Germany is taking a significant step toward upgrading its digital infrastructure as the Federal Network Agency has announced a nationwide plan to phase out traditional DSL internet in favor of fibre optic connections. While DSL has long been the standard in German households, it is now considered outdated technology, limited in speed and prone to disruptions. Fibre optic, by contrast, offers significantly faster and more stable internet — a key requirement in today’s increasingly digital world.

How and when the switch will happen

The transition will happen gradually in three stages. First, consumers will be encouraged to switch voluntarily as soon as fibre becomes available in their area. In the second phase, once 95 percent of a region is covered, network providers can propose a formal shutdown of DSL in that area. Households will be informed and given ample time to migrate. The final phase involves full disconnection of the copper-based DSL network, though not without a minimum one-year warning period for users.

Although a specific national shutdown date has yet to be announced, the European Commission has set 2030 as the target year for phasing out copper networks across the EU. In Germany, fewer than half of households currently have access to fibre, and the rollout will remain slow and regionally staggered. Authorities have assured consumers that no one will be left behind, and the shift will happen only where fibre coverage is sufficient.

What consumers need to know

For homeowners and landlords, fibre access is already becoming the standard in new developments. It is recommended to install fibre-ready infrastructure or at least prepare with basic conduits for future connections. Landlords may pass some installation costs onto tenants via service charges, while condo owners have a legal right to request fibre installation that cannot be easily blocked by other owners.

Consumers should remain cautious when approached with offers, especially through door-to-door sales, and should always take advantage of the 14-day cancellation window for contracts signed in person, online, or by phone. Choosing the right plan based on actual usage rather than the highest-speed option is also advised, as most providers allow upgrades later.