The important role of SoGEA for businesses in 2025 and beyond
Tuesday 1st April 2025
The date of the Big Switch Off is looming. While 2027 (the date for the final shutdown of the network and deadline for the switch to digital) may still feel like it is some time away, the phasing out process is gradual and one that organisations should prefer for sooner rather than later. In fact, there are already regional “stop-sell” dates in place, meaning that traditional services can no longer be ordered in some instances.
Migrating from BT’s outdated Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) to an All-IP isn’t a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’, with the move to modern, fibre-optic networks from these older, copper-based systems now guaranteed.
We previously explored what the Big Switch Off means for your business, but in this article, we delve deeper into the solutions that could just help you move with the times, stay ahead of the curve and enjoy a seamless transition that won’t let you down.
One such solution is Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SoGEA) broadband. The question is – is this the right next step for you and your business?
An introduction to SoGEA broadband
A bridge between the old way of doing things and the new, SoGEA may be a newbie to the UK broadband market but it offers the best of both worlds as the Big Switch Off approaches.
While not quite FTTP (Full Fibre to the Premises), SoGEA broadband offers the ability to connect to upgraded switching hardware without an active copper phone line. It’s also a cost-effective solution because it bypasses the line rental fees commonly associated with internet connections associated with traditional phone lines.
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Comparing SoGEA with the alternatives
When compared to Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC), it’s likely you’ll notice very little difference (if any) with SoGEA in terms of performance and data speeds. Typically, users can expect 80Mbps downstream and 20Mbps upstream.
It also uses the same infrastructure, without needing a phone line as part of the setup. A fact that means minimal downtime for you as you make the switch, a more streamlined service, and a cost-effective outcome.
The speed and reliability of SoGEA broadband in comparison to ADSL is also comparable. Although it is important to note that, like FTTC, the overall speed of your SoGEA broadband connection depends on your business premises’ proximity to the nearest street cabinet and network traffic.
Future proof your business connectivity
SoGEA broadband is a great stepping stone for businesses that can’t currently access FTTP and now rely on FTTC or ADSL (officially known as ‘asymmetric digital subscriber line’) broadband.
With many connectivity services (including ours) advising their customers to make the switch to digital before the Big Switch Off, embracing SoGEA broadband during 2025 can help to ensure seamless business continuity into the future.
As an award-winning, excellent-rated provider of corporate connectivity services, we’re in the business of keeping you connected with fast, reliable fibre broadband and the most advanced phone solutions.
