Partners

Introducing SoTAP: the simple way to keep customers connected until fibre arrives

Zen Oct 6 2025 3 minutes

The UK’s all-digital future is almost here. With the PSTN switch off on the horizon and ADSL services being withdrawn, many customers are upgrading to full fibre or SoGEA.

But there are still areas where neither of these services is yet available, raising the question of just how to keep those users connected in the meantime.

Thankfully, there’s a solution. And it’s here.

What is SoTAP?

SoTAP (or Single Order Transitional Access Product to give it the name that no-one’s ever likely to use) is broadband delivered over existing copper lines, without the need for a traditional phone service. It provides customers in non-fibre areas with an ADSL-equivalent connection while the UK’s fibre rollout continues.

Given that SoTAP will only be made available where SoGEA or full fibre aren’t, it really is a lifeline for its users, ensuring they won’t lose service as legacy options disappear.

And, by the way, to cover the what/why question. Yes, copper services are being retired, but the infrastructure will remain in place for now – which provides opportunity for SoTAP to use those existing copper wires for data only services.

With download speeds of up to 24 Mbps and uploads up to 2 Mbps, SoTAP isn’t designed to rival fibre. But it delivers more than enough for the essentials – from cloud-based business apps and point-of-sale systems to home working, video calls, streaming and online learning. In short, it’s a vital safety net that keeps people online until faster options arrive.

Why SoTAP matters for partners

SoTAP makes sure your customers don’t get left behind. It’s straightforward, cost-effective and gives you the tools to:

Keep customers online – maintain service for those without a SoGEA/FTTP option once ADSL is gone.
Smooth the transition – simple migration from legacy broadband with minimal disruption.
Enable digital voice – supports IP-based voice services, so customers can stay connected in every sense.
Stay flexible – long-term or rolling monthly contracts and a choice of Layer 2 or Layer 3 mean you can shape services around your customers’ needs and your business model.

By adding SoTAP to your portfolio, you can continue to serve the full market – even customers in harder-to-reach areas. It helps you protect existing relationships, win new ones, and demonstrate that you’re prepared for every scenario.

The Zen difference

Choosing Zen for SoTAP broadband means choosing a partner that’s on your side. Just like with all your other Zen services, you’ll enjoy:

Award-winning service – our UK-based support team and your dedicated partner experience manager are here to help.
Independent and sustainable – we’re a certified B Corp, carbon neutral and proudly independent.
Partnerships built to last – fair terms, transparent pricing, convenient provisioning, and a long-term approach that puts your success first.

And because SoTAP mirrors the ordering and support processes of SoGEA, it’s easy to fit into your workflow. You can order through the Fibre Hub or your Partner Portal using the same steps you’re already familiar with, making it quick and easy to start offering the service.