The German Federal Government aims to systematically advance the nationwide technology shift – away from copper networks and towards fiber optics. The Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and State Modernization (BMDS) has published key points and launched a public consultation. The DIHK welcomes this step because modern digital infrastructures are a central factor for the entire commercial economy. At the same time, the DIHK urges practical transitions: for many companies, migration is complex, investment-intensive, and directly relevant to ongoing operations.
Das Wichtigste in Kürze
- Die DIHK unterstützt die BMDS-Initiative für einen transparenten und wettbewerbssicheren Migrationsprozess.
- Eine Abschaltung der Kupfernetze darf nur erfolgen, wenn gleichwertige Alternativen verfügbar sind – sonst drohen Versorgungslücken, insbesondere im ländlichen Raum.
- Unternehmen benötigen klare Zeitpläne, verlässliche Informationen und Übergangsregelungen, um technische und organisatorische Anpassungen zu stemmen.
- Spezielle Anforderungen geschäftlicher Nutzer – z. B. die Sicherstellung der Funktionstüchtigkeit von Notrufsystemen, Alarmanlagen, Steuerungstechnik – müssen frühzeitig berücksichtigt werden.
- Die DIHK schlägt Pilotprojekte speziell für Geschäftskunden vor, um Hürden zu identifizieren und Lösungen zu entwickeln.
- Die BNetzA spielt eine zentrale Rolle: Sie muss Wettbewerb, Versorgungssicherheit und Wahlfreiheit sichern.
Background
The capacity of copper-based networks is increasingly reaching its limits: bandwidth, reliability, and future viability can no longer keep up with growing demand in the economy and society.
In contrast, fiber optics offer:
- Stable and symmetrical gigabit bandwidths
- Lower susceptibility to disturbances
- High future and investment security
- A future-proof foundation for digital business models, IoT, cloud, and AI applications
Therefore, a nationwide fiber optic rollout is crucial for Germany's competitiveness.
What businesses need to consider now
Many enterprises today use FTTC/VDSL connections – copper-based technology on the 'last mile'. Switching to fiber optics often requires investments in hardware, software, and internal processes.
It is therefore essential:
- Location analysis: Is fiber optics available? If not: Where are the gaps?
- Technical review:
- Alarm systems
- Elevator emergency call systems
- Home emergency systems
- Control and building technology
- Analog special applications
- Migration planning with IT service providers and telecommunications providers
- Early involvement of employees and service providers
- Communication with network operators to plan changes and schedules
The migration requires significantly more effort for business users than for private customers.
DIHK requirements for copper-glass migration
- Strengthen voluntary migration: The key phase of voluntary migration must better consider business needs. DIHK calls for additional pilot projects at commercial locations.
- No shutdown without alternatives: unilateral terminations of business connections must not disproportionately burden companies. DIHK insists on clear reasonability criteria and hardship rules.
- Non-discriminatory shutdown: Shutdowns of copper networks must be transparent and fair for all network operators. Companies need reliable timelines for migration planning.
- Transparency about expansion and shutdown: Companies must be able to recognize early on when their locations are affected. Expansion plans must not be changed at short notice.
- No quality loss due to migration: Alternative infrastructure must offer at least the same quality. DIHK calls for targeted support to close existing coverage gaps (e.g., 'Gap Closure Pilot Program').
- Strengthen communication – especially for business customers: DIHK welcomes BMDS communication plans, but calls for stronger inclusion of IHK organizations as trusted multipliers for companies.
- BNetzA must set the framework: The Federal Network Agency should develop a regulatory concept that ensures competition, security of supply, and freedom of choice. Shutdowns should only occur with well-developed FTTH networks or equivalent alternatives.
- Monitoring & process management: The migration process must be transparently monitored. Flexible intervention possibilities of the BNetzA are useful but should not impair companies' planning security.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are copper networks being shut down?
Because they are technically limited, and modern applications only work reliably with fiber optics. Operating parallel networks long-term is uneconomical and not energy-efficient.
Are all regions in Germany affected?
Yes, but only if fiber optics are available.
What happens to companies without fiber optic connections?
According to the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), there should be no shutdown as long as equivalent alternatives are missing.
How will the transition be organized?
In collaboration between network operators and the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA).
What applies to sensitive applications?
Companies should check early whether their internal emergency or control systems need adjustment.
Download
Statement on key points for copper-glass migration (PDF, 115 KB)(only available in German)
Further Links
BMDS: Key Points Copper-Glass Migration (only available in German)
Federal Network Agency: Fibre-optics & Disconnection Process – Gigabit Office of the Federal Government
- Relevant in topic:
- Innovation
- Key areas:
-
- Digitalisierung
Released 16.11.2025
Modified 16.03.2026
Contact
Dr. Katrin Sobania
Director Department for Information and Communication Technology | E-Government | Postal Services | IT Security