The initiative aims to modernize and harmonize existing rules and create the right conditions for operators to invest in next-generation fiber and mobile networks across the European Union.
At the core of the Digital Networks Act is the recognition that advanced connectivity is no longer optional. High-performance networks are the backbone of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data-driven services.
Making these capabilities accessible to citizens and businesses in all member states is considered essential to strengthening Europe’s competitiveness on the world stage.
Hena Virkunen, Executive Vice President for Technology Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, explains:
“High-performing and resilient digital infrastructure is essential to strengthening Europe’s leadership in innovation, competitiveness and digital sovereignty.
“With advanced and easily accessible connectivity, startups will be able to harness the potential of AI to help doctors treat patients quickly and safely from remote locations.
“Our goal is a fair, trustworthy, rules-based digital environment where new technology is readily available, affordable, and benefits people.”
Building a true single market for connectivity
One of the central goals of the Digital Networks Act is to deepen the EU single market for digital connectivity.
Currently, fragmented national regulations can make it costly and complex for carriers to expand beyond their home countries. The European Commission’s proposals address this issue by streamlining regulatory requirements and reducing barriers to cross-border operations.
Under the new framework, companies will only need to register in one member state to provide services across the EU, greatly simplifying expansion.
The Digital Networks Act also aims to support the development of pan-European satellite communications services by moving spectrum licensing from a national to an EU-level approach. The transition is aimed at driving greater scale, innovation and consistency across the bloc.
Regulatory predictability is another key focus. Longer spectrum licenses combined with automatic renewal as the default option are designed to give carriers greater confidence to make long-term investments.
The proposal also promotes more efficient use of spectrum by encouraging sharing arrangements where frequencies are underutilized.
Accelerate your transition to advanced networks
The Digital Networks Act recognizes that traditional copper networks are no longer fit for purpose in a digital-first economy.
To address this, the proposal introduces a mandatory national transition plan to phase out copper infrastructure and guide the transition to advanced fiber and mobile networks between 2030 and 2035.
Member states have until 2029 to submit their transition strategies. These plans must balance innovation and consumer protection, ensuring that users are notified of network changes well in advance and that continuity of service is maintained throughout the transition period.
Driving investment through simplification
Another pillar of the Digital Networks Act is regulatory simplification. By reducing administrative and reporting obligations, the Commission aims to free up resources for carriers to devote to network deployment and innovation.
The updated framework also provides greater flexibility for business-to-business arrangements, while maintaining strong safeguards for consumers.
This streamlined approach aims to make Europe a more attractive environment for digital investment as global capital competition intensifies.
Security, resiliency and open internet principles
In response to growing concerns about cyber threats, natural disasters, and geopolitical risks, the Digital Networks Act emphasizes secure and resilient connectivity.
An EU-level preparedness plan is being introduced to improve coordination during crises and reduce dependencies within the connectivity ecosystem. Security and resiliency criteria also play a key role in selecting satellite communications solutions across Europe.
Importantly, the proposal reaffirms the EU’s commitment to net neutrality. The Digital Networks Act increases legal clarity for innovative services while upholding the principles of an open internet.
Voluntary cooperation mechanisms are also envisioned to improve efficiency in areas such as traffic management and IP interconnectivity.
The Digital Networks Act will now be debated in the European Parliament and Council, setting the stage for ground-breaking reforms that could redefine the way Europe connects, competes and innovates in the digital age.
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