July 9, 2007

Verizon FiOS Installation Cuts Off Copper Lines

Warning if you are getting Verizon's new FiOS service: Verizon installers are removing you're homes copper connections. An AP article explains:

Verizon's installer — without warning, Powderly says — removed the copper wires that used to carry his phone calls. For most of the world, copper still links homes and businesses, as it has for a century.

Verizon's new high-bandwidth fiber lines are fully capable of carrying not only calls but also Internet data and television with room to grow. But once the copper is pulled, it's difficult to switch back to the traditional phone system or less expensive Digital Subscriber Line service. And Verizon is not required, in most instances, to lease fiber to rival phone companies, as it is with the copper infrastructure.

Verizon is up to their old tricks again. So just beware if you are getting FiOS, you're pretty much permanently switching to Verizon.

Posted by Greg at July 9, 2007 11:06 AM