AddSecure: UK Copper Network Retirement to Accelerate
UK regulator Ofcom's plans to retire copper networks are accelerating the shift to new technologies, impacting alarm receiving centre services.
AddSecure has published an analysis of UK communications regulator Ofcom's proposal to retire copper-based telephone networks. Ofcom's plans are set to expedite the transition to fibre-based networks, with significant implications for alarm receiving centres (ARCs).
Ofcom's proposed three-stage process allows for the retirement of copper networks on an exchange-by-exchange basis, once fibre coverage reaches 100% of premises within an area. This aims to eliminate the costly operation of maintaining two parallel networks. The changes mean many properties, including those with alarm systems, will need to transition to digital connectivity sooner rather than later.
According to AddSecure, final decisions are expected in Autumn 2026, after which copper network retirement could begin. This necessitates clear migration pathway guidance for ARCs and their installer partners. Systems must maintain compliance (BS 8243 and PD 6662) regardless of the underlying network technology.
The company highlights that customer retention depends on proactive migration to new technologies. Furthermore, digital, IP-based alarm signalling offers enhanced security, such as encryption and authentication, and enables remote diagnostics and monitoring, which are challenging with legacy copper connections.
AddSecure views the copper network retirement as an opportunity to build more resilient, future-proof alarm systems. IP-based signalling with cellular backup provides the required resilience.