Fiber optic instead of DSL: This is how households successfully switch to the new technology!

Fiber optic instead of DSL: This is how households successfully switch to the new technology!

The transition from copper to fiber optic networks has begun in Germany to meet increasing demands for internet speed and stability. While many households still use DSL, which is based on outdated copper lines, the Federal Network Agency is promoting the switch to fiber optic, a significantly faster and more stable technology. Loud engineer The changeover is organized in three clear phases: First, a voluntary changeover by customers is sought, followed by comprehensive changeover planning and finally the decommissioning of the copper network.

DSL reaches technical limits, especially in rural areas. However, many consumers are hesitant to switch their existing connection to fiber optic. A Deloitte study shows that 39% of respondents are unwilling to switch providers despite having fiber. This is often related to communication problems between providers and consumers, especially when it comes to questions about prices and stability.

The path to fiber optics

The expansion of the fiber optic infrastructure in Germany is ambitious. By the end of 2024, 47% of households should have fiber optic connections up to the property line, although only 19% currently have an active connection. The federal government plans to supply half of all households with fiber optics by the end of 2025 and to achieve nationwide availability by 2030. The expansion is taking place in both urban and rural regions, with new development areas being equipped with fiber optics as standard.

The Federal Network Agency has published an impulse paper that describes the regulated migration from copper to fiber optic networks. The aim is to create transparency about the procedures for switching off the copper network. Market participants have until June 23, 2025 to comment on the material aspects of the procedure. In the long term, the Federal Network Agency expects increasing demand for pure fiber optic networks, while the continued operation of copper networks is viewed as unprofitable.

Advantages of fiber optic technology

Fiber optic offers many advantages that not only benefit private households. Higher transmission speeds and loss-free data transmission are crucial for the competitiveness of the German economy, education and digital infrastructure. In addition, property owners benefit from an increase in value through fiber optic expansion. This technology is also central to the development of future applications, including Industry 4.0.

In summary, it can be said that the switch from copper to fiber optic is not only a technical advance, but also an important measure to strengthen the digital infrastructure in Germany. In order to make this transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved, both providers and consumers must work closely together. This is done, among other things, as part of pilot projects of the Gigabit Forum, which is moderated by the Federal Network Agency.