Some people will be able to order high-speed connections by the end of the year, under the first phase of National Broadband Plan.
According to the latest progress update, the fibre network is expected to be 'live' in Cork and possibly Galway in December.
The first orders can then be placed in those areas, according to freedom of information files.
Former communications minister Denis Naughten says very good progress is being made on the €3 billion project.
"It's a head of expectation, because the concern was that orders wouldn't be able to be put in until the new year.
"It's good that they're now making progress on these locations.
"It will come as welcome relief to many communities and families that they will actually see that fibre will be delivered to their door by the end of the year."
