End of the Copper Network: The Guide

The Planned End of the Copper Network

The copper telephone network, which has connected French people for over a century, is living its final years. Orange, owner of this historical network, has announced its gradual closure between 2023 and 2030. For more on telecommunications in France, explore our complete guides.

Why Close the Copper Network?

Copper ages and is expensive to maintain. The technologies it supports (RTC landline, ADSL) are now surpassed by fiber optics. Maintaining two parallel networks no longer makes economic or technical sense.

The Closure Schedule

Closure is happening by geographical zones. Orange publishes affected municipalities with 3 years' notice for new subscriptions and 1 year for existing customers. By 2030, the entire territory should have switched over.

Consequences for Subscribers

End of ADSL

If you're still on ADSL, you'll need to migrate to another technology. Fiber optics (FTTH) is the preferred solution. In non-fiber areas, alternatives exist (fixed 4G/5G, satellite, local radio loop).

End of RTC Telephone

"Analog" landline (the T socket) is disappearing. You can keep a landline but it will work through the internet box (VoIP) or via an adapter.

Equipment to Adapt

Some equipment connected to the telephone line will need to be adapted or replaced: medical telecare, alarm systems, payment terminals, connected elevators...

Preparing for the Transition

Check Fiber Eligibility

The first step is checking if your address is eligible for fiber. Use Arcep or provider tools. If fiber is available, it's the simplest and most efficient solution.

If Fiber Isn't Available Yet

Inquire about the deployment schedule with your city hall or infrastructure operator. Meanwhile, keep your ADSL as long as possible.

Alternatives to Fiber

In white zones or while waiting for fiber, solutions exist: fixed 4G or 5G (box using mobile network), satellite internet (Starlink, Nordnet), local radio loop (THD Radio).

What Concretely Changes

For Landline

Your landline number is kept. The phone will go through internet (VoIP). Quality is generally equivalent or better. In case of internet outage, the landline won't work unless you have a backup solution.

For Internet

Moving from ADSL to fiber significantly improves performance: speeds multiplied by 10 to 100, reduced latency, more stable connection. It's a significant gain for all uses.

For Special Services

Telecare, alarms, elevators: contact your providers to anticipate adaptation. Replacement solutions exist but sometimes require work or equipment changes.

Conclusion

Copper network closure is inevitable and represents a major modernization of French telecommunications. For the vast majority of French people, the transition to fiber will be progress. Anticipate the steps and inquire about the schedule applicable to your municipality.

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes. The closure schedule evolves. Consult Orange and Arcep websites for official information.