What Vodafone’s Digital Voice Means
Vodafone’s Digital Voice service is part of the UK’s nationwide move from traditional copper phone lines to a fully digital network. Instead of using the old analogue system, Vodafone’s Digital Landline connects your home phone through your broadband router. This technology, often called VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), lets you make and receive calls over the internet while still using your familiar landline handset.
The change is part of the national copper landline shutdown, due to complete by 2027, when all UK phone providers will move to digital-only services. This upgrade is designed to make phone networks more reliable and future-proof, but it also means that anyone still using an analogue landline will eventually need to switch to a Digital Voice or VoIP setup.
If you’re considering leaving Vodafone, you might worry about what happens to your landline and phone number. The good news is you can keep your landline when switching from Vodafone — you don’t have to lose your number or give up having a home phone altogether. With the right provider, your Digital Landline can move with you, so you can enjoy the same service (and even the same phone) without interruption. Understanding how Vodafone’s Digital Voice system works helps you plan ahead and make the switch smoothly.
Vodafone’s Digital Voice: What You Already Have
If you’re a Vodafone home phone customer, chances are you’re already using Digital Voice — Vodafone’s Digital Landline service that works through your broadband connection rather than the old copper network. Instead of plugging your phone into a wall socket, your handset connects directly to your router. Calls are carried over the internet using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, giving you clear, reliable voice quality through your broadband line.
This setup is part of the UK’s nationwide switch to digital telephony, ahead of the 2027 copper landline shutdown. Vodafone has already moved many broadband customers to Digital Voice, especially new sign-ups and anyone upgrading their package. Some households are still on traditional copper lines during this transition phase, but all will eventually move to digital.
There are a few important differences to be aware of. Because Digital Voice depends on your broadband connection and mains power, your phone won’t work during a power cut unless you have a backup battery or mobile signal. Some older devices — such as medical alarms, fax machines, or wired extension phones — may not be compatible with VoIP setups and could need an update or replacement.
Despite these changes, Vodafone still advertises “landline included” within many of its broadband plans. That means you don’t lose your home phone — it simply works in a more modern way. So when you keep your landline when switching from Vodafone, you’re really just taking your Digital Landline service (and your number) with you, ensuring a smooth move into the all-digital future.
What Happens When You Leave Vodafone (Switching Broadband / Provider)
If you’ve been upgraded to Vodafone’s Digital Voice service, your home phone number is now linked to your Vodafone broadband connection rather than a copper landline. This means that your Digital Landline operates entirely through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology — your calls are routed over the internet instead of the traditional phone network.
When you decide to switch broadband providers, your Digital Voice number is tied to Vodafone’s system. If you cancel your broadband before arranging a transfer, Vodafone may automatically disconnect your digital phone line — and with it, your phone number. This is why many customers worry about losing their long-held home number when moving to a new service.
The good news is that you can still keep your landline when switching from Vodafone. UK telecom regulations give you a legal right to port your number to another provider, even if you’re currently using a Digital Voice or VoIP setup. The key is timing: your new provider must initiate the number port before Vodafone closes your account. Once the number is cancelled, it can’t always be recovered.
Some users have reported confusion about whether numbers already migrated to Vodafone Digital Voice can be ported easily. While the process can take a little longer for digital lines, it is still possible — and protected by Ofcom’s number portability rules. So if you plan ahead and let your new provider handle the switch, you can keep your landline when switching from Vodafone without losing your number or connection.
Why Customers Switch from Vodafone
People choose to switch from Vodafone for a variety of reasons — often related to cost, performance, or flexibility. While Vodafone’s Digital Voice and Digital Landline services offer reliable calling through broadband, some customers find that other providers offer faster speeds, better pricing, or more flexible bundles that suit their needs and bettter uptime. Such as the most recent downtime.
In some cases, households have experienced issues such as router compatibility or a lack of clarity about how VoIP services work during the transition from copper lines. Others simply prefer a provider that offers clearer guidance on how to keep your landline when switching from Vodafone, or easier ways to manage both broadband and home phone in one place.
As the UK approaches the 2027 copper switch-off, more people are reviewing their digital phone options and comparing packages. Switching provider doesn’t mean you have to lose your phone number or home phone service — with the right setup, you can take your Digital Landline with you. Knowing your options helps ensure you keep your landline when switching from Vodafone and stay connected on your terms.
Alternatives & Solutions: Keep Your Number with VoIP
If you want to keep your landline when switching from Vodafone, one of the most flexible options is to move your number to an independent VoIP provider such as PlexaTalk. These services let you port your existing Vodafone number and use it over any broadband connection — meaning your phone number is no longer tied to a specific internet provider or physical line.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) works much like Vodafone’s Digital Voice system. Instead of relying on the old copper network, calls are made and received over your broadband. You can plug a standard phone into a VoIP adapter, use a VoIP-enabled handset, or even take calls on your computer or mobile app. In essence, it’s the same Digital Landline technology Vodafone uses, just provided independently — giving you far more control.
By moving your Vodafone number to a standalone VoIP service, you can stay connected no matter what broadband provider you use. If you change internet suppliers, move home, or even work remotely, your phone number stays with you. That’s something you can’t always guarantee if your number remains tied to Vodafone’s own Digital Voice platform.
The advantages go beyond portability. Independent VoIP services like PlexaTalk often include extra features such as voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, and the ability to manage calls through an online dashboard. Many users also find call quality clearer and setup simpler than expected.
