The unexpected BT Redcare closure prompted an inevitable shift for the alarm signalling sector. It led security providers to urgently review their estates to determine whether any legacy Redcare equipment (Classics, GSMs, and Secures) required upgrading. In light of these challenges, many are now considering how to implement Future proof systems that will withstand such changes. Further legacy network switch offs, such as the PSTN due to close in January 2027, are fast approaching too. Therefore, it is even more vital for security providers to take a look at their estate and have a plan in place to upgrade their equipment, if they’ve not already done so. Legacy systems from other providers may still be in place. These will need to be upgraded to continue to work after January. Otherwise, customers will be left unprotected.
Longer term planning must have future-proofed solutions in place and accommodate modern alarm infrastructure. Rather than replacing equipment with a like-for-like, businesses risk exposing customers to downtime in the future. In addition, they risk having repeated site visits to keep replacing equipment.
How can you effectively futureproof an alarm estate?
Installing equipment that is prepared for the evolving alarm sector and its future networks helps providers reduce duplication of effort. Furthermore, it makes operational workflows perform better and creates systems that remain robust as technology continues to evolve.
One customer who we supported with the migration from BT Redcare is Banham Security, a trusted British brand established almost 100 years ago. Banham is known for its bespoke property security services for both homeowners and trade.
In light of the BT Redcare closure, Banham Security took the opportunity to review its wider monitored estate and considered what solution would support both immediate continuity and longer-term resilience. With the existing knowledge of the AddSecure platform and services, and confidence in its suitability for legacy migrations, the security provider chose to work with us. This decision was made to ensure maintained security grading and provide customers with future-ready security capability.
Our experienced team worked collaboratively with Banham Security to complete legacy equipment upgrades with minimal customer disruption. This work was designed with evolving technology capability in mind. Therefore, it could be carried out in a single, planned visit from an engineer. Instead of making repeat visits to change like-for-like replacements for each network update, the team only needed one visit.
The solutions you offer must also have flexibility, and be readily capable of integrating with new IP, cloud or dual-path infrastructure as upgrades take place. Compatibility is a key part of this approach. If upgraded equipment can work across a range of technologies and panels, including older installations, it becomes easier to maintain estates without repeat visits or extensive rewiring.
The solution
We supported Banham Security in implementing the AddSecure Essential IP SP4 and Advanced (DP2 and DP3) signalling solutions across their monitored estate to provide a close technical match to previous single-path signalling. At the same time, we also offered a dual-path capability for Grade 2 and higher-risk environments with stricter insurance requirements. Additionally, Essential IP SP4’s wi-fi compatibility and our Connect and Connect Hub enabled smoother migration without extensive re-cabling or panel replacement. This ensured a straightforward transition. It also reduced time on site for engineers and maintained the high security grading Banham Security’s customers expect.
With a proven platform already established in the UK, we gave Banham Security confidence in long-term stability. Moving to a modern, network-ready solution eliminated the need for repeated system changes as future network upgrades roll out. Therefore, customers can complete their migration in a single upgrade. This approach prepares the estate for whatever technology changes come next.
Futureproofing alarm systems is no longer something businesses can put off. To do so, would risk operational downtime. Businesses need to invest in alarm signalling systems that will remain operational in anticipation of other planned shutdowns. This includes the PSTN switch-off in January 2027. It also includes the phased retirement of 2G/3G networks over the next decade.
To find out more about how to future-proof your alarm estate to avoid service disruption, contact our dedicated team or download our sunsetting guide or our PSTN switch-off guide.