What is full fibre (FTTP)?
Full fibre (FTTP) is broadband delivered over fibre-optic cables directly to your home. It can improve stability and upload performance, but availability and installation requirements vary by address.
FibreSwitch is a comparison service, not a broadband provider. We help you compare options and understand what to check before you switch.
Written by: Alex Martin-Smith
Broadband comparison and consumer switching guidance. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmartinsmith/
Reviewed by: Adrian James
Digital product leadership and broadband comparison review. https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-james-b71441380/
Reviewed on: 31 January 2026
Quick summary
- FTTP means fibre runs directly to your property.
- It often delivers stronger upload performance than part-fibre.
- Availability varies by address, not just postcode.
- Installation may require an engineer visit and new equipment.
- Compare total cost and contract length, not just speed.
- Check how your home layout affects Wi-Fi performance.
On this page
What is full fibre broadband?
Full fibre is a connection where fibre-optic cable runs directly to your home, rather than stopping at the cabinet.
That direct fibre path is why FTTP can deliver stronger, more consistent performance for busy households.
It is different from part-fibre connections, which rely on copper for the final stretch.
Use a simple decision rule for what is full fibre (fttp)?: if the address level estimate is already low, a higher tier might not deliver more in practice unless the underlying network changes. In that case, improving Wi-Fi coverage or switching to a different network can be more effective.
If you are unsure how what is full fibre (fttp)? applies to your home, test your current service first. A wired speed test gives the best view of the line, while Wi-Fi tests show indoor coverage. That split helps you decide whether to change provider or change your home setup.
For what is full fibre (fttp)?, make sure you understand any notice period before you make changes. Some providers require advance notice, which can affect the date you switch or cancel. Planning around the notice period reduces overlap charges and avoids accidental early termination.
If your home has a complex layout, what is full fibre (fttp)? decisions should include where your router will sit. The best plan can still feel slow if the router is in a corner or behind thick walls. A quick placement check and a repeat speed test can reveal whether Wi-Fi is the real issue.
How does full fibre work?
Fibre-optic cables carry data using light, which allows more reliable performance over distance.
At your home, the fibre connection terminates at equipment installed by the network or provider. Your router then creates your home Wi-Fi network.
If your Wi-Fi setup is weak, you may not see the full benefit of full fibre, so the home setup still matters.
When a provider offers a promotional price for what is full fibre (fttp)?, check what happens after the promotion ends. Some deals rise after an introductory period, so the long term value can be different from the first bill. Always compare the full term cost.
For what is full fibre (fttp)?, ask about equipment returns and any charges for missing deadlines. Routers, TV boxes, or mesh units often need to be returned when you leave, and late returns can add costs. Keep proof of postage and confirmation of receipt.
If you are moving home or renovating, factor what is full fibre (fttp)? decisions into your timeline. Installation dates can slip if access is not confirmed or if address records are missing. Book early and keep a backup option if you need connectivity on a fixed date.
Use a simple checklist before you commit to what is full fibre (fttp)?: confirm availability, confirm terms, and confirm timing. Those three checks prevent most surprises and make it easier to compare offers that look similar on paper.
What are the benefits and limitations?
FTTP is usually more stable, but availability and installation requirements can still be a barrier.
Full fibre can improve upload performance and reduce speed swings at peak times, but it is not a guarantee of perfect Wi-Fi.
If you live in a flat or listed building, installation can require access or permission, which affects timing.
For what is full fibre (fttp)?, keep a record of the key facts you used to decide, such as estimated speeds, contract length, and price change terms. That record helps if you later need to compare offers or raise a query with the provider.
For what is full fibre (fttp)?, start with an address level availability check, then compare estimated speeds with how your household actually uses broadband. That keeps expectations realistic and helps you avoid overpaying for a tier that will not perform at your address. Where providers show ranges, use the lower end as your planning figure and keep a note of any installation lead times or access requirements.
If you are comparing what is full fibre (fttp)? options, ask the provider to confirm any terms that vary by network, especially where installation or contract terms differ. Providers often share core details in the contract summary, but the best way to avoid surprises is to request the specifics in writing before you place the order.
Many households focus on headline speed, but for what is full fibre (fttp)?, stability, upload performance, and in home coverage often matter more. A plan that performs consistently at peak times can feel faster in day to day use than a faster plan that drops or fluctuates. Test at the time you normally rely on the connection.
- Better stability and upload performance
- More future-proof for larger households
- Installation can take longer depending on access
- Wi-Fi quality still depends on your home setup
How do you check availability?
Use an address-level checker rather than relying on postcode averages.
Two homes on the same street can have different availability, especially for new builds and flats.
If you are unsure, compare results from multiple providers to confirm what is live at your address.
If you rely on what is full fibre (fttp)? for work, study, or streaming, prioritise predictable performance over short term discounts. Shorter contracts can offer flexibility, but longer contracts may be good value if the provider has a strong track record at your address. When in doubt, compare total cost across the full term.
When you compare what is full fibre (fttp)? deals, check the router and Wi-Fi coverage assumptions. A strong line can still feel slow if the router is in a poor location or if the home layout blocks signal. If you cannot place the router centrally, plan for mesh or wired access points before you upgrade the package.
It is easy to underestimate how much simultaneous use affects what is full fibre (fttp)?. If more than one person is online at the same time, build in extra headroom. That might mean a higher tier, but it can also mean a better Wi-Fi setup or a change in router placement, so check the simplest fixes first.
If a provider offers a strong deal for what is full fibre (fttp)?, confirm whether any mid contract price changes apply. Price changes can alter the total cost and should be included in your comparison. Ask for the price change terms and keep the confirmation with your order details.
What does installation involve?
FTTP often requires an engineer visit and new equipment at the property.
The installation timeline depends on network availability and whether any external work is needed. Ask for the likely lead time before you commit.
Make sure you can provide access and decide where the equipment and router should be placed.
How should you compare FTTP deals?
Compare total cost, contract length, and the install timeline, not just headline speed.
If two deals have similar speeds, the deciding factors are often contract length, router quality, and installation timing.
If your home is large, consider whether a mesh system is needed for good Wi-Fi coverage.
Common mistakes
- Assuming FTTP is available without checking the full address.
- Focusing on speed without checking installation timing.
- Ignoring router placement and Wi-Fi coverage.
- Comparing deals by headline speed only.
- Overlooking contract length and price changes.
Full fibre checklist
- Check full fibre availability at your exact address.
- Confirm installation requirements and timeline.
- Compare total cost over the contract.
- Plan router placement and Wi-Fi coverage.
- Keep confirmation details and install dates.
More from SearchSwitchSave.com
External reading from our parent company. Links open in a new tab.
Trust and transparency
Read how we compare providers and keep guidance accurate: coverage, editorial policy, corrections policy, how we make money.
Spotted an issue. Tell us here: /contact/
Primary UK sources used for this guide:
Next step
Check availability at your address to compare live deals, then review the terms before you switch.
FAQs
Is full fibre the same as FTTP?
Yes. FTTP is the technical term for full fibre to the property.
Does full fibre guarantee fast Wi-Fi?
No. Wi-Fi performance also depends on router placement and home layout.
Do I need an engineer visit for full fibre?
Often yes, but it depends on the network and property.
Last updated: 31 January 2026.