KPN has announced that the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is being phased out. This means that customers with an ISDN line need to look for an alternative solution.

In this article, we explain what is changing and why. You’ll discover whether your ISDN system needs to be replaced and what alternatives are available for the old ISDN line.

ISDN Ends on September 1, 2019

In the 1990s, many people opted for an ISDN phone line. Unlike an analog connection, this allowed simultaneous calling and internet use. Since multiple phones could be connected to such a line, it was also a popular choice for many businesses.

And if something works, there’s no need to change it, right? Never change a winning team. No wonder you’re still enjoying the benefits of an ISDN connection. However, the ISDN chapter is coming to an end: after September 1, 2019, KPN’s ISDN lines will no longer be operational.

Update: The ISDN network has now been discontinued, and all telephony is conducted via VoIP. This article remains available to guide internet users toward a new number or VoIP solution.

Why KPN is Discontinuing ISDN

“We are continuously modernizing our telephony networks,” writes KPN on its website. “That’s why we’ve decided to phase out ISDN1 and ISDN2 as of September 1, 2019.”

The main reason for discontinuing ISDN is that more people are using powerful ADSL or cable connections for internet. These connections also pave the way for internet-based calling: VoIP. As a result, maintaining ISDN lines has become too expensive.

VoIP calling is cheaper, making it logical for more individuals and businesses to switch to it. Additionally, the sound quality on both ends of the line is digital—no matter where the callers are in the world.

VoIP: The Successor to ISDN

KPN customers still using an ISDN connection must find an alternative in time. That alternative is VoIP. It’s estimated that VoIP usage in businesses will grow by 30% annually.

You can keep your current phone number. What changes is that calls are received ‘in the cloud,’ from where they are forwarded to your current or new phones. A physical phone system is no longer necessary, as all the functionalities of such a system can now be managed via a computer or smartphone.

Example: You have a local phone number via ISDN that you want to switch to VoIP. Your VoIP number forwards calls to your mobile phone. Alternatively, you can answer calls using software (similar to Skype) on your computer.

Do I Need to Replace My ISDN System?

When KPN pulls the plug, your ISDN system will no longer be functional. You could try selling it to someone in a country that still uses ISDN lines. A more logical and easier option is to return the ISDN system to KPN or recycle it.

KPN will undoubtedly try its best to retain ISDN customers and convert them to VoIP. Why? Because KPN knows this is the perfect moment for many businesses to explore other options. After all, KPN no longer has a monopoly on fixed telephony.

The special VoIP phones KPN currently offers may suffice for now, but not forever. The phones will eventually need replacement, and a better device may become available. At that point, you’ll need to look for a new solution again.

So, what can you do to ensure a future-proof number? How can you remain reachable, even if the type of phone or phone line you use changes?

The answer: by transferring your current phone number to Belfabriek or registering a new virtual number with us. You can then forward the phone number to any device—physical or software-based, fixed or mobile.

Many companies already have a BYOD (bring your own device) policy for employees. This makes it easy to forward your number to colleagues’ mobile phones. We explain this further below.

Future-Proof with a New Provider

KPN will likely try to entice you with offers and gifts, but it’s important to stay level-headed. Once the temporary discount for switchers ends, you’ll pay the full price. Are the services and features truly the same or better than those offered by other providers?

If it’s time for a new telephony infrastructure, we’re an excellent option! Active since 2000, thousands of businesses have chosen us. That’s no surprise, as our package is very comprehensive and competitively priced. Let’s outline the benefits of having a phone number with Belfabriek:

  • Virtual Phone Number: A VoIP number is a virtual phone number. It seamlessly forwards calls to the phone device of your choice—whether it’s a landline, mobile phone, or IP phone. You can even take calls via a ‘softphone’ on your computer, turning it into a phone.
  • Mix End Destinations: You can fully customize the destinations where callers are directed—the so-called end destinations. For example, forward billing inquiries to the administrative staff’s phone, quote requests to the representative’s mobile, and support questions to the VoIP lines of the external call center.
  • Clear and Transparent: With Belfabriek, you know exactly what you’re getting: everything. For our very comprehensive package, you pay a fixed, low monthly fee. The only additional costs are for incoming calls. No fine print and no unpleasant surprises.
  • Many Extra Features: While other providers charge extra for each phone feature, they’re included with Belfabriek. From a queue to a menu and a digital answering machine, you can add these features to your phone number to enhance the caller experience.
  • Unlimited Settings Changes: The fact that extra features are free means you can experiment with them as much as you like. If circumstances change, you can easily update a message or forward calls to another phone number.
  • Real-Time Statistics: Curious about who’s calling and how long calls last on average? View call statistics in real-time via the app or web browser. This allows you to respond immediately to call peaks or lulls.

Transfer Your Number or Request a New Phone Number?

Now that it’s clear you need to replace the ISDN system (update 2020: the ISDN network has been discontinued, and everyone now calls via VoIP, but this article remains for reference), your visit to this website is a great opportunity to start transferring your number. In this article, we explain how to initiate such a transfer. Prefer to discuss this with us by phone? Call us for free at 0800–BELFABRIEK (0800–235 3227)!