The Public Switched Telephone Network in Transition
The Federal Communications Commission held two workshops to examine the transition from the public switched telephone network (PSTN) to new technologies. Circuit-switched wireline voice technology has created a high standard for reliability, accessibility, and ubiquity. Consumers will continue to expect and demand these qualities, even as they shift from PSTN services to services provided over different networks. The transition away from the PSTN is already occurring, and is likely to accelerate. Through these workshops, the Commission will seek input on the technical, economic, and policy issues that must be addressed to minimize disruption during this transition, and to protect consumers, public safety, competition, and other important interests