A recent survey by Forsa, commissioned by the Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband and reported by the Funke-Medien group’s free weekend editions, found that 61 % of households that do not yet have a fibre‑optic contract are not interested in switching.
Three‑quarters (74 %) of respondents say their current internet service is sufficient. Still, 28 % cite the cost of a fibre contract as a deterrent, 27 % mention the connection fee, and a fifth (20 %) admit they lack sufficient knowledge about fibre‑optic technology.
Among the 29 % of households that already have a fibre‑optic contract, more than a quarter (27 %) reported problems. Issues included delays in the roll‑out, difficulties with activating the line, and construction damage that hindered the upgrade. Consumer centres receive thousands of complaints each year regarding fibre‑optic internet access.
Lina Ehrig, head of Digital and Media at the Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband, said: “Reliable and affordable internet is more important than ever, and in the long run only fibre can meet this need. However, high costs, roll‑out problems, and opaque terms dissuade people from switching”.
The survey, conducted from 9 to 11 March 2026, included 1,001 adults aged 18 and over who either decide or co‑decide on the household’s internet provider.
