Orange France has officially informed fellow operators and telecom regulator Arcep of its intention to gradually phase out its switched telephone network (PSTN), which is the backbone of traditional analogue and digital telephone services. Orange has specified that this shut down does not concern the copper-pair access network, which provides the backbone for broadband internet access, voice over IP and capacity (leased line) services.
The company explains that its decision derives from the fact that the long-term sustainability of its legacy telephone network could be challenged in the coming years. The equipment and components designed specifically for this network are becoming obsolete and the network itself becoming increasingly difficult to maintain as equipment suppliers are abandoning the technology. It is feared that continuing to operate the network for too long into the future would lead to significant malfunctions and even service outages.
French telecom regulator Arcep said it has begun multilateral work on the prospect of Orange shutting down its PSTN. For several years now, the operator has been engaged in a programme to upgrade its networks and make the transition to all IP. This programme also includes deciding the future of its legacy system. Under a decision adopted in September 2014, Arcep will not oppose Orange's decision to streamline its network, notably by shutting down the PSTN in all or part of the country.
Nevertheless, because such an action would hold considerable consequences for the entire sector, Arcep requires Orange to comply with a series of advance notices: in particular, Orange must give notice of the shut down of the PSTN in any part of the country at least five years in advance. Orange has not given any specific date as yet.
The regulator invites all of the stakeholders (operators, users, consumer associations, trade associations, local authorities, etc.) wanting to take part in this work to contact it by e-mail.
