Is my copper phone line being switched off in Liechtenstein, and what happens to my contract?
In 2020 the government said that with the switch-off of the copper-based cable networks and the move to fibre, every customer must actively choose which provider to use from then on (answer to a parliamentary question, 2020).
Many countries are replacing old copper phone lines with fibre. Where an official plan exists, it sets how much warning you get and what happens to your contract; the plan for Liechtenstein is below.
📜 The rules in Liechtenstein
The switch-off plan
In 2020 the government referred to switching off the copper-based cable networks in favour of fibre. Whether and when this was completed could not be confirmed from an official source opened for this research.
The details
- The fixed network is vertically separated: one fibre network is offered to all providers on non-discriminatory terms, and the government describes nationwide fibre coverage as already very high (Report and Motion BuA No. 122/2022). (bua.regierung.li)
- A provider with significant market power that wants to retire copper infrastructure must tell the AK in advance. The AK ensures a transparent timetable with adequate notice and checks for alternative products of at least comparable quality (VKND Art. 59). (gesetze.li)
Amt für Kommunikation (AK)
Liechtenstein's regulator for electronic communications. It supervises providers and acts as the official conciliation body for disputes between consumers and phone or internet providers.
🪜 Step by step
- Find out what your line isYour contract or provider can tell you whether you are on copper, cable or fibre.
- Watch for a letterCustomers on lines that will be switched off are normally told in advance. Keep the letter.
- Compare your optionsYou may be offered fibre or another connection. Compare price, term and speed before you accept.
- Check special equipmentAlarm systems, emergency call devices and old phones may need to be adapted. Ask before the switch.
📇 Who to contact
Sponsor this page → One labelled block, €100 a month. Founding price €75 until 31 January 2027.
❓ Questions
Do I have to move to fibre?
When the copper line is switched off, you need another connection to keep your service. Which options you have depends on your address.
Does the switch cost me anything?
That depends on the plan and on the offers you get. Ask for any offer in writing.
Will my landline number still work?
Usually yes: you can normally keep your number on the new connection. Ask your provider.
📎 Sources
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