There seems to be a bit of confusion regarding Openreach’s announcement that they’re retiring all traditional copper networks by 2025. Naturally, a hundred different questions have floated around since the announcement and we’re here to answer them all. So, welcome to Datasharp’s Openreach FAQ:
What exactly is the copper withdrawal?
The Openreach network is going through a major upgrade. Copper has been left behind as Fibre continually increases in reliability and speed. Openreach plans to move forward with digital technologies and as they do so, copper will become limiting, more expensive and difficult to maintain. On paper, this may seem like a headache. It means checking what this changeover will affect, researching your options and probably pulling your hair out from information overload. It doesn’t have to be this way.
The copper withdrawal is actually an opportunity in disguise as it means your business can have a technology refresh and take advantage of all the latest features Fibre can bring. If you’re still worried about digesting all this new information, don’t worry. Our team does this every day and endures the headache so you don’t have to.
When is this all happening?
Unfortunately, this answer is a little complicated. So there are two different stages with Openreach’s plan. The first is the end of sale date which is when you will no longer be able to purchase additional copper-based services. This date varies from location to location and has already begun. Nationally, it will be completed by September 2023.
The second is the cut-off date which is when copper services will be retired and all phone and internet services that rely on those lines will cease to function. On December 2025 Openreach will “flip the switch” and shut off all copper-based services.
Which of my services are affected?
This is probably your most important and pressing question so let’s keep it simple. These lines will be switched off December 2025:
- PSTN/Analogue Line
- ISDN2
- ISDN30
As a result, the following internet connections will be affected:
- ADSL
- FTTC
- EoFTTC
- EFM
Now, if you see your business connection, there’s no need to panic. You still have time before the cut-off date and our expert team is ready to listen to your business needs and help you pick the right solution. If you have any questions or want to look over your replacement options then click here and chat with a member of our team.
