How will the move to ‘All IP’ networks affect your clients’ alarm systems?

alarm

Authored by NIG

Growing demand for faster broadband and other digital communication services means telecommunication providers globally are migrating to new ‘All IP’ (Internet Protocol) networks.

In the UK, this means the existing predominantly copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be entirely replaced by a faster ‘All IP’ fibre network and infrastructure by 2025. The process has been underway since 2021.

What impact will this have?

The PSTN switch-off will have wide-ranging impacts across many industries, not least because of its implications for alarm signalling.

Many legacy alarm signalling systems rely on the PSTN to dial out to Alarm Receiving Centres. So, once customers transfer to an all-IP connection, these devices will no longer be able to conduct their intended tasks – rendering them ineffective and leaving customers at risk.

All types of alarm systems – intruder, lift, fire or telecare, for example – will be affected, and this will also extend to CCTV systems that use ISDN services.

What can businesses do?

As most products will stop operating once the switchover has been made, it will likely mean upgrading to a new alarm system. The two main providers of signalling systems, Redcare and Dual-Com, have already launched new Internet Protocol and GSM based IP product lines.

Intruder alarm system providers are being encouraged to upgrade end users as soon as possible to avoid being caught in the chaos of last-minute upgrades in the months before the 2025 deadline.

Keeping clients up-to-date

The majority of NIG’s product suite contain an Intruder Alarm Condition that requires the Insured Premises to have a working intruder alarm in full effect. It is therefore vital that your clients are aware of any required upgrades to ensure their systems are compatible with the new set-up.

If you have any questions or would like further information about how to support your clients, please get in touch with your usual NIG contact.

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About NIG

We’ve been experts in commercial insurance for 125 years.

The National Insurance and Guarantee Corporation (NIG) is a broker only insurer; we believe in getting to know both the brokers we work with and their clients’ businesses, building trusted partnerships that last for the long-term. Our highly experienced underwriting team are focused on working with brokers to identify and understand the risks faced by UK enterprises. Together, with our risk control experts and risk management tools we develop solutions to help UK enterprises reduce and mitigate key exposures. We offer a wide range of products with flexibility to create tailored insurance cover and when clients need us, claims are dealt with quickly and fairly through a proactive claims approach.

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We’re investing in new technology to make us even easier to trade with. We’re launching an online risk management resource supported by our in-house Risk Control Team and introduced online claims submissions to speed up the claims process, minimising disruption to clients’ businesses. We are also the only insurer two years running with a five-star rating for both TheHub and Software Houses, in the Insurance Times 2019 and 2020 eTrade survey.

We are dedicated to making UK enterprises more resilient.

NIG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Direct Line Insurance Group plc, providing stability and financial strength. Our policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited.

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