The FCC’s Plan to Phase Out Copper Landlines and Embrace Digital Networks
For generations, America’s analog phone lines served the population efficiently. These copper-wire landlines enabled early mass telephone communication. Through these wires, people dialed long-distance, ordered pizza, chatted with friends, and called 1-800 numbers. Clearly, the system shaped daily life.
The development of the phone system demonstrates American ingenuity, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. It was a national achievement. With the digital-driven 20th century, traditional copper-wire landlines are rapidly changing. Consequently, the legacy network is being replaced by broadband systems.
This new, digital framework will provide communities with high-speed access. Therefore, Americans will enjoy modern communication conveniences. Overall, this transition from analog to digital is known as POTS, or Plain Old Telephone Service, replacement.
Out with the Old Network
The copper landline network served the country well for many decades. However, it lacks the speed and capacity modern technology provides. For instance, VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, offers faster service and greater reliability. Moreover, cellular phones now dominate communication.
As of 2018, only five percent of Americans were landline-only. Over half of the country relied exclusively on cellphones. Clearly, change was inevitable. The Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, recognized this shift years ago. In 2014, it set the groundwork for the network shutdown. By 2020, America plans to move fully to digital platforms. Telephone companies received permission to replace copper wiring with modern networks. Importantly, this transition does not mean losing service. Instead, companies provide a low-cost digital network with equal or improved reliability.
For example, in 2017, AT&T received Illinois permission to move landline customers onto digital systems. This shows the process is already underway.
…and in with the New Network
Companies still using legacy landlines should start POTS replacement immediately. Otherwise, they may fall behind on modern communication standards. Digital systems provide convenience, speed, and superior service. Therefore, businesses benefit from moving to LTE or other enterprise-class solutions. MarketSpark offers 4G/LTE POTS replacement with a 100 percent uptime guarantee. Additionally, a customer dashboard provides real-time insight into every line. If you need to replace old copper lines in fire alarms, elevators, or point-of-sale terminals, digital LTE solutions work effectively.
MarketSpark delivers managed services for commercial buildings. Consequently, enterprises gain reliability, monitoring, and reduced maintenance costs.
Explore how MarketSpark can modernize your communication network today.