SoGEA or FTTP?
A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Broadband for Your Business
SoGEA or FTTP? Which connection fits your business needs today? Many UK owners compare both choices and ask if one offers better speed, stronger reliability, or faster setup. Some want to know if SoGEA still makes sense, while others feel unsure about FTTP readiness. This guide answers those real questions in clear language so you can choose the right option with confidence.
UK business communication specialist with 10+ years of experience guiding companies through broadband and VoIP choices.
What Is SoGEA Broadband? (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access)
SoGEA is a broadband line that gives your business fast internet without using a phone line. It replaces older FTTC lines by running on a data-only route, which makes it ready for VoIP from the start.
SoGEA uses fibre to the cabinet and a short copper link for the final stretch. This helps companies lower costs and avoid paying for unused phone lines. Many UK offices choose SoGEA because installation is quick, costs stay fair, and performance remains steady for daily tasks such as cloud tools, team calls, and online meetings.
FAQ: What Should I Know About SoGEA?
Does SoGEA need a landline?
No. The line works on data-only, so you do not need a landline.
Is SoGEA strong enough for VoIP?
Yes. It handles voice traffic well for small and mid-size teams.
Is SoGEA still useful when FTTP is growing?
Yes. Many postcodes still depend on SoGEA until full fibre reaches their area.
When Does SoGEA Fit a Business Best?
SoGEA suits businesses that want stable speeds at a lower cost and need broadband activated quickly. It is ideal for offices with small or mid-size teams that use VoIP, cloud tools, email, and video chats.
Retail shops, clinics, small agencies, accountants, and service-based offices often pick SoGEA because it fits everyday workloads. Many teams also choose SoGEA as a starting point and move to FTTP later once full fibre becomes available.
FAQ: Is SoGEA Right for My Business?
Can SoGEA support several VoIP users at once?
Yes. It works well for offices with typical daily call volumes.
Can I upgrade from SoGEA to FTTP later?
Yes. You can switch easily once full fibre becomes available.
How many users can SoGEA support comfortably?
Most offices with around 1–20 users find it suitable for daily tasks.
See if SoGEA suits your building and daily use.
What Is FTTP Internet? (Fibre To The Premises)
FTTP is a broadband line that uses fibre from the exchange directly to your building. This gives higher speeds, lower delay, and more stable performance than lines that use any copper.
With FTTP, your connection stays strong even during heavy use because the whole route remains fibre. This helps offices that rely on cloud systems, video calls, online storage, and large file movement. Many growing businesses pick FTTP because it supports higher speeds today and can increase further when demands change in the future.
FAQ: What Should I Know About FTTP?
Does FTTP use any copper?
No. It stays fibre from the exchange to your building.
Is FTTP better for cloud tools?
Yes. Full fibre keeps performance steady for apps that run online.
Why does FTTP take longer to install?
The line may need fibre build work near the property, which can add time.
When Does FTTP Fit a Business Best?
FTTP suits companies that need strong speed throughout the day and want the most stable connection available. It works well for teams that use cloud software for long hours or handle files that move across shared systems.
Offices with designers, remote workers, developers, and customer service teams often use FTTP because it keeps everything smooth during busy hours. It also helps businesses with long-term plans, as full fibre gives room for higher speeds later without major changes.
FAQ: Is FTTP Right for My Business?
Is FTTP needed for small teams?
It depends on usage. Small teams that rely on cloud tools gain value from FTTP..
Does FTTP give smoother video meetings?
Yes. Lower delay helps calls stay clear even when several people join.
Can FTTP support many VoIP users at once?
Yes. The line can handle heavy call loads without issues.
Check if full fibre is ready in your area today.
SoGEA vs FTTP: Key Differences Explained for UK SMEs
FTTP gives higher speeds and lower delay because the line stays fibre from end to end. SoGEA uses fibre to the cabinet with a short copper section, which lowers cost but limits speed. Both support VoIP and cloud work, yet each suits different needs.
