Business Broadband: FTTP vs SOGEA Explained
As the old copper network is switched off, business broadband is moving to Full Fibre (FTTP) or SOGEA. Here’s the difference in plain English — and how to choose the right one for your business.
Full Fibre or SOGEA?
Both are modern, digital broadband — the right choice depends on what’s available at your address and the speed your business needs.
This guide explains each one, which suits you, and how to switch without losing your number or your connection.
What’s the difference between FTTP and SOGEA?
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises, or “Full Fibre”) runs fibre-optic cable all the way to your building — the fastest and most reliable option, with speeds often up to 1Gbps or more.
SOGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access) runs fibre to the street cabinet and then a short copper run to your premises — a modern digital broadband line, used where Full Fibre hasn’t arrived yet, with speeds commonly up to around 80Mbps. Importantly, it’s broadband without a separate phone line to rent.
Which one does my business need?
If Full Fibre is available at your exact address, it’s usually the best choice for speed and reliability. If it isn’t yet, SOGEA puts you on a modern digital line now — and you can move up to Full Fibre when it reaches you. We check what’s actually available at your postcode.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose my phone line or number?
No. Both options are digital — your phones run over the broadband (VoIP) and you keep your number. SOGEA removes the old copper phone-line rental, which is part of going digital for the 2027 switch-off.
How fast is SOGEA compared with Full Fibre?
Full Fibre is much faster (often up to 1Gbps+ and available symmetrically). SOGEA is commonly up to around 80Mbps — plenty for most small offices, cloud apps and video calls.
Is switching broadband disruptive?
No. We arrange the new line and test it before anything changes over, so there’s minimal downtime for your business.
FTTP vs SOGEA at a glance
- Speed: FTTP much faster; SOGEA fine for most small offices.
- Reliability: FTTP highest (no copper at all); SOGEA dependable.
- Availability: SOGEA wider today; FTTP expanding fast.
- Line rental: neither needs the old PSTN phone-line rental.
Before you switch: a quick checklist
- Check whether Full Fibre (FTTP) is available at your exact address.
- Know your current broadband type — ADSL/FTTC is old copper, due to be replaced.
- Work out the speed your business actually needs.
- Plan for your phones to move to digital (VoIP) over the new line.
- Consider a 4G/5G backup for business-critical connectivity.
- Make sure the new line is installed and tested before the old one is switched off.
- Keep your phone number — ported, not cancelled.
How Gelle Telecom gets you connected
- Full Fibre or SOGEA — we check what’s available and arrange it for you.
- Phones over broadband — VoIP, keep your number, one price per user.
- Tested before switch — new line working first, minimal downtime.
- Backup options — 4G/5G failover for business-critical sites.
Get the free guide — and a connectivity check
Download our free FTTP vs SOGEA guide, or book a no-obligation connectivity check and we’ll tell you exactly what’s available at your address.