Fibre internet (FTTH, FTTB)

Fibre internet carries data over optical fibre. The Czech Telecommunication Office (ČTÚ) distinguishes two variants: FTTH (fibre to the home), where the optical connection runs all the way to the network termination point at the user, i.e. into the flat or house, and FTTB (fibre to the building), where the fibre ends at the foot of the building and internal wiring continues to the flats. Under EU rules, which ČTÚ applies, a network that is fully optical up to the building counts as a very high capacity network (VHCN). On the ČTÚ map fibre connections also reach the top speed bands, 300-1,000 Mbit/s and 1,000 Mbit/s or more.

Where the data come from

Every year ČTÚ collects data from electronic communications undertakings on connections at individual addresses and shows them in the Fixed services module of its VPortal. The data are static and reflect the situation as of 31 December of the given year, so the network may have expanded since. The data are reported by the company that operates the connection or infrastructure; internet over its network may be sold by other retail providers.

How to read the figure

ČTÚ records so-called available connections. This is a connection already in service, one ready for service, or one that can easily be completed on request: without disproportionate cost such as extensive digging, and within four weeks. For speed, ČTÚ distinguishes the effective speed that can normally be expected even at peak times, and the maximum achievable speed.

What to watch out for

• Fibre reported at an address does not guarantee that a particular flat already has a fibre socket.
• With FTTB the resulting speed also depends on the internal wiring of the building.
• In an apartment building, connection and wiring are often decided by the owners' association (SVJ), so ask the building manager.
• The offers of specific providers for the address have to be checked with them directly.

Frequently asked questions

What if there is no fibre at the address?

Other options are an xDSL or FWA connection, or mobile internet according to 4G and 5G coverage. ČTÚ recommends also looking at the data for the surrounding area (statistical unit or municipality), which may point to providers operating nearby.

How can I check the actual speed?

It can be measured with the ČTÚ-NetTest tool. Its certified measurement can also be used to file a complaint about a fixed internet service. Fibre at the address is one of the inputs from which the location analysis describes connectivity at the site.