If you’re considering making the switch to fibre broadband, you may be wondering what exactly the difference is. Fibre broadband uses a network of fibre optic cables to deliver high-speed data over greater distances. The data travels down the cables literally at the speed of light. This means you’re more likely to get faster download speeds and a more reliable connection to the internet.
So what are the benefits of making the switch to fibre broadband? Read on to find out.
What happens when you change to fibre broadband?
One of the key benefits of fibre broadband is that it uses a network of fibre optic cables to deliver high-speed data over greater distances. The data travels down the cables literally at the speed of light. This means you’re more likely to get faster download speeds and a more reliable connection to the internet.
Fibre broadband is also less susceptible to interference than other types of broadband, which means you should get a more consistent service.
If you’re thinking of upgrading to fibre broadband, there are a few things you need to check before you make the switch. First, check with your current broadband provider to see if they offer fibre broadband in your area.
If they don’t, you’ll need to find a new broadband provider that offers fibre broadband. You can check which providers offer fibre broadband in your area on the Ofcom website.
Once you’ve found a provider that offers fibre broadband, you’ll need to check what speeds are available in your area. Fibre broadband speeds can vary depending on where you live.
To check fibre broadband speeds in your area, you can use the Ofcom broadband checker.
Once you’ve found a provider and checked the speeds available in your area, you’ll need to decide which package is right for you.
Most providers offer different speed tiers, so you’ll need to decide how fast you need your broadband to be. The speeds you’ll see advertised are usually the ‘up to’ speeds, which means that’s the maximum speed you’ll be able to get.
However, your actual speeds will be affected by a number of factors, including how far you live from your nearest fibre cabinet, the time of day, and how many people are using your broadband connection at the same time.
If you’re not sure which speed tier is right for you, most providers offer a free broadband speed test that you can use to check your current speeds.
Once you’ve decided which package is right for you, you’ll need to check the terms and conditions.
Most broadband providers have a minimum contract term of 12 or 18 months, so you’ll need to be sure you’re happy with the package before you sign up.
You should also check to see if there are any installation fees or equipment charges.
Once you’ve found a provider and a package that you’re happy with, you can go ahead and switch to fibre broadband.
The process of switching to fibre broadband is usually very straightforward. Your new provider will organise everything for you and will usually provide you with a new router.
In most cases, you’ll be able to keep your old phone number and you shouldn’t experience any interruption to your broadband service.
The switch to fibre broadband should be completed within a few weeks. Once the switch is complete, you should start to see an improvement in your broadband speeds and a more reliable connection.
Do i need a phone line for fibre broadband?
If you’re considering switching to fibre broadband, you might be wondering whether you need a phone line for the service. The short answer is that fibre broadband doesn’t technically need a phone line, as it uses a different type of cable from traditional copper broadband. However, in practice, most fibre broadband connections will require a phone line as the connection from the local cabinet to your home is likely to be on a copper line.
Fibre broadband uses a fibre optic cable, which is made from thin strands of glass or plastic. This type of cable is capable of transmitting data at much higher speeds than a copper cable, which is why fibre broadband is generally faster than traditional broadband.
However, the fibre optic cable doesn’t extend all the way to people’s homes. Instead, it stops at a cabinet, with the connection to people’s homes being made over a copper line. This is why most fibre broadband packages will include a line rental service.
If you’re switching to fibre broadband, you should check with your provider to see if you need a phone line. In most cases, you will, but there are a few exceptions. For example, Virgin Media’s fibre broadband packages don’t require a phone line as the company uses its own network of fibre cables.
If you do need a phone line for your fibre broadband, you’ll generally be able to keep your existing phone number. However, you may be charged a fee for this by your broadband provider.
In summary, while fibre broadband doesn’t technically need a phone line, most connections will require one in practice. If you’re switching to fibre broadband, you should check with your provider to see if you need a line rental service.
Do you need an engineer to install fibre broadband?
You’ll choose your installation day when ordering FTTP. The router, and the TV box if you’re getting one, will be delivered before your installation. You might notice engineers working near your home before the engineer visit. They will be getting the network ready to connect you and there is nothing you need to do.
The engineer visit usually takes around two hours. The engineer will need access to your broadband equipment cupboard, and will need to connect the fibre cable to the network box inside your property.
