Is my copper phone line being switched off in France, and what happens to my contract?
The old copper telephone network (ADSL, and phones plugged into the T-shaped wall socket) is being closed area by area. Under the network owner's plan, all lines should be technically shut down by the end of 2030; Arcep sets the conditions.
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 France is below.
📜 The rules in France
The switch-off plan
Commercial closure (no new copper subscriptions): most lines in January 2026, the rest postponed to January 2027. Technical closure: gradual, with all lines shut down by the end of 2030 according to the network owner's plan.
The details
- If you have not moved to another technology when your area is shut down, your phone, internet and TV over copper will stop working. (arcep.fr)
- You are free to choose your operator and technology (fibre, cable, 4G/5G box, satellite). Take time to compare before accepting an offer to migrate. (arcep.fr)
- You can keep a landline phone, connected through a box or other equipment. It will not work during a power cut; battery-powered equipment can be used for alarms or medical devices. (arcep.fr)
- Works needed on your private land to bring fibre to your home are at your expense; you can choose who does them. (arcep.fr)
Ma connexion internet (Arcep)
Arcep map of the technologies, operators and maximum speeds available at an address, including the status of the copper network closure.
Arcep – J'alerte l'Arcep
Report a problem with your operator. Arcep uses these alerts to act on the market but does not settle individual disputes.
🪜 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
❓ 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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