Navigating the Big Phone Switch Off: Satellite vs. SOGEA and Why First Base Solutions Makes the Difference

Navigating the Big Phone Switch Off: Satellite vs. SOGEA and Why First Base Solutions Makes the Difference

The telecommunications landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, most notably marked by the “big phone switch off” in which traditional PSTN and ISDN lines are being phased out in favour of more modern alternatives. Businesses are now faced with a choice, primarily between Satellite communications and Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SOGEA) for their connectivity solutions. This transition, while promising improved efficiency and reliability, comes with its challenges, particularly when dealing with major providers. Here, we share a recent experience where First Base Solutions Ltd stepped in to navigate these complexities, showcasing the benefits of choosing a provider that combines IT expertise with personalised service.

The Shift to SOGEA and Satellite: A Quick Overview

SOGEA offers a direct connection to the internet without the need for a traditional phone line, streamlining the setup and potentially offering better stability and speed. On the other hand, Satellite solutions, such as Starlink, provide internet access through satellites, an excellent option for areas where terrestrial broadband services are unreliable or unavailable.

A recent case highlighted the pitfalls one might encounter during this transition. A well-known provider informed our client that their existing phone line was obsolete, pushing them towards a SOGEA upgrade. However, the immediate cancellation of their current service left them without internet for nearly three months. In their time of need, First Base Solutions provided a Satellite solution to keep their IT infrastructure running seamlessly.

Moreover, the client faced issues with phone number porting, receiving non-functional hardware, and inadequate WiFi coverage — challenges that their original provider failed to address. This situation exemplifies the risks of navigating these upgrades without the right support.

First Base Solutions: Your IT and Telecommunications Ally

Rescuing Lost Services: When the client was told their phone number couldn’t be retrieved, we recovered it, integrating it into a SIP Trunk with a small 3CX system. This not only salvaged an essential asset but also ensured continuity in their communications.

Ensuring Functional Hardware: The ordeal of receiving non-functional phones and routers from their provider was more than just an inconvenience; it was a disruption to their business. At First Base Solutions, we ensure that such critical transitions are smooth. We always visit the site to perform installations, guaranteeing that everything works perfectly from day one.

Custom WiFi Solutions: Faced with inadequate WiFi coverage that only extended to their office, leaving the rest of their premises disconnected, we stepped in to rectify the situation. Unlike their previous provider, we committed to resolving the issue comprehensively, ensuring WiFi coverage that meets their business needs.

Avoiding Contractual Pitfalls: The client found themselves locked into a two-year contract with a system that was ill-suited for their operations. This predicament underscores the importance of having IT experts evaluate and recommend solutions that align with your business requirements.

Choosing the Right Partner

The transition to modern telecommunications solutions like SOGEA and Satellite internet should mark a step forward for your business, not a leap into uncertainty. The challenges faced by our client serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in upgrading your telecommunications infrastructure.

At First Base Solutions, we pride ourselves on being more than just a service provider; we’re your IT and telecommunications partner. Our approach combines technical expertise with a commitment to understanding and addressing your unique business needs, ensuring that your transition to new telecommunications solutions is seamless, effective, and tailored to support your success.

Conclusion

The “big phone switch off” represents both an opportunity and a challenge. As traditional phone lines become a thing of the past, selecting the right partner for your transition to SOGEA or Satellite communications is crucial. With First Base Solutions, you can rest assured that your telecommunications upgrade is in expert hands, backed by a team committed to ensuring your business stays connected, efficient, and ahead of the curve. Be careful who you trust with your telecommunications upgrade; ensure they are IT devices handled by IT experts like us, dedicated to supporting your business every step of the way.