SoGEA vs FTTC: Which Broadband Solution is Best for Your Business?

With numerous internet connection options available today, deciding on the best solution for your business can be overwhelming. Two popular choices, SoGEA and FTTC, often emerge as frontrunners, but understanding their differences and similarities is crucial before making a decision.

At Elite Group, we specialise in business technology solutions and have guided countless organisations in choosing the right connectivity to meet their unique needs. Keep reading to discover how SoGEA and FTTC compare and which one might be the best fit for your business.

What is FTTC?

FTTC, or “Fibre to the Cabinet,” is a broadband connection that combines fibre optic cables and traditional copper wiring. Fibre cables run from the exchange to the street cabinet, while copper wiring connects the cabinet to the customer’s premises.

Introduced in the UK in 2008, FTTC was a significant improvement over outdated analogue lines, offering faster and more reliable internet. However, its speed and reliability are still influenced by the distance between the cabinet and the customer’s location.

What is SoGEA?

SoGEA, or “Single Order Generic Ethernet Access,” also utilises a mix of fibre optic and copper cables. The key difference is that SoGEA does not include a traditional phone line. Instead, it supports modern digital phone solutions, helping businesses transition seamlessly away from the soon-to-be-obsolete PSTN network.

By adopting SoGEA, businesses can leverage digital communication tools like VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) and prepare for the upcoming PSTN switch-off.

SoGEA vs FTTC: A Comparison at a Glance

Here’s an overview of the main differences and similarities between SoGEA and FTTC:

What Speeds are Available with SoGEA vs FTTC?

Both SoGEA and FTTC offer standard download speeds of 80 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps. However, SoGEA has the potential for advanced speeds reaching 300 Mbps, making it a more attractive option for businesses reliant on data-heavy applications such as video conferencing, cloud-based tools, and VoIP.

FTTC speeds, on the other hand, are more variable and depend on your distance from the street cabinet, which may result in lower reliability for some users.

Can I get SoGEA Now?

SoGEA is accessible to approximately 28 million UK properties, though its availability depends on existing fibre optic infrastructure in your area. It’s also quicker to install, with an average turnaround of 5 working days.

FTTC boasts nearly universal UK coverage, but installation can take anywhere from 14 to 30 days, making it less convenient for businesses that require a swift setup.

To find out whether you’re able to install SoGEA for your business, speak to an Elite Group expert today for a free consultation.

SoGEA vs FTTC: Reliability and Future-Proofing

While both broadband types rely on similar infrastructure, SoGEA stands out as the more reliable option due to its modern technology and lack of reliance on a physical phone line.

With the upcoming PSTN switch-off in 2027, businesses using FTTC with analogue phone lines will need to adopt a digital solution to maintain communication services. By choosing SoGEA, you’ll avoid this disruption and benefit from a more future-proofed setup.

Additionally, SoGEA connections are less prone to technical issues, as they operate as a single-order service with fewer moving parts.

SoGEA vs FTTC Cost Comparison

SoGEA typically comes with a higher price tag compared to FTTC, reflecting its status as a more advanced and modern broadband solution. However, it can often result in long-term savings as there’s no need for a physical phone line or its associated costs.

For an exact cost breakdown tailored to your business’s needs, speak to an Elite Group specialist today.

SoGEA vs FTTC Broadband for a Small and Large Business

Small Businesses

SoGEA offers numerous advantages for small businesses, including faster speeds, reduced maintenance costs, and the elimination of analogue phone lines. These benefits make it a reliable and cost-effective solution for smaller organisations looking to modernise their broadband setup.

Large Businesses

Larger businesses with greater bandwidth demands can benefit significantly from SoGEA’s higher reliability and scalability. Its advanced speeds and digital capabilities ensure stable performance, even for data-intensive tasks. By investing in SoGEA, enterprises can boost productivity and achieve a higher return on investment.

Choose the Right Broadband Option for Your Business with Elite

Choosing the right broadband solution is vital to your business’s success. Whether you’re leaning towards SoGEA, FTTC, or considering other options, Elite Group is here to offer the tools and the knowledge you need to keep your business connected.

As a specialist in business connectivity, we provide tailored advice to ensure you receive a solution that fits your specific needs. With our seamless onboarding process and dedicated support, you can trust us to keep your business connected.

To explore your options, get in touch with the Elite Group team today.