The UK is getting closer to a faster, more reliable internet system by bidding adieu to old copper landlines and embracing Full Fibre broadband. It has been changing the country, and now another 79 follow suit by saying goodbye to the landlines. The places that will henceforth ditch the landlines are now marked, and if you happen to stay in one of them, be ready to give up on old landlines and embrace fibre-optic systems that promise an internet experience faster and smoother. But what does it mean for you? Let’s dive right in and see how this will affect homes across the UK.

What’s Going On?
Openreach, the company managing the UK’s phone and broadband network, is leading the way in moving the old copper landlines to Full Fibre. They have published a “Stop Sell” order that means broadband providers such as BT, Sky, and TalkTalk cannot sell any copper connections in 79 more locations. These areas will be switched on to new fiber technology in the course of next year. Wonder why this might matter? Well, full fibre is faster and more reliable, so better internet for all.

It is not overnight. It is an extremely long-term process that has already, with the passage of time, shifted the status of many areas that have strived to move out from copper lines. With this update today, many more places will be part of the digital revolution. This is because the current UK plan for a modern and connected nation.

Why full fibre is better?
Perhaps you have been wondering what makes the UK all anxious to leave copper behind. The truth is that copper lines are really old and hence much slower in comparison to the newer fibreoptic. A Full Fibre connection will allow many individuals to transfer internet files loads faster, guaranteeing more seamless streaming, work-from-home and online gaming. Another benefit of a fibreoptics cable is its reliability- hence there is less chance that internet will cut out during a critical moment.

This move to Full Fibre will also read the UK for the future technologies that will need fast internet. With connected devices growing – think smart home gadgets – a robust connection will become increasingly important.

Do I Lose My Landline?
One of the biggest fears people, particularly older residents, have is that they are going to lose their landlines. In many houses, the first phone for daily use is a landline, especially for those who do not own a mobile or do not have internet at home. Don’t worry! Although traditional landlines as we know them will disappear, it’s possible to make telephone calls-they will just do it with internet.

This new generation of technology called Digital Voice will need broadband to initiate your calls. Therefore, if you are still on a landline, you will need to be connected to the internet line. And if you do not have internet at home, then you will not be affected until fibre starts being brought into your neighborhood.

Concerns Regarding the Change
While many people welcome faster internet, a few of them worry about what happens when the internet does down. If your phone works with the internet and the connection drops, you may be unable to make a call. Those who only rely on the landline may find this rather unsettling. BT has been doing its best to alleviate such fears, assuring everyone that by 2027, most households in the UK will have switched over to Digital Voice largely without problems.

Another issue is the lack of elderly people as internet users. They may be alienated or puzzled about the new system. To ease this situation, BT and other organizations offer services and guidance for change.

Who will it affect?
The total of 79 locations spread across the UK will receive copper-free fixed broadband. Many towns, cities, and villages will miss out on using copper landlines. Some cities, such as Sheffield, Liverpool, Swansea, or Barrow-in-Furness will be included while many others won’t. If you are one of them, you may want to take preparation measures for the Full Fibre switch.

But, if, at the moment, your home cannot get Full Fibre, don’t worry. Most operators will still allow you to continue having an old copper connection if fibre isn’t yet available in your area. It can be continued until the new system is rolled out.

What Can You Do?
First, check if your area is being upgraded to Full Fibre or not. You can do that on the internet. Openreach has a postcode checker to see if your area will be ready for the upgrade. Once you’re affected by this change, now may actually be a good time to consider your options for getting a fibre connection if you want faster internet.

As a taster for the future, for those who would like to continue relying on a landline, it’s worth knowing you’ll need broadband to make calls in future. If you do have concerns about how this will work, contact your broadband provider for further information.