What is a POTS Line?
Recent regulatory changes by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), notably in 2022 and set for 2025, are pushing companies to transition away from copper-based Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS). These changes mean costs for POTS are rising significantly.
Users reliant on old phone lines, businesses operating life-safety equipment or still using traditional fax machines need practical alternatives like Fax.Plus.
Why Understanding POTS Matters Today
A POTS line is a traditional, copper-wire telephone connection that carries voice as an analog electrical signal over a dedicated circuit between your location and the local telephone exchange, distinct from newer digital services like VoIP.
History of POTS lines
Late 1800s: First introduced after Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876.
1876–1980: Grew from invention to a telecom monopoly across the U.S.
1980–2000: Digital switching technologies emerged, but homes and businesses still relied heavily on analog connections.
2000–Present: Declining use due to widespread adoption of mobile phones and broadband internet.
Current Status & Important Deadlines
Usage Today: Less than 20% of voice lines in the U.S., and continuing to decline.
August 2, 2022: Deregulation allowing phone companies to increase prices.
March 20, 2025: Retirement of copper networks begins, pushing users toward modern alternatives.
Regulatory & Market Landscape
Who is Affected?
Small businesses still using traditional fax machines
Enterprises operating life-safety equipment
Rural users reliant on old phone lines
Are You Still Depending on POTS Lines Without Knowing It?
Should You Keep or Replace Your POTS Line?
Keeping a POTS line might feel comfortable, but the reality is that costs and maintenance are steadily increasing, and disruptions can become frequent. Traditional phone lines aren't getting cheaper or easier to maintain.
If stability and regulatory compliance are your primary needs, then maintaining your POTS line (for now) could make sense. However, if your priority is cutting costs, avoiding maintenance headaches, and future-proofing your communications, it's clearly time to consider alternatives.
Fax.Plus: POTS Replacement Alternative for Faxing
Send and receive faxes from your phone, computer or email—no machine required.
Works in over 180 countries.
Free plan option.
Why Fax.Plus?
Get local or toll-free fax number
Start faxing now.
Create an account to save time and money by sending free faxes from a computer or mobile to anywhere in the world.
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