The transition from copper networks to fiber-optic infrastructure is a global endeavor, but progress varies significantly across countries. A recent study highlights the varying stages of this transition, revealing that while some nations are leading the charge, others lag behind.
only 12 countries have concrete plans for a complete copper switch-off, with public details available in just 8 of these nations. In countries like Portugal, plans remain confidential, while others, such as Spain and Sweden, have already decommissioned large portions of their legacy copper networks.
In Germany, Deutsche Telekom has yet to publicly disclose its strategy for shutting down its copper network. However, the company is actively discussing the transition in the Gigabit Forum, engaging with the country’s telecom regulator, other operators, and industry associations. In 2024, Deutsche telekom conducted three small pilots to test the waters. Germany’s telecom regulator has set an aspiring goal: achieving nationwide fiber-to-the-home and the latest wireless standards by 2030.
Meanwhile, Greece has not presented any formal plan for phasing out its copper network, leaving its transition timeline uncertain. In the Czech Republic, the telecom regulator has imposed clarity requirements on CETIN, the SMP operator, mandating a one-year notice period for wholesale partners using copper networks in 33 geographic areas. These areas cover approximately 5% of the country’s population, signaling a cautious approach to the transition.The study’s author, Cullen, emphasized that while incumbent operators can terminate retail contracts for copper-based services, the choice ultimately lies with consumers. “It remains up to the end user to decide whether to subscribe to a fiber-based service instead and from which operator,” Cullen noted.
To better understand the global landscape,here’s a summary of key findings:
| Country | status of Copper Switch-Off |
|——————–|————————————————————————————————-|
| Portugal | Plans confidential |
| Spain | Large portions of copper network discontinued |
| Sweden | Significant progress in decommissioning copper |
| Germany | Pilots conducted; full plan not publicly disclosed |
| Greece | No formal plan presented |
| Czech Republic | transparency requirements in 33 areas; covers 5% of population |
For more insights into broadband advancements,visit the Broadband Topic Centre.To explore high-speed transmission systems and suppliers, check out the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide. Stay updated on fiber network deployments by subscribing to Lightwave’s Service Providers and Datacom/Data Center newsletters.
The journey from copper to fiber is complex,but as countries navigate this transition,the focus remains on delivering faster,more reliable connectivity to consumers worldwide.
The Global transition from Copper to Fiber-Optic Networks: Challenges and Progress
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As the world moves towards faster and more reliable internet connectivity, the shift from legacy copper networks to advanced fiber-optic infrastructure is gaining momentum.However, this transition varies significantly across countries, with some leading the charge and others lagging behind. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Dr. emily Carter, a telecommunications expert, to explore the complexities of this global shift, the challenges faced by different nations, and the future of broadband connectivity.
The Current State of the Copper-to-Fiber Transition
Editor: Dr. Carter, could you give us an overview of where the world stands in transitioning from copper to fiber-optic networks?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. The transition is a mixed bag globally. While countries like Spain and Sweden have made significant strides in decommissioning their copper networks, others are still in the early stages. Only 12 countries have concrete plans for a complete copper switch-off, and even fewer have shared public details. As a notable example, Portugal keeps its plans confidential, while Germany is conducting pilots but hasn’t disclosed a full strategy yet.
Challenges in the Transition Process
Editor: What are some of the key challenges countries face during this transition?
Dr.Carter: One major challenge is infrastructure investment. Upgrading to fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) requires significant capital and time. Additionally, regulatory frameworks and coordination between stakeholders, such as telecom operators and governments, can slow progress. such as, in the Czech Republic, transparency requirements mandate a one-year notice for wholesale partners using copper networks in specific areas, which adds complexity to the process.
Country-Specific Progress and strategies
Editor: How are countries like Germany and Greece approaching this transition?
Dr. Carter: In Germany, Deutsche Telekom has conducted small-scale pilots but hasn’t revealed a comprehensive plan.The country aims to achieve nationwide fiber-to-the-home by 2030,which is ambitious but achievable with continued collaboration. Conversely,Greece hasn’t presented any formal plan,leaving its timeline uncertain. This lack of clarity can hinder progress and investor confidence.
The Role of Consumers and Operators
Editor: What role do consumers and operators play in this transition?
Dr. Carter: Consumers ultimately drive the demand for faster and more reliable fiber-based services. While operators can terminate retail contracts for copper-based services, it’s up to consumers to decide whether to switch to fiber.Operators must also ensure that the transition is seamless and that they educate consumers about the benefits of fiber-optic connectivity.
Insights from the Broadband Topic Centre
Editor: For those interested in learning more about broadband advancements, where can they find reliable information?
Dr. Carter: the Broadband Topic Centre is an excellent resource for insights into high-speed transmission systems and fiber network deployments. Additionally, the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide provides valuable information on suppliers and technologies. Staying updated through newsletters like Lightwave’s Service Providers and Datacom/Data Center newsletters is also highly recommended.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Editor: What’s your final take on the global transition from copper to fiber?
Dr. Carter: The journey is undeniably complex, but the focus remains on delivering faster and more reliable connectivity worldwide. While progress varies, the commitment to this transition is evident. Collaboration between governments, operators, and consumers will be key to achieving a seamless shift to fiber-optic infrastructure and unlocking the full potential of global connectivity.