Are multiple handsets phones useable with full fibre?

[Rosgrana]

I currently have handsets in various rooms, plugged into wall phone sockets. I understand these sockets will stop working once I have fibre connected, and assumed I could buy a multi-handset phone, and plug the base unit into the router, and have the other handsets plugged into electric sockets only, in other rooms. Went on the Vodafone chat to ask exactly what specs I'd need for this to work, and was told that NO multi-handset phone will work with fibre, they can ONLY be used on copper connections.

Is this correct? I'm new to fibre, but that seems like quite a downgrade!

[Ripshod]

I don't know who gave you that bunch of bull. The fact is you can have as many DECT handsets as you want, only the base unit needs connecting to the router.

There's also a way to use your existing wiring but I'm not up to date on that.

@Jayach? 

[Rosgrana]

Thanks! It did seem… somewhat unlikely, which is why I tried here as a check! Do I need anything special, or will any DECT phone do the job?

[Ripshod]

Any basic DECT will do. Avoid the BT ones that have special features - the features won't work and may interfere with normal operation.

It's advantageous to get one with an answerphone if you need that kind of service. 

[Jayach]

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@Ripshod wrote:

There's also a way to use your existing wiring but I'm not up to date on that.

@Jayach? 

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Yes, it's known as VRI (Voice re-injection) and basically means taking the pair of wires from the TEL socket and connecting them to the (now redundant, if on full fibre) extension wiring.

It's a very simple job to do, and if you google it there is plenty of information, and some YouTube videos also.

It's a bit more complicated if using VoIP on FTTC because the master socket needs to stay connected to the incoming line, but still not difficult.

It means you can continue to use your existing extension sockets and analog phones, but yes, DECT is probably a better way to go.