The UK is undergoing a major broadband transformation. If your business still relies on FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), now is the time to act. This article explores what FTTC is, why it’s being phased out, and what your future broadband options look like—plus how to prepare and where to go for help.
What Is FTTC and Why Is It Being Phased Out?
FTTC uses fibre-optic cables to the street cabinet (those green boxes) and copper wires to your premises. It’s been a reliable solution for over a decade, but the copper infrastructure is ageing, costly to maintain, and no longer meets modern speed and reliability demands.
More than 75% of UK premises now have access to full fibre broadband, according to Ofcom Spring 2025 update, making FTTC increasingly obsolete. Openreach is rolling out full fibre alternatives that are faster, more energy efficient, and better suited to future demands.
When Will FTTC Be Switched Off?
The UK’s copper switch-off is scheduled for completion by December 2025. Openreach has already stopped selling new FTTC connections and is urging businesses to migrate to full fibre.
BT Openreach has confirmed its plans to retire copper services entirely by the end of 2025, as detailed in its network transition announcement.
What Are Your Alternatives to FTTC?
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
A full fibre connection offering the fastest and most reliable broadband available in the UK. It delivers speeds of 100–1000+ Mbps download and 20–115+ Mbps upload. Installation may require a BT Openreach engineer visit and new hardware, but it’s the most future-proof option.
SoGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access)
A data-only service that runs over the same copper/fibre mix as FTTC but doesn’t require a phone line. It offers similar speeds (40–80 Mbps download, 10–20 Mbps upload) and typically doesn’t require an engineer visit, making it a convenient interim solution.
What Happens to Your Phone Lines?
Traditional landlines linked to FTTC or ADSL will be discontinued. But you don’t have to lose your number or functionality.
VoIP (Voice over IP) Solutions
Make and receive calls over the internet using desk phones, mobile apps, or desktop software. VoIP adoption has increased by 30% year-over-year among UK SMEs, according to Ofcom’s telecoms market data
Microsoft Teams Phone
If your business uses Microsoft 365, Teams Phone integrates directly with your setup. It allows external calls via Teams using your business number, replacing legacy phone systems entirely.
FTTC vs FTTP vs SoGEA Comparison
| Feature | FTTC | SoGEA | FTTP |
| Connection Type | Fibre to cabinet, copper to premises | Same as FTTC, data-only | Fibre direct to premises |
| Download Speed | 40-80 Mbps | 40-80 Mbps | 100-1000+ Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 10-20 Mbps | 10-20 Mbps | 10-20 Mbps |
| Monthly Cost (estimate) | £25-£35 | £20-£30 | £30-£60 (varies by speed) |
| Hardware Required | Modem/router, phone line | Modem/router | Modem/router (fibre port) |
| Phone Line Required | Yes | No | No |
| Future Proofing | No | Yes (until fibre is available) | Yes |
What Should Your Business Do Now?
- Check what broadband services are available at your site
- Contact your ISP to confirm your current connection and upgrade options
- Plan your move to FTTP or SoGEA
- Make sure your network and devices are ready for the upgrade
- Switch your phone lines to VoIP
Need More Information?