What’s the Difference Between SOGEA, FTTP, and Fibre Broadband?

When looking for a fast and reliable internet connection for your business or home, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of acronyms: SOGEA, FTTP, Fibre, FTTC, and more. They all promise better speeds, but what exactly do they mean, and which one is right for you?

In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between SOGEA, FTTP, and Fibre in simple terms, so you can make the best decision for your connectivity needs.

What is “Fibre” Broadband?

Let’s start with the basics: fibre broadband is a general term that refers to internet connections that use fibre-optic cables. Fibre-optic cables are faster and more reliable than traditional copper phone lines (used in ADSL connections), and are now the standard for modern broadband.

But not all “fibre” broadband is the same — and that’s where things like FTTC, FTTP, and SOGEA come in.

FTTC – Fibre to the Cabinet (Traditional Fibre)

FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) is what most people in the UK currently use. It uses fibre from your provider to the nearest green cabinet in your street, and then copper phone lines from the cabinet to your premises.

Pros:

• Widely available across the UK

• Faster than ADSL

• Affordable

Cons:

• Speed drops over distance

• Uses the old copper phone network, which is being phased out

• Requires a phone line

SOGEA – Single Order Generic Ethernet Access

SOGEA is a newer version of FTTC. It still uses the same cabinet-based infrastructure, but it doesn’t require a traditional phone line. That means voice services and broadband are separated — ideal since the old PSTN (landline) system is being switched off.

In simple terms:

SOGEA gives you FTTC-level broadband without the need for a landline. It’s a step toward modern, all-digital services.

Pros:

• No phone line rental required

• More reliable than traditional FTTC

• Future-proofed for the PSTN switch-off

Cons:

• Still uses copper for the last leg, so not as fast or stable as FTTP

• Availability depends on your area

FTTP – Fibre to the Premises (Full Fibre)

FTTP is the gold standard. It delivers fibre all the way from the provider directly to your home or business, with no copper involved. This allows for ultra-fast, gigabit-capable speeds and rock-solid reliability.

Pros:

• Very high speeds (up to 1Gbps and beyond)

• Consistent performance regardless of distance

• Ideal for high-demand businesses and heavy streaming, gaming or video conferencing

Cons:

• Not yet available everywhere

• Usually costs more than FTTC or SOGEA

• May require professional installation

Which One Should Your Business Use?

That depends on your size, needs, and budget:

• Start-ups or small offices: SOGEA is a great cost-effective option without needing a landline.

• Remote workers/home offices: FTTP (if available) is ideal for video calls, cloud apps, and stable speeds.

• Medium to large businesses: FTTP is the future-proof choice, especially for teams using cloud services, VoIP phones, or uploading large files.

Need Help Choosing the Right Broadband?

We help businesses like yours navigate the confusing world of connectivity. Whether you're upgrading from ADSL, preparing for the PSTN switch-off, or looking for lightning-fast full fibre, we can match you with the right service — including FTTP, SOGEA, or even Starlink in rural areas.

Let’s talk about your broadband. Schedule a free consultation today and we’ll help you find the fastest, most reliable connection for your business.