Why the
Switch-Off
The Island’s communications technology is changing.
Technology is Changing
Manx Telecom has announced that it is planning to switch-off the Isle of Man’s copper network.
Since the introduction of the copper network over a century ago, consumer needs have changed. From originally needing to make landline calls to the first dial-up internet, many consumers now use the network for high-speed internet access.
The copper network can no longer keep up with the speed and reliability needed by many for internet access. Some parts of the copper network are outdated, and it is getting harder to find replacement parts, which will mean more frequent issues and interruptions.
The Island’s service providers have introduced new technologies, including Fibre, Fixed Wireless Access, and Satellite, that can be used to provide landline phone and broadband services and still meet changing consumer needs.
The Planned Switch-Off Date
Manx Telecom plans to switch-off the copper network by 2029.
This does not mean the end of landline telephone or broadband services. All of the Island’s consumers will be invited to transfer their current service to a new type of service. The new services will allow consumers to make telephone calls in much the same way as they do now. Around 62% of the Island’s subscribers are already using these new services.
The initial transition process began in 2025 for some areas of the Island, and will continue until all consumers have been transferred from the copper network. Once all consumers have transitioned, it is planned for the copper network to be switched-off and decommissioned.
