According to the EU open internet rules, internet service providers should enable end users to freely choose their router or modem.

A provider can still set requirements on the equipment used in the customer’s premises, if that equipment forms part of this provider’s network. This depends on how the national regulatory authority (NRA) has defined the network termination point.

Cullen International’s new research shows that NRAs clearly defined the network termination point in five of the 14 European countries studied.

In four countries, the NTP definition enables end users to freely choose both modem and router broadband equipment. Some exceptions may apply for fibre networks. In one other country, it only enables the free choice of modem, but not router.

Additionally, in seven of the countries studied, specific requirements to facilitate the free choice of router or modem apply.

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