No image Big Thumb In the world of broadband, understanding the difference between full fibre broadband and part fibre broadband can help you make a more informed choice when the time comes to upgrade or switch your service. In our guide below, we have highlighted what you need to know between both broadband options.
What Is Full Fibre?
Full fibre broadband, also known as Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), uses fibre cables from the local internet exchange, through the local cabinet and all the way to your home or business.
- Faster speed: Fibre broadband offers much faster speeds compared to traditional copper connections. It provides high-speed internet with greater bandwidth, enabling quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and more reliable connections for multiple devices.
- Greater reliability: Fibre is more resilient to weather and interference, so it stays stable and dependable.
- Future-proof technology: Unlike copper, full fibre is built for long-term needs. It’s capable of handling 21st century technology and, most importantly it will not be impacted by the impending PSTN switch-off. Learn about the PSTN switch-off.
- Reduce your carbon footprint: Full fibre uses less energy than copper connections, making it a more sustainable choice.
- Increased property value: A full fibre connection is increasingly viewed as essential, adding appeal to your home if you ever decide to sell.
What Is Part Fibre?
Part fibre broadband, also referred to as Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC), uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to a street cabinet, but the connection from the cabinet to your property relies on copper wires.
Key Limitations of Part Fibre:
- Slower Speeds: Copper wires slow down the connection, with maximum speeds often limited to around 80 Mbps.
- Less Reliable: Copper is more susceptible to interference, resulting in potential speed fluctuations and interruptions.
- Outdated Technology: While still widely used, part fibre networks are gradually being replaced by full fibre to meet modern connectivity demands.
PSTN Switch-Off Impact: Copper lines will be significantly affected by the upcoming Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off, as traditional landline services and copper-based broadband connections will no longer be supported. This means that homes and businesses relying on copper for their phone and internet services will need to upgrade to full fibre or alternative technologies to stay connected.
Comparison Table: Full Fibre vs Part Fibre
| Feature | Full Fibre (FTTP) | Part Fibre (FTTC) |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Fibre cables installed directly to your property | Fibre cables to your local cabinet, copper cables to your property |
| Maximum Speeds | Up to 1Gbps+ | Up to 80Mbps |
| Reliability | Highly reliable | Prone to speed drops and interference — especially at peak times |
| Futureproof | Yes | No |
Our Packages Explained
We are committed to ensuring everyone in the UK has access to a fast, reliable broadband connection they can rely on.
Depending on your location, you may find the following service available at your address:
FF-[SPEED]: These packages offer full fibre broadband services. Ensuring your home is future-proofed with the very latest in broadband technology. We will opt to offer full fibre packages where possible.
Why Choose Full Fibre?
- Effortless streaming: Enjoy TV and video in high definition without frustrating delays or buffering.
- Smooth connections: Full fibre makes video calls with family and friends clearer and more reliable, helping you stay connected no matter where they are.
- Ease with multiple devices: Whether it’s a phone, computer, smart home device or tablet, fibre broadband ensures they all work smoothly at the same time without any slowdown.
- Life online: Tasks such as booking appointments, organizing trips, researching local businesses, or online shopping become much easier with a stable and fast internet connection.
Is Full Fibre Available to my property?
Use our postcode checker to see if full fibre broadband is available at your address. If it’s not yet available, don’t worry - the UK’s full fibre network is expanding everyday, we can connect you to part fibre and then upgrade you when full fibre broadband becomes available. Check your postcode.
