Why Are Traditional Copper POTS Landlines Still Working?

Despite the ongoing transition to digital communication technologies, many businesses and households still find that traditional copper POTS landlines are operational. With telecom companies phasing out copper infrastructure and encouraging users to switch to modern alternatives, it raises the question—why are traditional copper POTS landlines still working, and how long can businesses continue relying on them?

Understanding why POTS lines are still functioning requires looking at the broader shift in the telecommunications industry and the factors delaying a complete shutdown.

Why Haven’t  Landlines Been Completely Shut Down?

Telecom providers have been working toward eliminating copper landlines for years, but a complete shutdown is a complex process that takes time. There are several reasons why traditional POTS landlines are still functional in some areas.

One major factor is the existing infrastructure. Copper phone lines have been in place for decades, covering extensive geographic regions, including rural and remote areas where fiber-optic or cellular networks have yet to be fully deployed. Removing and replacing these lines with digital solutions requires significant investment, and not all locations have transitioned yet.

Another reason is that some businesses and institutions still rely on copper landlines for essential services, including fire alarm systems, elevators, and security alarms. Many of these systems were designed to operate over traditional telephone lines, making an immediate switch difficult without upgrading the entire system. Until alternative solutions are widely adopted and required by regulations, some providers continue to support POTS lines to avoid disrupting critical services.

Are Telecom Providers Still Supporting Copper Landlines?

While traditional POTS lines are still operational in some areas, major telecom providers have significantly reduced their support for these services. Many providers no longer offer new copper landline installations and have begun raising the monthly costs for existing users to encourage migration to digital alternatives.

AT&T has announced that it will discontinue its traditional copper landline service by 2029, marking a firm deadline for businesses still using POTS lines. This means that any business relying on AT&T’s infrastructure must transition to a new communication solution before then or risk losing service entirely. Other telecom providers are following suit, gradually retiring their copper networks and shifting focus to digital and wireless alternatives.

Regulatory changes have also allowed providers to step away from maintaining copper landline infrastructure. The FCC POTS Lines Forbearance Order 19-72A1 lifted the obligation for telecom companies to service and maintain copper lines, allowing them to retire these networks at their discretion. As a result, some users may still have working copper landlines, but support and maintenance for these systems are becoming increasingly limited.

Will Copper Landlines Eventually Stop Working?

Yes, copper landlines will eventually be phased out entirely. The transition from POTS lines is already happening, with many businesses experiencing higher costs, degraded service quality, and fewer repair options. Even though some traditional copper POTS landlines are still working today, their reliability is declining, and businesses that depend on them may face sudden service disruptions as providers continue shutting down outdated infrastructure.

Many telecom companies have announced specific timelines for retiring POTS services. While some regions still have working copper landlines, businesses should not assume these services will remain available indefinitely. The best approach is to transition to a modern alternative before being forced into a last-minute change when service is discontinued.

What Should Businesses Do to Prepare?

Businesses relying on POTS lines should proactively switch to a more reliable and cost-effective communication solution. Upgrading to a digital or cellular-based alternative ensures continuity, eliminates the risk of service loss, and provides access to modern features unavailable with traditional landlines.

Cellular POTS replacement solutions are designed to support essential business systems, including fire alarms, security systems, and elevators. These solutions provide a seamless transition while maintaining the necessary connectivity for critical operations.

Since telecom providers are gradually phasing out support for copper landlines, waiting too long to switch could result in unexpected service failures or increased costs. Businesses should evaluate their communication needs now and explore the best alternative before their existing service is no longer an option.

Switch To a Cellular Connection and Stop Relying on Copper POTS Landlines

Traditional copper landlines are still working, but their days are numbered. The shift to digital and cellular alternatives is underway, and telecom providers are reducing support for outdated copper infrastructure. While some users may still have access to POTS lines, businesses should not rely on them for the long term.

By transitioning to a modern communication solution, businesses can avoid last-minute disruptions, reduce costs, and ensure their essential systems remain operational. Planning ahead is the best way to stay ahead of the inevitable phase-out of copper landlines. Contact us today to make the switch.