From today, broadband providers will no longer be able to use the term ‘fibre’ on its own. Instead they will need to be clear about whether the network they use is full-fibre, part-fibre, copper, or cable.
Up until now the term ‘fibre’ has been applied inconsistently by the telecoms industry, according to Ofcom, adding that it is often used to describe different types of networks, leading to confusion among customers.
Full-fibre networks involve fibre going all the way from the telephone exchange to a customer’s home – these provide the fastest broadband connections.
‘Part-fibre’ (or a similar term) should now be used to describe those services with a fibre-optic connection from the local exchange to the street cabinet, and then usually a copper wire connecting the street cabinet to the customer’s home
Ofcom said this information must be given to consumers before they agree to purchase a broadband service, regardless of whether they sign up in person, over the phone or online.
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Providers also need to give a more thorough explanation of the underlying broadband technology – for example through a link – so that consumers can understand in more detail what it means for them. This information must be provided in an accessible form that is easy to understand.
