Standards Policy and Architecture

The Networks and Connectivity Centre of Excellence sets national standards and supports the NHS with architecture design to get the most out of its existing wired and wireless networks deployments and infrastructure.

Networks and connectivity standards for all NHS organisations have been developed and are currently available for your review and feedback. 

June 2026 update: Version 1.1 of the networks and connectivity standards has now been published on FutureNHS (login required).

These standards are for all NHS organisations and cover 8 core areas.

• fixed line connectivity
• network switching
• network cabling
• network management
• wireless at NHS sites
• wireless on the move
• leadership and governance
• security and compliance

Each standard explains the importance of meeting the standard, when to meet it, how to meet it and the relevant technical requirements. The standards include reference to other relevant national frameworks policies and regulatory requirements, including the NHS Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT).

Future content will include: 

• documented, reusable design and implementation approaches to Networks and Connectivity architecture and design to support consistent, scalable, and efficient network delivery across the NHS
• Networks and Connectivity Standards compliance self-assessment tool and support

This section includes links to information and resources useful for NHS network managers and those responsible for managing and setting strategies, networks and connectivity infrastructure.

PSTN switch off

The PSTN switch off is happening in January 2027. Guidance on FutureNHS: PSTN/ISDN Switch-Off for the NHS (login required).

2G switch off

The 2G switch off is mandated for 2033 although many services will cease before that date. Guidance on FutureNHS: 2G / 3G Switch-Off for the NHS (login required). 
 

Changes to the NHS Secure Boundary service 

There are upcoming changes to the NHS Secure Boundary service. When this work starts, the NHS secure Boundary team will contact you directly with details of the updated onboarding process and any action you may need to take.

If you have any questions or need support, email: [email protected] or speak to your regional security lead.

Check the Cyber and data security centre

Check the Cyber and data security centre for the latest cyber alerts and incidents information.

Join the Networks and Connectivity Centre of Excellence FutureNHS community to read and provide your feedback on the latest version of the Networks and Connectivity Standards ahead of their full publication later this year. 

Or you can request to join our Networks and Connectivity community of practice by emailing [email protected]. 

Feedback form

Submit a question or request for support on Networks and Connectivity CoE Standards Policy and Architecture using our feedback form.