The rise of copper-based fixed network switch-offs: key factors to consider

A growing range of fixed network operators in diverse markets across the world are in the process of decommissioning their legacy copper-based fixed networks – being replaced with fibre or fixed wireless access (FWA) infrastructure – with some having already successfully completed this. Fibre networks offer superior performance and are also more reliable and longer-lasting than copper. For example, BT states that there are 70–80% fewer faults on a full fibre network, compared to a hybrid (fibre and copper) VDSL network. In this report, we highlight recent developments and trends for switch-offs, as well as various factors that key stakeholders involved in copper-network switch-offs need to consider.