Copper network's theoretical speed

Everyone in the UK could theoretically get 50Mbit/s internet through the existing copper network, according to Ofcom.

The communications watchdog believes that capacities should be able to improve beyond their existing capabilities - in an idealised environment.

It was found that by hosting the upstream modem in the exchange then houses within two kilometres of it - about 18 per cent of the total number of households - could receive data rates over 50Mbit/s.

However, if it was moved into the street cabinet, closer to the customer premises, then 100 per cent of households would be within two kilometres and so would get the high speed connection.

But, Ofcom warns: "These results are theoretical and do not reflect what could be achieved in practice."

This is because the data rates experienced by end-users also depend upon other factors, for instance the wiring in an end-user's home.

"Nevertheless, the real value of this study is to suggest an upper limit, given all technical progress possible, of 50Mbit/s, with fibre to the cabinet," Ofcom concluded.