It’s often advisable to connect your networking devices to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), but does every household and router need to incur that additional cost?
Not necessarily. In fact, many users can effectively use a budget power bank without the need for a more expensive UPS, ensuring their internet connection remains stable during a power outage. Here’s how this approach works.
Your Router’s Power Needs Aren’t That High
Maintaining Wi-Fi Doesn’t Drain Much Power
While connecting your networking equipment to a UPS is generally a smart move—especially for those operating a home server—it’s important to note that most routers don’t consume a significant amount of energy. For instance, Amazon’s eero routers like the eero 6+ typically use around 4.5W, while the eero 7 and eero 7 Pro use about 7W. This is considerably less than many other household electronics.
Given these low power requirements, a simple power bank can sustain your router during a blackout instead of investing in an expensive UPS. A typical battery designed for charging smartphones or tablets at 30-45W can handle the load. However, this may not hold true for high-powered routers, particularly those designed for gaming and priced at $600 or more.
Make sure the power bank can meet your router’s specific voltage and current specifications; this isn’t universally applicable for all routers. With many modern routers using USB-C for power, connecting a power bank becomes straightforward. If your router lacks USB-C, additional adapters for USB PD to DC barrel jack might be necessary.
A $25 Power Bank is Sufficient
No Need for High-End Specs
You don’t have to invest in an expensive device to maintain your router’s power. Many affordable power banks will suffice. For example, a basic INIU 45W power bank, costing under $25, can deliver ample power over USB-C. This is clearly above what devices like the eero 6+ or eero 7 typically demand.
In fact, routers generally don’t require anywhere near 45W regularly, making those extra power reserves quite beneficial. With various 30W power banks also being options, it’s advisable to check the exact specifications based on your router’s requirements.
A 10,000mAh Battery Can Power Your Wi-Fi for Hours
Low Power Consumption Extends Battery Life
If the capacity of a 10,000mAh power bank sounds small, it’s worth noting that with a router’s minimal power draw, that capacity can last quite a while. Assuming your router pulls between 4W to 7W, a 10,000mAh lithium battery—holding approximately 37Wh of energy—should theoretically sustain operation for over eight hours, although real-world conditions may yield slightly lower runtimes.
For those using a mesh Wi-Fi system, a power bank can also be a useful tool to temporarily expand coverage outdoors. By plugging a node into the power bank and placing it outside, you can enhance your Wi-Fi reach.
Ensure Your Power Bank Meets the Correct USB-C Standards
Wattage Alone is Not Enough
Simply knowing the wattage of a power bank is insufficient for ensuring compatibility with your router. USB-C connections carry more complexity; once you confirm the power bank’s wattage, ensure it aligns with the voltage and current standards your router requires through USB Power Delivery (PD). For example, an eero’s specific adapter supports a voltage of 5V/3A or 9V/3A, which aligns with the INIU power bank’s capabilities.
Keep in mind that a 30W or 45W power bank may not function properly if it doesn’t match the required USB-C PD profile, leading to unpredictable results or failure to power the router altogether.
Your Modem or ONT Might Need Power Too
Wi-Fi Functioning Doesn’t Equate to Internet Access
While a power bank can keep your router running during outages, it’s vital to check if other devices, such as a modem or optical network terminal (ONT), also require power. Without powering every component in the network pathway, simply activating the router won’t guarantee internet access.
To avoid surprises, inspect your entire network setup before power interruptions occur to identify any additional devices that may need power and ensure they do not have high energy demands.
This Isn’t a UPS, But It’s Adequate
A standard power bank shouldn’t be mistaken for a UPS, but it can play a crucial role in an emergency. You might need to manually connect the router to the power bank during an outage, but this minor inconvenience is preferable to waiting for power restoration.
