fixedline

Fixed-line, in telecommunications, refers to services delivered to a specific location using physical wires or cables rather than wireless transmission. In telephony, fixed-line most commonly means landline service connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) at a fixed address. These services typically provide voice, data, and sometimes video, and are commonly offered as bundles with broadband.

Fixed-line networks originated in the 19th century and evolved with automatic switching and copper subscriber lines. For much of the 20th century, copper twisted-pair connections carried analog voice as POTS and, in some cases, early digital services like ISDN. Today, fixed-line may use copper for DSL data or fiber optics for high-capacity connections to the premises (FTTP/FTTB), with voice carried over PSTN, VoIP, or integrated IP-based services.

A fixed-line connection typically terminates at a network interface device at the premises and links to a local exchange via a copper pair or fiber. Traditional landlines can draw power from the network, allowing operation during power outages, while VoIP and other fixed broadband voice services depend on local power and internet connectivity.

In many markets, fixed-line usage has declined as mobile and broadband-based voice services expand, but it remains valued for stable voice quality, reliability, and its role in business communications and emergency services. Regulatory frameworks often address universal service, numbering, and interconnection with other networks.