So whether you’re upgrading your broadband, relocating, or simply looking for more freedom, a VoIP provider can make it easy to keep your landline when switching from Vodafone — ensuring your number, calls, and connections move with you wherever you go.
How to Switch your Digital Landline from Vodafone to Plexatalk (or Another VoIP) — Step by Step
1) Check number eligibility.
Start by confirming your Vodafone number can be ported. Nearly all UK geographic numbers are portable (it’s your legal right), including those already on Digital Voice/Digital Landline. Gather your latest Vodafone bill, the exact account holder name, service address, and the number(s) to port.
2) Choose a VoIP provider and queue the port.
Sign up with Plexatalk (or another independent VoIP provider) and submit a porting request before cancelling Vodafone. Provide the details above and pick a preferred port date. This is the key to keep your landline when switching from Vodafone—your new provider coordinates the transfer so the number doesn’t get disconnected.
3) Prepare your equipment.
Decide how you’ll connect:
- ATA adapter (e.g., Grandstream/Yealink) to plug your existing phone into your router. – We can supply preconfigured ones.
- VoIP handset that connects directly via Ethernet/Wi-Fi.
- Apps/softphone on mobile/PC for immediate use anywhere.
Your VoIP provider will supply SIP credentials; enter them into the ATA/handset/app. Keep your Vodafone broadband and Digital Voice active until port day.
4) Port day: minimal downtime.
On the scheduled date, inbound calls move to your VoIP provider (the cutover window is typically minutes). Power-cycle your ATA/handset after you receive the port-complete notice. Verify inbound/outbound calls and voicemail.
5) Cancel Vodafone—after success.
Once the number is working on VoIP, contact Vodafone to cease the phone service (and broadband only if you’re switching that too). This sequencing ensures you keep your landline when switching from Vodafone and enjoy a portable, feature-rich Digital Landline over any broadband.
Benefits of Using a Third-Party VoIP Over Staying with Vodafone
Choosing an independent VoIP provider instead of staying with Vodafone’s Digital Voice gives you far greater flexibility and control over your home phone service. When you keep your landline when switching from Vodafone by porting your number to a third-party VoIP service, you’re no longer tied to one broadband provider or their equipment. Your number becomes completely portable — you can move home, change internet suppliers, or upgrade your router without losing your Digital Landline.
Independent VoIP services often include a richer feature set than standard broadband phone plans. You can enjoy extras like voicemail-to-email, custom call forwarding, call recording, virtual numbers, or mobile app access — features rarely included with Vodafone’s built-in Digital Voice system. Many providers, such as Plexatalk, also offer competitive pricing, meaning you could save money while gaining more advanced functionality.
Another major benefit is hardware freedom. Vodafone’s Digital Voice requires specific routers or adapters to connect your home phone, but with a third-party VoIP setup, you can use almost any compatible device — from standard phones with an ATA adapter to dedicated VoIP handsets or softphone apps.
Finally, switching to an independent VoIP provider is a smart move for the future. As the UK’s copper network shutdown approaches in 2027, having a fully digital, broadband-based solution keeps you ahead of the curve. You’ll already be set up with a system designed for the all-digital future — one that you control, not your broadband company.
By taking this route, you can keep your landline when switching from Vodafone, maintain ownership of your number, and enjoy a more flexible, future-proof Digital Landline that works wherever you do.
keep your landline when switching from Vodafone – FAQ
Can I port my Vodafone number after cancellation?
Once your Vodafone line is cancelled, the number is usually lost – there is a 30 day period after cancellation but there’s no guarantee all providers are sticking to this. To keep your landline when switching from Vodafone, your new VoIP provider must submit the porting request before Vodafone closes your account. Number porting is your legal right in the UK, but it only applies to active numbers.
What if I already have Digital Voice?
If you’ve been moved to Vodafone’s Digital Voice or Digital Landline, you can still port your number to another VoIP service, such as PlexaTalk. The process is similar but may take slightly longer since the number is digital rather than copper-based.
Will there be downtime?
Porting typically causes only a few minutes of downtime while your number switches to the new VoIP system. Keeping both services active until you receive confirmation ensures a smooth transition.
What about during power cuts?
Vodafone’s Digital Voice and all VoIP services rely on your broadband connection and electricity. During power outages, your home phone won’t work unless you have a backup battery or mobile alternative for emergencies.
Will my alarms, doorbells, or extension sockets still work?
Some older analogue devices may not function correctly with digital or VoIP lines. You may need to upgrade to compatible models or use specialist adapters. Your Digital Landline provider can advise on suitable replacements or connection options.
Keep your landline when switching from Vodafone
The UK’s move to digital phone services doesn’t mean you have to lose your home number or give up having a landline. By planning ahead and choosing the right VoIP solution, you can keep your landline when switching from Vodafone and enjoy greater flexibility, lower costs, and more control over your home phone setup.
Independent providers like PlexaTalk make it easy to port your Vodafone number, set up a reliable Digital Landline, and future-proof your phone service long before the 2027 copper switch-off. You’ll stay connected wherever you go — whether you’re changing broadband providers, moving home, or simply looking for a better deal.
Don’t risk losing your number or service by cancelling first. Take control of your connection today and discover how simple it is to keep your landline when switching from Vodafone with a modern, flexible VoIP provider that works on your terms.