Copper Switch Off
Copper Switch Off, or Fibre Switch Over, is the systematic decommissioning of the old copper networks. It’s a progressive step to ensure that all premises can access a modern and future proofed fibre broadband infrastructure.
The good news is that if you are in the NBP rollout area, you can access fibre to get a modern broadband connection.
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FAQ’s
Why is Copper Switch Off happening?
The legacy copper networks will be decommissioned because they can’t meet the demands of consumers, with all predictions suggesting even a greater desire for more bandwidth, and even more connectivity in the coming years
What’s the difference between Copper & Fibre?
Copper is decades old technology, which firstly carried voice traffic and latterly broadband.
Fibre (fibre optics) uses cables to transmit light waves which carry broadband signals – literally at the speed of light! That’s why fibre broadband can comfortably deliver download speeds of 500Mb, 1 Gb and 2 Gb and soon even up to 5 Gb (many multiples of what copper is capable of).
How can I switch to fibre?
It’s easy!
First step, please check your Eircode above to determine if you are in the National Broadband Plan rollout area. If you are, pick a broadband provider [link to the Who can I buy from? – NBI of your choice and place your order with them for connectivity to the NBI network which is 100% fibre.
Is switching to fibre going to increase my monthly bill?
No, switching to fibre shouldn’t cost you more, and you’ll gain all the benefits of a modern, high-speed internet service.
What you mightn’t know is that NBI doesn’t sell directly to consumers, rather we sell to over 50 different broadband providers who offer broadband, voice, TV and other services over our network – that means you have the benefit of a range, quality and competitiveness of service on fibre. We always recommend consumers shop around to unlock value – especially if you are bundling services together!
For an independent viewpoint, check out this article from the Adrian Weckler Ask Adrian: Is it worth getting fibre broadband and how big would the bill be? | Irish Independent].
When is Copper Switch Off happening?
That is still to be confirmed but what we do know is that the European Commission has proposed 2030 as the latest date for the decommissioning of the legacy copper networks – so the process will happen systematically between now and then. This means that some areas are likely to transition in the coming years. Our advice is to switch to fibre sooner than later.
Where can I find out more information?
If you want more information, check out this useful guide – Preparing for Copper Broadband Switching Off [ Preparing for Copper Broadband Switching Off – NBI] or this RTE News article from 2023 [ Framework to allow Eir to switch-off its copper network].
How does fibre broadband work?
NBI fibre broadband uses a network of fibre optic cables to deliver high-speed data over long distances, the length and breadth of Ireland. This data travels down the cables at the speed of light, right into your home or business.
Unlike standard broadband, which relies on older copper based network technologies, the NBI fibre broadband network consists of a full fibre solution that supplies right to your door.
Addressing Your Fibre Broadband Cost Concerns
With the world becoming more digitally connected every day, the demand for faster, more reliable internet has never been higher. Here in Ireland, the National Broadband Plan (NBP) …
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Benefits of fibre
The big difference is a full, future-proof, fibreoptic network with 500Mb—2Bb speeds connecting homes, hospitals, schools, businesses, and communities.
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