Virtual Landline Guide for Home
A straightforward guide for home users — especially if you or a family member still prefer a traditional BT-style phone handset.
In this guide
What is a virtual landline for home use?
A virtual landline for the home works much like a traditional BT phone line, except calls travel over the internet instead of the old copper telephone network. For most households, this means very little changes day-to-day — you can still use a familiar corded or cordless handset, plug it in the same way, and dial as normal.
Why is this changing for home users?
The UK's copper telephone network is being retired nationwide, with providers moving all customers onto digital alternatives over the coming years. This isn't optional in the long run — every home landline will eventually run over the internet rather than the old copper network.
Will it still work like my old BT phone?
Yes — for most households, a digital/virtual landline uses an adapter that plugs into your existing BT-style corded or cordless phone, so nothing about how you actually use the phone needs to change. You dial the same way, and incoming calls ring exactly as before.
This is particularly reassuring for older or less tech-confident family members who simply want their familiar phone to keep working.
What do I need at home?
- A working home broadband connection
- An adapter or router with phone ports (many modern broadband routers already include this)
- Your existing phone handset, plugged in as before
What if the power or internet goes out?
Unlike traditional landlines, digital phone services typically don't work during a power cut unless you have a battery backup unit — this is worth asking your provider about, especially for households that rely on the landline for emergency calls.
How we can help
We help households and family members set up digital/virtual landlines correctly, including battery backup options for peace of mind. If you're supporting an older relative through this switch, we're happy to talk it through in plain English and get it set up. See our VOIP Services or get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to switch to a virtual landline?
Yes, eventually — the UK's traditional copper phone network is being retired nationally, so all homes will move to a digital alternative over time.
Will my phone number change?
No, in almost all cases your existing number can be kept when moving to a digital/virtual landline.
Can I still use my old corded phone?
Yes — with the right adapter, your existing handset generally continues to work exactly as before.
Want advice tailored to your situation?
Get in touch and we'll give you a straight answer — no obligation.