As the Great Copper Switch-Off approaches, households and businesses must prepare for such a significant technological change and ensure they’re prepared for life after copper networks. By the end of 2025, all British homes are expected to transition to fibre-based systems, replacing the age-old copper network that’s been used in telecommunications for almost 150 years.

Naturally, people have questions and concerns about the change and want to ensure a smooth transition. After all, society is more connected and reliant on technology than ever before. Whether you'll be automatically switched to full-fibre optic before the copper switch-off depends on your service provider and the infrastructure available in your area.

If you're unsure whether you'll be automatically switched to an alternative service before the copper switch-off, it's essential to reach out to your service provider for clarification.

Understanding the Copper Switch-Off

The copper switch-off refers to the gradual decommissioning of traditional copper-based phone networks in favour of newer, more advanced technologies such as full-fibre broadband and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). This transition is driven by several factors, including the ageing infrastructure of copper networks, the increasing demand for high-speed internet access, and the desire to modernise telecom infrastructure.

As providers phase out their copper networks, customers who rely on them for phone and broadband services will need to transition to alternative technologies and new phone lines like Wildanet’s Phoneline+ service (VoIP) to maintain connectivity.

Alternatives to Copper Network

If you’re currently using a copper-based phone and/or internet service, you’ll need to explore alternative options as soon as possible. The main alternatives are fibre-optic broadband and full-fibre broadband, which offer faster speeds and more reliable connections. Fibre optic broadband uses thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data using pulses of light, allowing for much higher speeds compared to traditional copper cables. Most households will switch to this service following the copper switch-off.

• Full Fibre broadband: Connects your home/business directly to the exchange using fibre optic cables. 
• Fibre-optic broadband: Utilises fibre cables from the exchange to your street cabinet, then uses older copper cables to connect to your home.

Another alternative is mobile broadband, which utilises cellular networks (3G, 4G, and 5G) to provide online connectivity. This can be a viable option for those who do not have access to fibre optic services in their area. However, it is important to note that mobile broadband may not offer the same speeds and stability as fibre optic connections.

What is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is an Internet-based technology that allows you to make and receive phone calls. It has been used since the 1990s. While regular PSTN and ISDN phone lines rely on copper cable networks, VoIP just requires an Internet connection and hardware that’s compatible.

Switching from the Copper Network to VoIP

Users will need new routers to ensure a smooth transition, which will be provided by your service provider. Also, older phones will need to be upgraded for VoIP compatibility and users with care alarms and other telemetry devices will also require a hardware upgrade. Once users switch to digital, there should be little to no difference. The phones will work in the same way, with the main difference being the way they connect and transfer data.