OCU explains alternatives to connecting to the Internet if you don’t have fiber.

OCU

Closing of the last copper smelters marks the end of an era ADSL technology in Spain. Since its introduction in 1999, it has become the mainstay of connecting many homes. However, its use has been declining over time, and at the end of 2023, only 10% of households were still dependent on the technology.

After the closure of these factories, thousands of homes were left without fixed connection, since fiber still does not cover 100% of the territory. Although most copper access will be replaced by fiber optics, there is still a portion of the population without such an alternative.

Guarantee Internet access This is a serious problem in an increasingly digital world. In response to this, Ministry of Economy and Digital Transformation approved a resolution guaranteeing connectivity in all rural, remote and sparsely populated areas of Spain. One of the proposed solutions is satellite communications, which will effectively cover these areas.

Additionally, there are other alternatives for those who have run out ADSL connectionThe OCU reports this. While the closure of copper smelters represents a significant change, steps are being taken to ensure that everyone has access to the Internet in the near future.

Spain is a leading country in fiber optics

Digital Decade 2023 Report by European Commission (EC), shows that 91.02% of homes in Spain have access to fiber optic cable (FTTP). This figure represents an improvement on the previous year’s report, which recorded 88.93%, and significantly exceeds the European Union average of 56.5%.

Spain remains in second position in the EU in terms of fiber optic coverage in homes, second only to Romania, which leads with 95.59%. Latvia, which previously topped this ranking, dropped to fourth place.

Alternatives to fiber optics according to OCU

There are various alternatives for connecting to the Internet in rural areas or where there is no electricity. optical fiber.

One of them is satellite communication via Hispasat, which is offered at an affordable price of 35 euros per month and a download speed of 100 Mbps. In addition, users do not have to pay for registration or installation, since they have assistance of up to 600 euros to cover these costs. This service is made possible thanks to the UNICO Rural Demand program, which guarantees connectivity until the end of 2027 while fiber is deployed throughout the country.

Another alternative is 4G and 5G technology, which offers connectivity via mobile Internet. Although it has higher latency than a satellite connection, it has advantages such as the speed of connection and the mobility it offers. However, this requires mobile coverage and browsing speeds may be less consistent than fiber optics.

Finally, WiMAX technology It uses radio waves to transmit data without the need for cables, making it a suitable option for rural areas or where cables are not available. Although it does not require payment for installation, it does require direct contact with the repeater, which in some cases may involve the installation of intermediate connection points.

Best telephone operators

OCU conducted a survey to assess the level satisfaction from using a mobile phone, Internet at home or mobile, landline and pay TV. In general, Spaniards are quite satisfied with the services offered by the various telecommunications providers on the market.

However, surprisingly, smaller operators They seem to lead the way in satisfaction, with Parlem in first place, followed by Pepephone. In the study, the OCU focused on five main services: fixed-line communications, mobile communications, home Internet, mobile Internet and pay television.

On the mobile side, most operators received good scores for both talk and internet connectivity. Among the major operators, Parlem and Pepephone stand out, followed by O2 and Simyo. Movistar leads, followed by Vodafone and Orange.

Regarding the type of Internet connection at home, 84% of respondents have optical fiber, with only 6% using ADSL and a further 9% connecting via mobile data using a router. Simyo stands out as the best among fiber users, while Vodafone leads among ADSL users.

Pay TV It has also gained popularity with streaming platforms like Filmin, Disney+ and Netflix receiving good ratings. 45% of respondents share their subscription to streaming platforms with others outside their home.

For combination offers, 89% of respondents have one. The most popular combination includes a mobile phone, landline phone, Internet and pay TV from the same operator.