The copper network is an older technology used to deliver Internet and fixed telephony via ADSL or VDSL. It is gradually being replaced by fiber in the areas concerned. Fiber will then be the technology available for fixed services at your address.
End of the copper network in Belgium
Scarlet will let you know before copper is switched off in your street.
Is the copper network being switched off in your street?
Take action before the date shown to avoid an interruption to your fixed services
The copper network, used for ADSL and some fixed services, is gradually being phased out in Belgium. When copper is switched off in your street, Fiber takes over with a more modern and stable connection. Scarlet will contact you when your address is affected and explain clearly what you need to do.
Have you received a message from Scarlet?
To keep using your internet, digital TV and landline, switch to Fiber before the date shown in the message. Without the switch, your fixed services will first be limited and then stopped.
Good news! Your fixed Scarlet products are now fiber-compatible, at the same price.
Switch to fiber now and avoid interruption. You have two options: Would you like Scarlet to call you? Complete the form below and we'll contact you as soon as possible. Prefer to call us yourself? Contact Scarlet on 02 275 27 27.
Haven’t received anything?
Then there’s nothing you need to do for now.The copper network is being phased out gradually, street by street. Scarlet will contact you when your street is next.
Got questions about copper switch-off?
Call Scarlet on 02 275 27 27 to find out when your address will be affected or if you have questions about the installation work in your home.
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The copper switch-off in three stages
Scarlet will let you know before each stage if your address is affected. You know what will change, when you need to act and how to avoid an interruption.
One year before the switch-off: some operations are no longer available
No more changes possible on copper at your address. No more new connections, moves or extra internet lines via copper. Only fiber remains available. But don’t worry: it costs exactly the same price.
Three weeks before the switch-off: your fixed services enter limited-service mode
If you have not yet switched to fibre, your internet, TV and fixed-line services will operate in limited-service mode for three weeks. In practical terms, this means slower internet, no digital TV and outgoing calls limited to emergency numbers and Scarlet customer service.
Do you have an alarm, personal assistance system or lift connected to your fixed line? It may no longer work correctly during this period.
You can still arrange your fibre installation during these three weeks. But it is better not to leave it until the last minute.
Your fixed services are permanently interrupted
After the minimum service period, the final copper switch-off takes place. If you have not switched to fiber by then, your fixed services will be interrupted. Your Scarlet mobile subscription will not be affected.
You will then no longer have access to:
- Internet at home;
- Digital TV;
- Your fixed line;
- Certain devices or systems connected to your fixed line.
Avoid having your Internet, TV and landline phone services turned off permanently
Request your switch to fiber today. A Scarlet agent will call you back to explain the next steps and schedule an appointment.
Would you rather call us directly? You can contact Scarlet at 02 275 27 27.
Everything you need to know before switching to fiber
What is the installation procedure?
Find out how to prepare your home, where the equipment can be placed, and what will happen during the visit.
What is fiber?
Learn how fiber works, what its advantages are, and how to check if it’s available for your address.
Are you looking for an Internet subscription?
Browse Scarlet's Internet subscriptions and check if they are available at your address.
Informations other languages
Find information about interruptions to your fixed-line services in your language.
- Interrupción permanente de sus servicios fijos de Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Spanish)
- Interrupção permanente dos seus serviços fixos Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Portuguese)
- Mónimi diakopí ton statherón sas ypiresión Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Greek)
- Interruzione permanente dei tuoi servizi fissi Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Italian)
- Постоянно прекъсване на вашите фиксирани услуги Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Bulgarian)
- Întreruperea permanentă a serviciilor dumneavoastră fixe Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Romanian)
- انقطاع دائم لخدمات Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Arabic) الثابتة
- Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Turkish) sabit hizmetlerinizin kalıcı olarak kesintiye uğraması
- Постоянное прекращение предоставления фиксированных услуг Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Russian)
- Trwała przerwa w świadczeniu usług stacjonarnych Scarlet(PDF, 1 MB, in Polish)
Questions about the phase-out of the copper network
Why is the copper network being switched off?
Is fiber absolutely necessary?
Yes, if the copper network has been switched off at your address and fiber is the technology provided for your Scarlet services. You will need to switch in order to continue using your fixed services. But it won't cost you a single cent more!
Your Scarlet mobile subscription will not be affected
How can I tell if my address is affected?
Scarlet will notify you by mail, email, or call you if your address is affected. Any questions? You can contact Scarlet at 02 275 27 27.
When will the copper network be switched off?
There is no single date that applies to all of Belgium. The network is being discontinued gradually, street by street and neighborhood by neighborhood. Scarlet will let you know the date scheduled for your address.
Can I keep my fixed line on the copper network?
No, not once the copper network has been permanently switched off at your address. Your fixed telephony service must then use the new connection.
Will I lose my fixed phone number?
Switching to fiber doesn't automatically mean your number will change. Scarlet will confirm the details regarding your plan when you schedule your appointment.
Will I pay more with fiber?
No. The rates for your Scarlet fixed services will stay the same as part of this migration. Add-ons, such as Fiber Boost for €10/month if you want faster speeds, are optional.
Is fiber installation free of charge?
The standard installation required to replace the copper connection is free.
Scarlet will let you know in advance if any special work or conditions apply for your housing situation.
How do I request fiber if I’m renting my home?
As a tenant, all you have to do is send a request to Scarlet. The landlord cannot object to the choice of operator, or to the installation of fiber requested by the tenant. Nevertheless, we would advise you to inform the owner of the property.
In co-owned premises, all the owners will normally have been notified of the arrival of fiber in the building already at their general meeting or by the management company or building manager.
Will my mobile subscription be canceled?
No. The copper switch-off applies only to fixed services at home, namely internet, digital TV and fixed-line telephony. Your mobile subscription will continue as usual.