What is a copper switch-off, and why does it matter?

Across the globe, fibre networks continue to lead the way when it comes to reliable, future-proof connectivity. For broadband providers especially, full fibre remains the standout Unique Selling Proposition (USP) thanks to its unmatched speed and consistent performance.

As noted in the Draghi Report in September 2025, future‑proof digital infrastructure is a critical pillar of Europe’s competitiveness. Within this context, fibre stands out as the high‑capacity fixed infrastructure capable of delivering the long‑term performance required to meet these ambitions.

Within the United Kingdom, 31 million homes have now been passed by full fibre as of the end of 2025, representing a significant increase of 19% compared to the previous year. Both the UK Government and major broadband incumbents have set their own ambitious targets for full-fibre coverage by the end of the decade – ambitious because one significant barrier still remains: legacy copper networks.

What is the difference between copper and fibre networks?

Fibre internet uses light signals over glass strands to deliver higher bandwidth and faster speeds over longer distances. While traditional copper is cheaper than fibre for networks, it is significantly slower and more susceptible to interference.

Homes still connected to these legacy copper networks across Europe are relying on ageing, telephone-based infrastructure, resulting in limited broadband speeds and capacity to high bandwidth digital services. While these aged lines remain operational, upgrades to fibre are often delayed since many operators will not invest in fibre-to-the-home (FTTH). This is due to the protection of their existing investments in the infrastructure.

However, the hand of some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may soon be forced, especially as European governments incentivise fibre infrastructure investments for network providers. Known as the ‘Copper Switch-Off’, this initiative marks the beginning of a broader transition toward full-fibre networks across Europe.

What is a copper switch-off?

Simply put, a copper switch-off is the retirement of legacy copper networks to make way for fibre broadband – a move considered essential for supporting modern digital connectivity.

For the UK’s broadband incumbent, Openreach, this means phasing out the over-hundred-year-old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to make way for full-fibre networks. Originally marked for 2025, the traditional analogue network will be retired by 31 January 2027 to allow for more preparation time.

For the other so-called ‘EU big four’, targets vary. In France, lead operator Orange plans a gradual staged shutdown for 2030 completion, while Italy is undergoing a massive regulator-approved plan to replace its copper network with fibre by 2028. Germany published its plans in January of this year, with a regulator-led framework proposing that copper networks can begin to be switched off once fibre coverage reaches around 80% of households.

However, many nations across the continent are yet to make their decommissioning plan public despite these efforts. This begs the question – which countries lead the way when it comes to copper switch-off?

What European countries have achieved full copper switch-off?

Perhaps surprisingly, Norway and Spain are the only two European countries to have achieved full copper switch-off, with Sweden, Malta, and Portugal all closely approaching 100% of their active lines on FTTH. Cyprus and Bulgaria are also nearing full copper switch-off, with both nations currently sitting at around 90% completion.

At the other end of the scale, the Czech Republic and Germany still heavily rely on copper infrastructure, with the former having just 9% of its active network lines based on fibre. Interestingly, Belgium was the only country to decrease their active fibre lines, down 13% from last year.

These statistics are readily available thanks to the FTTH Council Europe’s Copper Switch-Off Tracker - a comprehensive study analysing the progress of deactivating copper networks across 27 EU member states, the UK, Norway, and Switzerland. The organisation views copper switch-off as a critical driver for investment, infrastructure, and achieving digital competitive goals.  

Crossing the finish line

The Copper Switch-Off will, as ever, prove a critical pillar of conversation at the FTTH Conference 2026. With the Europe’s premier fibre event now right around the corner, European incumbent laggards will no doubt look to Norway and Spain as pioneers when it comes to shifting from legacy copper networks. Proactive PR will be on site, and is excited to hear more about the coming developments.

In essence, copper switch-off marks the passing of the torch for the foundation of connectivity across Europe. Copper has been a trusty workhorse for over 150 years, but even the most loyal of servants must make way for their more efficient successors, ushering in a new standard for connectivity across Europe.