You don’t need to be in when the engineer visits, but if you are, they’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. Once the engineer has finished, they’ll test your connection to make sure everything is working as it should be.
If you have any problems with your connection after the engineer has left, our support teams are on hand 24/7 to help.
Should i get rid of my landline 2022 uk?
As of December 2025, all landlines in the UK will be switched over to a new technology. This means that if you have a landline, you’ll need to get rid of it and switch to a new system.
There are several reasons why you might want to do this. Firstly, the old technology will no longer work, so you’ll need to get a new landline anyway. Secondly, the new system is more reliable and efficient, so you’ll be able to make calls more easily. Thirdly, it’s cheaper to run, so you’ll save money in the long run.
There are a few things to consider before you make the switch. Firstly, you’ll need to choose a new provider. There are several to choose from, so make sure you compare prices and features before you make your decision. Secondly, you’ll need to install the new system. This is usually straightforward, but it’s worth getting some professional help if you’re not sure what you’re doing. Finally, you’ll need to decide whether you want a VoIP landline or a traditional landline. VoIP landlines are cheaper and more flexible, but they can be less reliable.
Once you’ve made the switch, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of the new system. You’ll be able to make calls more easily, you’ll save money, and you’ll be able to keep your landline for as long as you need it.
Can i use my old phone with fibre broadband?
If you want to use fibre broadband in your home, you’ll need to make sure you have a compatible router. You can use your existing handset with fibre broadband, but you’ll need to purchase a phone adapter (as shown below) that plugs into your router and then to your existing handset. If you don’t already use a handset, you’ll need to purchase one.
Most broadband providers will offer a router as part of their broadband package. However, if you want to use your own router, you’ll need to make sure it’s compatible with fibre broadband. To find out if your router is compatible, you can check the manufacturer’s website or contact your broadband provider.
Once you have a compatible router, you’ll need to connect it to your fibre broadband connection. To do this, you’ll need to connect the router to your fibre broadband modem. Most routers will have a specific port for this (usually labelled WAN or Internet). Once you’ve connected your router to your modem, you’ll need to power on both devices and wait for them to connect to the internet.
Once your router is connected to the internet, you’ll be able to connect your existing handset to the router and start using your home phone service.
Can i use my old phone with fibre?
When you upgrade to a fibre optic broadband connection, you may be wondering if you can keep using your old phone. The answer is yes, but you will need to use a device known as an analogue terminal adapter (ATA).
If you have just one phone, you can unplug it from your existing phone socket and plug it into the ATA using the supplied connector. If you have more than one phone, you will need to connect the ATA to your phone line using a standard RJ11 cable.
Once you have connected the ATA, you will need to configure it to work with your fibre connection. This is usually done via a web interface, and you will need to enter your broadband login details. Once the ATA is configured, you will be able to use your phone as normal.
If you have a VoIP service, you may also be able to use your old phone with your new fibre connection. To do this, you will need to connect your VoIP adapter to your ATA, and then configure your VoIP service to work with your new broadband connection.
Is fiber better than wifi?
Fiber optic internet is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers many benefits over traditional WIFI. One of the most noticeable differences is speed; fiber optic internet is able to provide much higher speeds than WIFI, making it ideal for activities such as streaming and gaming.
Another advantage of fiber optic internet is that it is less affected by interference than WIFI. This is because fiber optic cables use light to transmit data, rather than radio waves. This means that fiber optic internet is less likely to be interrupted by things like bad weather or power lines.
Finally, fiber optic internet is also more reliable than WIFI. This is because fiber optic cables are not as susceptible to damage as WIFI signals. This means that fiber optic internet is less likely to be interrupted by things like power outages or bad weather.
Overall, fiber optic internet is a superior option to WIFI, offering higher speeds, less interference, and more reliability. If you are looking for the best internet option for your home or business, fiber optic is the way to go.
To summarise, there are many benefits of making the switch to fibre broadband. Fibre broadband can offer faster download speeds and a more reliable connection to the internet. It is also less likely to be affected by bad weather and can be installed in most homes. If you are considering making the switch to fibre broadband, we recommend doing some research to see if it is available in your area.