COVID-19: operators can adapt the FTTP installation process

"Operators can continue to boost FTTP take-up during the coronavirus pandemic by making fibre self-installable, offering short-term cellular options and providing clear information to subscribers about their hygiene precautions."

The coronavirus pandemic has brought unprecedented disruption worldwide and many countries have imposed lockdowns. Such lockdowns and restrictions present challenges for FTTP operators because engineers may not be permitted to enter a subscriber’s premises and subscribers may also be unwilling to let engineers enter because of infection fears. This comment examines solutions to these challenges and assesses how operators can help subscribers to perform their own fibre installation, offer temporary cellular connectivity and promote the hygiene measures that will minimise infection risks.