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Telephony and internet networks
Deploying fiber optics: where are we?
Publié le 26 janvier 2026 - Entreprendre Public Service / Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)
The phase-out of ADSL has been implemented since 31 January 2025. The historical copper network that the technology relies on, which provides the telephone, internet and television, is gradually disappearing in favor of fiber optics. Public Service provides an update on the timeline.
ADSL has been supplemented in recent years by the so-called network of optical fiber which provides access to a connection Very high speed. As the owner of the copper network, the Orange operator controls the network closure agenda. All premises still using services on the copper network are concerned, whether they are private individuals, companies or administrations.
Closure of the copper network is done gradually by lots of municipalities, in two deadlines: commercial closure and then technical closure at least 12 months later.
Orange has scheduled all lines to be closed at the end of 2030. The network will be “off”, this means that services using the copper network (phone if it is connected to a T socket, ADSL internet subscription) will stop working.
Reminder
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is an internet access technology that uses the high frequencies of the telephone line to transmit digital data at very high speeds. French terminology refers to “asymmetrical digital connection”.
Where are we at the end of January 2026?
- In 2025, 162 municipalities saw their copper networks shut down.
- At the end of January 2026, an additional 763 municipalities will be affected.
- As of January 31, 2026, 26,000 municipalities will stop the marketing of new copper offerings.
- For the other municipalities not yet meeting the necessary criteria, the commercial closure will take place in January 2027.
- 95% of the premises in France can now be connected to fiber.
FYI
One search module lets you know when the copper network will close in your area. Simply enter the postal code or the name of your municipality.
A closure supervised by Arcep
Arcep (French regulator for electronic communications, postal services and press distribution) is overseeing the closure plan. It ensures that this cannot take place that in the presence of a complete fiber optic network and offers adapted to the needs of users in each selected municipality.
If a municipality does not meet these criteria, its closure is postponed.
Am I eligible for fiber optics?
To check your eligibility for fiber optics, you can enter your address on the dedicated page from Arcep.
If you are eligible, you will be able to inquire about consumer subscriptions and contact the operator who has your preference in order to connect your home. If your current subscription is limited to the phone alone, you will be able to subscribe to the same type of offer once you switch to fiber optics; this is a commitment of the operators.
FYI
Aid has been put in place to finance the connection work that may sometimes be necessary on private property, for individuals and VSEs located in municipalities affected by the copper shutdown by January 2027. All information about this help is available on the website of the Payment and Services Agency.
Please note
To learn more about all the changes caused by the closure of the copper network, you can consult:
- the Frequently asked questions from Arcep ;
- the site www.treshautdebit.gouv.fr which offers thematic pages by public, individuals, companies, local representatives, administrations and local authorities;
- 2 practical guides of the Ministry of Economy for individuals and for the companies.
Additional topics
Ministry of Economy