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The Copper Switch Off

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NO COPPER IS A GAME CHANGER

Copper-wire broadband is grand! But then so are fax machines.. and DVD players.. and pagers.. and even typewriters! That’s why modern life needs modern technology, and SIRO are fibre first.

The copper switch-off marks the end of the decades-old copper broadband network, with homes and businesses transitioning to full-fibre broadband as part of the process. It’s time to say goodbye to copper, for good! Comreg, has approved the commencement of the copper switch off process. Separately, the European Commission wants all copper broadband to be switched off across the EU by no later than 2030.

What does the copper switch off mean?

Copper Switch Off

Copper switch-off is the planned discontinuation of the traditional copper broadband network. Copper is being switched off because it simply can’t meet the demands, of more bandwidth, higher speeds and greater data needs, now placed upon it.

What’s the difference between Copper & Fibre?

Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) versus Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH). In an FTTC connection, copper is used for the last piece of the connection (from tens to hundreds of meters) connecting the telephone exchange cabinet on the street and the router in your house. All the speed-of-light goodness of fibre optics is lost during this last stretch, and that’s why FTTC delivers speeds of no more that 100Mbps.

It’s really good news!

The transition will mean that homes and businesses will move to a full fibre network which is faster, more reliable and future proofed for decades to come – full fibre broadband.

What do I need to do?

Am I on copper or fibre?

The quickest way is to contact your current broadband retail provider, or while not specifically for copper broadband, you can also perform a speed test to check your current download speed. If your speed is lower than expected it might indicate that you’re on copper broadband network.

Check if your devices need to be updated

Consider what devices you rely on which you can’t be without, burglar alarms, monitored personal alarms, CCTV etc. Give yourself plenty of time to switch.

How can I switch to fibre?

First step check your Eircode, choose a retailer of your choice, place your order and choose an appointment time that works for you. Some homes may require an installation survey.

SIRO playing its part

To increase awareness of full fibre broadband, this year we’ve launched a nationwide campaign, “Fibre First” along with calling for a multi-stakeholder taskforce to plan for Copper Switch Off.

We’re Fibre First

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Copper & Fibre Broadband?

Fibre to the Home (FTTH) is an access network method that delivers the highest possible speed of internet connection by using optical fibre that runs directly into the home, building or office. The SIRO network is built using the ESB’s overhead and underground infrastructure, ensuring a fast, reliable and sustainable network.

Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) versus Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH). In an FTTC connection, copper is used for the last piece of the connection (from tens to hundreds of meters) connecting the telephone exchange cabinet on the street and the router in your house. All the speed-of-light goodness of fibre optics is lost during this last stretch, and that’s why FTTC delivers speeds of no more that 100Mbps.

On the other hand, SIRO FTTH network connects 100% fibre optic cables all the way to your home, delivering speeds up to 2000Mbps (2Gb). Fibre is faster, more reliable, and superior to copper in many ways, as it removes all the bottlenecks commonly seen in a copper network. You can connect as many devices as you like, play HD games, watch Netflix and download movies without slowing down your connection.

Can I order SIRO without an Eircode?

Yes you can connect to the SIRO network without an Eircode, but unfortunately some of our Retailers do have system limitations with this. Please email your full address to info@siro.ie, and request your Premises ID. This number is unique to your property on our network. We will respond with your Premise ID, and a list of retailers for your area who will be able to accept an order, if you are unable to wait for your Eircode to be issued.

How much does SIRO cost?

As an open access wholesaler, SIRO is responsible for building the 100% fibre first network and makes it available to broadband providers to sell to the public/end user. Our retail providers offer a range of different products and speeds to homes and businesses at different price points. To find out which retailers are available in your area, please search your Eircode at our address checker.

How is SIRO installed?

When you purchase SIRO from a broadband provider, an engineer will visit your home at a time agreed by you to complete the fibre first installation. SIRO will be brought into your home either overhead or underground and into the ESB meter box. An external connector box which houses the SIRO fibre will be positioned close to the ESB meter box.

The engineer will agree with you where to install our internal connector box. Some minor drilling is involved and some cabling depending on where you would like your modem. The engineer will ensure and prove that your home is receiving the fibre first speed based on the package purchased.

For SME and Enterprise customers, an engineer will work with the business to determine the entry point. Where applicable the existing communications space will be utilised.

What is SIRO?

SIRO is a joint venture company between the ESB and Vodafone. We are building a 100% fibre-to-the-premise broadband network using the existing ESB infrastructure.  Launched in 2015, SIRO is Ireland’s first 100% Fibre First wholesale network and offer speeds of up to 2 Gigabit, the fastest speeds available on the market.