Many teams compare these two options when choosing a business broadband plan. SoGEA offers solid value and faster installation, while FTTP gives stronger long-term performance. The right choice depends on usage, budget, and postcode coverage.
FAQ: What Should I Know About SoGEA vs FTTP?
Which one delivers faster speed?
FTTP gives higher speeds because the full route stays fibre.
Which one is cheaper?
SoGEA usually costs less because part of the line uses copper.
Which one has wider UK coverage today?
SoGEA currently covers more postcodes because FTTP rollout continues across the country.
Speed and Performance Comparison
FTTP delivers higher speeds because the line uses fibre from end to end. SoGEA offers steady performance but cannot match full fibre due to the short copper section near the property.
Teams that use cloud tools for long hours or move large files feel the performance difference the most. FTTP keeps speed consistent during busy hours, while SoGEA suits moderate usage levels.
FAQ: Speed and Performance
Is SoGEA enough for daily VoIP?
Yes. It handles voice calls well for small and mid-size teams.
Does FTTP reduce delay during online meetings?
Yes. Full fibre lowers delay, keeping video calls smoother.
Do speeds drop on SoGEA during peak hours?
SoGEA stays stable for everyday tasks but may slow slightly under heavy load.
Installation Time and Setup Differences
SoGEA installs quickly because it uses existing routes to the cabinet. FTTP may take longer as it needs fibre build work near the property.
This difference helps offices that need quick activation. SoGEA suits companies moving into new spaces or needing an urgent line. FTTP may require extra groundwork but offers long-term benefits.
FAQ: Installation and Setup
How long does SoGEA take to install?
SoGEA can be ready within a few working days in most cases.
Why does FTTP take longer?
Full fibre may need extra work near the building before activation.
Can I switch from SoGEA to FTTP later?
Yes. You can upgrade once full fibre reaches your postcode.
Cost Difference Between SoGEA and FTTP
SoGEA costs less because it uses some copper. FTTP costs more due to full fibre build work and higher capacity.
The cost gap matters to small offices with fixed budgets. SoGEA gives good value for moderate use, while FTTP supports heavy workloads and long-term plans.
FAQ: Cost and Budget
Is FTTP worth the higher price?
It is worth it for teams that depend on cloud tools or large files.
Does SoGEA offer good value?
Yes. It suits most small offices that need stable internet at lower cost.
Are running costs different?
SoGEA usually has slightly lower monthly costs than FTTP.
Coverage and Availability Across the UK
SoGEA covers more UK postcodes today because it runs on the old FTTC network. FTTP continues to grow but is still rolling out in many regions.
Availability often shapes the final decision. Some areas can install FTTP now, while others need SoGEA until fibre build work is complete.
FAQ: Coverage and Rollout
Will FTTP reach most areas soon?
Yes. Rollout continues across the UK, with new zones added regularly.
Should I wait for FTTP if SoGEA is available?
If your work needs stronger speed, waiting may help. Many teams start with SoGEA and upgrade later.
How do I check coverage?
A provider can check your postcode and confirm which options are ready.
Not sure which line fits your office? Get a quick recommendation.
SoGEA or FTTP — Which Should Your Business Pick? (Decision Guide)
FTTP suits companies that need higher speed and long-term performance, while SoGEA fits teams that want stable internet at a lower cost with quick setup. The right choice depends on usage, budget, and postcode coverage.
Think about how your team works each day. If your office uses cloud tools for long hours, handles large files, or runs many VoIP calls at once, FTTP offers the strongest results. If your building needs a connection fast, or if the work stays light, SoGEA offers solid value. Many offices begin with SoGEA and move to FTTP once full fibre reaches their area.
FAQ: Choosing Between SoGEA and FTTP
Which one is better for small offices?
SoGEA suits most small teams that need steady speeds for daily tasks.
Which one is better for growing companies?
FTTP supports heavier workloads and offers room for higher speeds later.
Should I wait for FTTP if it’s not yet available?
