What does full-fibre broadband mean for you?

In your search for a reliable and future-ready internet connection, you've probably heard the term 'fibre broadband' mentioned. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) use the term 'fibre' loosely, even when their service doesn't use fibre optic cables throughout. Shockingly, Ofcom discovered that only 46% of customers who believed they had full-fibre broadband were actually in areas where it's available. 

 So, let's clear up the confusion and find out what full-fibre broadband means for you. 

 Full Fibre -- what's the big deal? 

Full fibre, also known as fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), is a type of broadband internet connection that uses high-speed fibre-optic cables to bring data directly from the central hub to your home. This improves upon the most common broadband connection, fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC/SoGEA*more information on this below), which use fibre optic cables to reach a cabinet on the street and then rely on older copper cables to reach your home. This, 'last mile' of copper is what slows down the connection and makes all the difference in terms of broadband speed. FTTC can also be prone to connection issues, but unless you have fibre cable running past your home, this may be your only option. 

 The confusion arises because Internet Service Providers (ISPs) sometimes label their services as 'fibre broadband,' even when they provide FTTC connections. This can leave consumers uncertain about what they're getting. 

 Full fibre, or FTTP, offers you faster and more reliable internet speeds. It reduces the chances of outages and can handle increased data demands, making it perfect for our modern, online lives. 

A Brief History of Fibre 

Fibre optic technology has a fascinating journey. It began in 1975 with the first non-experimental fibre optic link installed by Dorset Police. Over the years, fibre carried telephone traffic, video signals and data, and in 1996, a single-mode fibre transmitted one trillion bits per second. By 2008, fibre optic broadband offered a groundbreaking 50Mb/s, and in 2011, the first Gigabit (1000 Mb/s) service launched directly to UK homes.

Why Full Fibre Matters to You 

Full fibre is popular because it provides unbeatable speed and reliability, ensuring your internet connection won't slow you down. In today's world, where we rely heavily on the internet for work and play, having a dependable connection is essential. Video conferencing or streaming video? No problem! Due to the costs of installation and infrastructure, however, be prepared to pay a little bit more for that ultrafast connection. 

The Flexibility Factor 

You might wonder why you should consider full fibre if your current internet works fine. That's a valid question, and we understand that upgrading can seem daunting. That's why we work with you to understand your unique needs and goals. Vfast's full-fibre solution offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and improved online experiences for you and your family, not to mention the benefits for a work-from-home lifestyle. 

The Vfast Experience 

For 25 years, Vfast has helped people stay ahead in the world of internet technology. We have invested heavily in our own core network, and peer with the largest content providers in the world. Our award-winning, UK-based support team is available seven days a week, 365 days a year, earning 4.6 out of 5 reviews on Trustpilot. As the largest independent ISP in the UK, our custom-built full fibre service offers you the next generation of internet experience. We're dedicated to finding the best package for your needs, whilst ensuring your internet and telephone contracts add maximum value to your life. 

 Ready to explore the world of Vfast full fibre broadband and how it can enhance your online experience? Contact us today, and let's embark on a journey towards faster, more reliable internet, tailored just for you. Your online ambitions deserve the best experience possible.

 FTTC to SoGEA 

To add more confusion to this already complicated story, FTTC will soon change name and service capabilities to SoGEA.  

As part of the 2025 analogue switch off, all telephone lines that are being used to deliver fibre services are being discontinued, the copper will remain in place, however there will be no telephone number associated with the delivery of fibre services. As a result FTTC will become unavailable and a ‘stop sell’ regulation took affect on 5th September 2023. Replacing FTTC is a service called SoGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) which enables companies to order fibre broadband without a phone line, SoGEA only carries data, so organisations will require an accompanying VOIP or SIP based service as a telephony system. SoGEA has many benefits as the connection is faster, and more reliable than standard ADSL, PSTN, or ISDN line. 

 To discuss SoGEA in further detail or if you have any concerns regarding your current service, contact the Vfast team on 01227 668901.