download the VoIP app on your smartphone (or connect via tablet/desktop). From day one, you can receive and make calls on the go—using your landline number without being tied to a physical line.
That’s it. No complex wiring, no downtime—just a quick, modern upgrade that saves money and makes communication more flexible.
FAQs – Ditching Your Landline for Mobile & VoIP
Can I keep my existing landline number?
Yes. Through a process called number porting, your landline number can be moved onto a VoIP system. That means callers still dial your usual number, but the call comes through on your mobile, tablet, or laptop.
Is it more expensive to run my landline on mobile?
No, quite the opposite. Most VoIP plans cost less than traditional landlines and offer cheaper call rates. You’ll also save by not paying for a landline package you no longer use.
What happens when BT switches off landlines in 2027?
In 2027, all PSTN and ISDN landlines will be shut off in the UK. If you’re still on a traditional line by then, you’ll need to switch to VoIP or digital calling. Making the move early means lower costs and less hassle.
Can I still use a desk and dect phones if I want to?
Yes. With a simple VoIP adapter, you can plug in your existing handset and keep using it just like before—only now it runs over the internet.
Do I need fast internet for VoIP to work?
Not necessarily. A stable broadband or fibre connection is usually enough. For most households and small businesses, standard fibre or FTTP broadband works perfectly with VoIP.
Can I make calls that show my landline number?
Yes. With a VoIP app (like Zoiper), you can make outgoing calls that display your landline number—even though you’re dialling from your mobile. That’s especially useful for small businesses that want to appear professional.
How long does it take to switch?
In many cases, you can be up and running within a few days. Number porting may take a little longer, but your new service can usually be set up in parallel to avoid downtime.
Is VoIP only for businesses?
No. VoIP works just as well for home users who want to cut bills and take calls more flexibly. Families, remote workers, and small businesses all benefit from ditching the landline.
Ready to Get Started?
Switching from a landline to VoIP is quick, simple, and cost-effective—and you can keep your existing number. Whether you’re looking to cut household bills or upgrade your business communications, Plexatalk makes it easy. See home pricing here. See business pricing here.