You can start with SoGEA now and upgrade when full fibre reaches your postcode.
Do I need FTTP for clear VoIP calls?
Not always. SoGEA supports clear calls when the internal network is set up well.
Does FTTP help remote workers?
Yes. Full fibre keeps speed steady for shared online tasks.
What if my building does not support FTTP yet?
You can begin with SoGEA and switch later with no major changes.
Tell us your postcode and team size. We'll guide you to the right option.
Why Businesses Choose The VoIP Shop for Broadband + VoIP
The VoIP Shop gives UK businesses a simple way to set up broadband and VoIP under one trusted provider. You get clear advice, quick support, and a team that understands day-to-day challenges faced by small and mid-size companies.
Many business owners prefer working with one reliable partner rather than juggling several suppliers. With The VoIP Shop, you get broadband, VoIP, setup help, guidance, and ongoing support handled by a single team. This makes issues easier to solve, reduces delays, and lowers stress during busy workdays.
FAQ: Why Pick The VoIP Shop?
Do you support both SoGEA and FTTP?
Yes. You can choose either line based on your needs and postcode.
Can you set up VoIP on the same day as broadband activation?
In many cases, yes. The team will guide you through each stage.
What makes your support different?
You get UK-based help available at all times, with clear steps and friendly guidance.
Benefits of Getting Broadband and VoIP Together
Using one provider for broadband and VoIP keeps everything simple and removes the confusion that comes when several suppliers are involved. One team handles setup, checks performance, and supports you when needed.
Here are the main benefits:
FAQ: Broadband and VoIP Together
Does using one provider reduce downtime?
Yes. Issues get fixed faster because one team controls the full setup.
Can this improve VoIP call quality?
Yes. Matching the right broadband line with your VoIP system keeps calls steady.
Is it easy to upgrade to FTTP later?
Yes. The move is simple once full fibre reaches your postcode.
Set up broadband and VoIP with one trusted partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do both SoGEA and FTTP work during a power cut?
Both lines stop working during a power cut unless your router and VoIP phones run on backup power. A small UPS can keep your connection active.
Q2: Can I keep my business number when moving to SoGEA or FTTP?
Yes. Your number can move to a VoIP system, and the transfer can be planned to avoid call disruption.
Q3: Do I need a new router when switching to FTTP?
Some routers support FTTP out of the box, but older models may need replacement for stronger speed and stability.
Q4: Will my broadband price change after upgrading to FTTP?
The price may change depending on the chosen speed tier. Your provider can explain the options in simple terms.
Q5: How long does switching between providers take?
Most moves take a few working days. Your provider guides you through the steps to avoid downtime.
Q6: Can both lines support CCTV systems and card machines?
Yes. Both SoGEA and FTTP support CCTV feeds, card terminals, and other connected devices used in offices and shops.
Q7: Do I need VoIP when using SoGEA or FTTP?
You do not need VoIP, but most businesses move to VoIP because old phone lines no longer run after the PSTN switch-off.
Q8: Can I use the same broadband for remote workers?
Yes. Both lines support remote access tools, but FTTP gives a smoother experience for teams handling larger tasks.
Once you have secured your SOGEA or FTTP connection, the next step is ensuring your phone system can handle the speed. Don't let an outdated PBX hold you back—check out our 2025 review of the best business VoIP providers UK to pair with your new broadband.
Conclusion
Choosing between SoGEA and FTTP depends on how your team works each day. SoGEA gives reliable performance at a lower cost and installs quickly, making it a strong choice for smaller offices and areas waiting for full fibre. FTTP offers higher speed, lower delay, and better long-term value for companies that rely heavily on cloud tools or handle large workloads.
Both lines support VoIP, online meetings, shared drives, and the tools used by most UK businesses. The best choice comes down to your usage, building location, and growth plans. If you need help deciding, The VoIP Shop can check your postcode and guide you through the right option for your office.
Ready to upgrade your connection? Let us check your postcode and guide you step by step.
