Updated October 2026. Originally published January 30, 2025.
Traditional copper phone lines are on their way out. AT&T plans to essentially retire its copper network by 2029 (Telecompetitor), and in March 2026 the FCC moved to simplify the rules that govern retiring copper networks (Fiber Broadband Association). For businesses still relying on traditional lines, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the practical path forward, and it brings real advantages beyond simply replacing a dial tone.
Nine advantages of VoIP
Lower costs. Traditional phone systems carry setup and maintenance costs for on-site hardware and separate phone lines. VoIP runs over your internet connection, which typically lowers those costs, along with long-distance and international calling charges.
Agility and mobility. Staff can make and take business calls from a desk phone, laptop or mobile app anywhere they have a reliable connection. That matters in the industries we serve: in June 2026, 52.5% of workers in financial activities and 41.8% in professional and business services teleworked (BLS).
Disaster recovery. If an office loses power or connectivity, calls can be rerouted to another location, to mobile apps or to voicemail, keeping your business reachable with minimal downtime.
High-quality audio. On a properly configured network with adequate bandwidth, VoIP delivers clear, high-definition audio that matches or exceeds traditional lines.
Less hardware. A hosted VoIP system replaces the on-premises phone system in the back closet. Phones simply plug into the network, which reduces hardware costs and clutter.
Scalability. Adding or removing lines takes minutes, not a service call. Whether you are opening a branch or downsizing, the system adjusts with you.
Integrated features. Voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, auto attendants, call recording and integrations with customer relationship management (CRM) and collaboration tools come standard in most modern platforms.
Environmental impact. Fewer on-site systems mean less equipment to manufacture, power and cool, which supports more sustainable operations.
The new standard. With carriers retiring copper and regulators moving to ease the transition (Fiber Broadband Association), internet-based voice is becoming the standard for business phone service. Moving now lets you plan the change on your schedule instead of a carrier's.
What to plan for before you switch
911 compliance. Under Kari's Law, multi-line telephone systems must allow users to dial 911 directly, without a prefix, and must notify a central point such as a front desk. RAY BAUM'S Act rules require a dispatchable location, such as a street address plus floor or room, to be sent with 911 calls from these systems and from interconnected VoIP services (Kelley Drye).
Network readiness. Voice quality depends on your network. Plan for sufficient bandwidth, quality of service settings, a backup internet connection and battery backup for network equipment.
Security. Protect admin portals with multifactor authentication, restrict international calling you do not need, and monitor for toll fraud. Criminals increasingly use the phone: in phishing simulations, voice and text lures succeeded at a median rate 40% higher than email (Verizon DBIR).
Legacy lines. Alarm panels, elevators and fax machines often still depend on copper lines. Identify them early so they are not left behind.
Make the move to VoIP with Starfish Computer
Starfish Computer helps businesses move to VoIP smoothly and effectively. We know new technology can feel daunting, so we provide support through every step, from initial assessment to full implementation and ongoing maintenance, tailored to your business. If you are ready to replace aging phone lines, contact Starfish Computer to discuss how VoIP can support your business's communication.
Protect your business: start with an assessment
The question isn’t whether your business will face a cyber threat, but whether you’ll be ready when it does. Since 1994, Starfish Computer Corporation has helped businesses across Northeast Ohio:
Assess current security posture and risk
Plan a cybersecurity roadmap aligned to NIST CSF 2.0
Implement the right tools and processes for your size and budget
Train your team on today’s threats, including AI-driven scams
Support and improve your security over time
Call (440) 808-0468 or visit starfishcomputer.com to schedule a security assessment.
About the author
R.J. Arhar is President of Starfish Computer Corporation. He has more than 35 years of experience in IT, served as a consultant to the National Institutes of Health, led IT operations for an international security company with more than 8,000 users, and is the author of Attack or Defend – When is Enough Cybersecurity Enough?
This post provides general cybersecurity guidance. Requirements vary by industry and business. Statistics are current as of October 2026; consult Starfish Computer Corporation for a plan tailored to your risk profile.