Telecommunications services provider Telkom has announced what it describes as a one-of-a-kind fibre-access trial for the benefit of DSL customers across South Africa.

The service provider says DSL customers within its fibre footprint will be given the opportunity to upgrade their copper-based connectivity, to the more advanced fibre network.

"These customers will also have the opportunity to test Telkom's Boltspeed 10 Mbps and 20 Mbps fibre products, for free, for two months. Telkom is offering these DSL customers the option to migrate from their copper-based DSL service, to an equivalent fibre-based service, in a phased approach. The trial offer starts on 2 February 2016."

In a statement Telkom added that the new offer means that DSL customers, who are currently on 2 Mbps, 4 Mbps and 8 Mbps DSL products, can now move across to the more stable and reliable fibre network at no additional charge.

During the two month trial, those customers will also be able to test the 10 Mbps and 20 Mbps line options and subsequently decide which package to use, according to Telkom.

Telkom Consumer MD, Attila Vitai says, "This unique trial offer is a win-win for customers in that we will migrate them to our Telkom fibre, at no additional cost."

Vitai confirmed that installation teams are already working to secure installations within seven-to-ten days from order. "Fibre is the next evolution of fixed line broadband connectivity and we want our customers to enjoy the best technology experience we can offer. Not only does fibre offer faster speeds, but it is less susceptible to electronic interference, lightning and water damage than the copper network," he added.

It has also emerged from Telkom's announcement that customers will not be charged any installation free where like-for-like installation is possible.

Customers will be able to upgrade to the 10 Mbps or 20 Mbps options or, they can return to their original 2 Mbps, 4 Mbps and 8 Mbps speeds after the two month trial even though their line will permanently have been upgraded to fibre.