Superfast Broadband (FTTC)

Superfast Broadband (also known as FTTC) uses fibre from the exchange to a roadside cabinet, then the existing copper phone line from the cabinet into your home.

How It Works

• Fibre runs to a roadside cabinet
• Copper line connects the cabinet to your home
• Your router connects via the main phone socket
• Delivered using SOGEA (broadband only, no phone service)
  

Why Choose Superfast?

• Widely available across the UK
• Ideal where Full Fibre is not yet available
• Faster and more stable than ADSL
• Suitable for browsing, streaming, video calls, and multiple devices
  

Speeds

• FTTC Lite: up to 40 Mbps down / 10 Mbps up
• FTTC Pro: up to 80 Mbps down / 20 Mbps up

Actual speeds depend on the distance from your home to the cabinet. 
Estimated speeds are shown in the Service Checker.

Equipment

You can use either:

• A router connected to an Openreach fibre modem, or
• A VDSL router connected directly to the main phone socket

A microfilter may be required depending on your socket type (supplied by Vfast).

Common Questions

Do I need a phone line?

You need the physical copper line, but not a phone service. DigiVoice can be added if needed.

Why can't I get full package speeds?

Speed reduces with longer copper line lengths. The Service Checker will display the estimates for your property.

Is FTTC good for gaming and streaming?

Yes. It supports HD streaming, video calls, and online gaming for most households.

Can I upgrade to Ultrafast later?

Yes. If Full Fibre becomes available, you can upgrade via the Service Checker (a new contract term applies).

Is installation disruptive?

Usually no. Most installs involve connecting your router to the main phone socket. An engineer may visit if upgrades are required.

Can I order Superfast if Ultrafast available?

Normally no. Where available, Full Fibre is prioritised as it is more reliable and future-proof.