End of the Copper Network: The Guide

The copper telephone network in France is being progressively shut down by Orange between 2023 and 2030, with most households needing to migrate to fiber (FTTH), fixed 4G/5G, or alternative technologies before their local closure date. This guide explains the 2026 schedule, what to expect, and how to prepare.

> **Key takeaways**

> - Orange is closing the copper network in phases between 2023 and 2030 under ARCEP supervision.

> - Fiber (FTTH) is the recommended replacement, with fixed 4G/5G and satellite as alternatives in non-fiber areas.

> - Subscribers get 3 years' notice before closure for new lines and 1 year for existing customers.

> - Some equipment (medical telecare, alarms, elevators) must be adapted to IP technology.

> - Your landline number can be kept and migrated to VoIP.

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 under ARCEP supervision. 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.

Official Sources

ARCEP - Copper to Fiber Transition - Telecommunications regulator
Service-Public.fr - Telephone and Internet - Official guidance for consumers
Mediateur des communications electroniques - Dispute resolution for telecom users

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the copper network be fully shut down in France?

Orange has announced full closure by 2030, with phased shutdowns starting in 2023. Affected municipalities receive 3 years' notice before commercial closure and 1 year before technical shutdown.

What happens to my landline when copper is shut down?

You can keep your existing landline number. Your phone will operate via VoIP (voice over IP) through your internet box. Quality is generally equivalent or better than analog.

What if my address is not yet covered by fiber?

Alternatives include fixed 4G or 5G (a box using the mobile network), satellite internet (Starlink, Nordnet), or local radio loop (THD Radio). Check ARCEP's coverage maps for available options.

Will I lose access to internet during the transition?

No. The new service is activated before the old line is cut. ARCEP requires operators to ensure service continuity for vulnerable customers.

Do I need to replace my telecare or alarm equipment?

Yes, possibly. Equipment connected to the analog telephone line (medical telecare, alarm systems, elevators) may need adaptation. Contact your provider before the local closure date.

Is the transition to fiber free of charge?

Standard fiber installation in eligible buildings is generally free. For individual houses requiring civil engineering work, additional fees may apply depending on the operator.

This article is informational and may be subject to regulatory updates. The copper closure schedule evolves. Consult Orange and ARCEP websites for official information.