Euroroute Network Solutions
How to Seamlessly Migrate Customers from Copper to Fibre Networks
The UK’s broadband infrastructure is undergoing a significant transformation, with a strong focus on expanding full-fibre and gigabit-capable broadband. While the original PSTN switch-off deadline of December 2025 has been extended to 2026, the transition to digital voice services remains a priority. The government continues to invest in high-speed broadband through initiatives like Project Gigabit, which has allocated over £1 billion to connect hard-to-reach areas. As of late 2023, over 75% of UK premises had access to gigabit-capable broadband, with a goal of reaching 85% coverage by 2025. With ongoing regulatory support from Ofcom and industry collaboration, ISPs must prepare for the shift by ensuring seamless migration strategies and deploying fibre-ready solutions that support the UK’s evolving digital landscape.
Seamless Transition
While fibre offers superior speed, reliability, and efficiency, migrating customers requires careful planning to avoid service disruption. A seamless transition means selecting the right equipment, automating provisioning, and providing ongoing support. In this blog we outline the key steps ISPs can take to migrate their customers efficiently while enhancing customer satisfaction and future-proofing their services.
The Copper Switch-Off is Coming
The UK’s copper network is being phased out, with the full PSTN switch-off set for 2025. Customers still using copper-based broadband services will need to migrate to fibre or risk losing connectivity. ISPs must act now to ensure a smooth transition.
Customers Demand Faster, More Reliable Broadband
Fibre broadband delivers higher speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability. These are all critical factors for modern internet usage, including streaming, gaming, and remote work. ISPs that provide a seamless upgrade path can strengthen customer retention and satisfaction.
Long-Term Cost Savings for ISPs
Maintaining outdated copper infrastructure is costly and inefficient. Fibre networks offer lower maintenance costs, reduced fault rates, and fewer support requests, allowing ISPs to operate more efficiently.
Key Challenges in Migrating Customers to Fibre
– Customer Awareness & Education: Many customers are unaware of the PSTN switch-off or hesitant about the change.
– Installation Logistics: Coordinating fibre installation and ensuring minimal service disruption requires careful planning.
– Equipment Compatibility: Legacy routers and modems may not support fibre, necessitating CPE upgrades.
– Provisioning & Activation: Ensuring smooth onboarding and avoiding connectivity downtime is crucial for customer satisfaction.
To overcome these challenges, ISPs need a structured migration strategy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Seamless Migration
Step 1: Develop a Clear Migration Plan
Identify priority areas for migration based on network availability and customer demand.
Educate customers through proactive communication, explaining the benefits of fibre broadband.
Offer incentives such as free installation or temporary discounts to encourage early migration.
Step 2: Select the Right Fibre-Compatible CPE Devices
Choosing the right Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) ensures customers experience fibre’s full benefits.
Premium Option – AVM FRITZ!Box: Ideal for high-demand users who require advanced features like Wi-Fi 7 and robust security.
Cost-effective Option – Kontron Iskratel Innbox: Affordable yet high-performance solutions for large-scale fibre rollouts.
Both options offer Mesh Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi 6/7 support for seamless in-home connectivity, eliminating Wi-Fi dead zones.
Step 3: Streamline Deployments with No-Touch CPE Configuration
Euroroute’s no-touch deployment service ensures that devices arrive pre-configured and ready to use, eliminating the need for manual setup.
Cloud ACS (AVSystem) enables zero-touch provisioning, automating device activation and reducing setup time.
Firmware updates and remote configuration adjustments can be handled effortlessly, ensuring a hassle-free migration experience.
Step 4: Minimise Disruptions During the Switch
Schedule migrations in phases to avoid overwhelming support teams.
Provide clear self-installation guides to reduce the need for technician visits.
Use real-time monitoring tools to detect and address connectivity issues before they affect customers.
Step 5: Support Customers Post-Migration
Offer dedicated customer support to address any issues.
Monitor performance using Cloud ACS for proactive troubleshooting.
Gather feedback to refine the migration process and enhance future transitions.
The Business Case for a Seamless Migration Strategy
– Stronger Customer Loyalty: A hassle-free upgrade experience strengthens trust and reduces churn.
– Lower Support Costs: With reliable fibre service, ISPs see fewer technical issues and complaints.
– Future-Ready ISP Services: Moving customers to fibre now ensures ISPs are ready for upcoming technology shifts.
By investing in pre-configured CPE devices, no-touch deployment, and Cloud ACS solutions, ISPs can execute a seamless transition while keeping customers satisfied.
Euroroute Recommendation
The shift from copper to fibre is already well advanced and ISPs that plan ahead will reap the benefits. By following a structured migration process, selecting the right CPE, and leveraging automation, ISPs can ensure a smooth, cost-effective transition for their customers. Euroroute offers fibre-ready CPE solutions, expert no-touch deployment, and Cloud ACS-powered device management to make your migration seamless. Get in touch today to explore how we can support your transition.
The UK’s copper network is being phased out
Discover how pre-configured CPE, no-touch deployment, and Cloud ACS solutions can simplify migration to Fibre while enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing operational costs.