Significant progress was made in solving this problem last year, when President Zelenskyi signed a decree requiring all operators to do so. Ensuring that their networks operate uninterruptedly without electricity for at least 72 hours. In addition, the State Special Communications Service has established requirements for the stability of networks that must be met by September 1, 2023.

Yuriy Matsyk, director of the fixed internet development department at the Ministry of Digital Transformation, told Liga Tech about the progress made in meeting these requirements.

He said that mainline operators are working meticulously to meet this need and distribution networks are also taking important steps in this direction.

Matsyk noted that about half of subscribers would be able to access the fixed network during fan outages. Those using passive optical network (PON) technology will have the advantage of uninterrupted service during power outages. Major market players are committed to supporting this power outage-resistant technology.

However, according to the latest data, only 37% of subscribers The bulk of fixed communications in Ukraine is currently connected to PON-based Internet networks that can withstand long interruptions in power supply. This percentage is the national average and shows that more efforts are needed to improve the resilience of internet services across the country.

Yuriy Matsyk emphasized the importance of ensuring that communication is not interrupted during power outages during the winter months.

It is vital that our citizens have access to reliable internet, especially in harsh weather conditions. The commitment of major providers to use blackout-resistant technologies is a positive step in this direction.

As the winter season approaches, question marks continue about the reliability of internet services in case of possible power outages. The government is taking measures to solve this problem, but only the level of preparedness of Internet providers and subscribers can determine the degree of communication support in harsh winter conditions.