The optical fiber-based communication system comprises a distribution optical fiber that extends proximately to a plurality of end users, and tap-off modules coupled to the distribution optical fiber at intervals along its length. Each of the tap-off modules includes a port in optical communication with the distribution optical fiber. The optical fiber-based communication system additionally comprises a branch optical fiber connected to the port of each of at least some of the tap-off modules and that extends to a corresponding one of the end users.