Loadshedding often causes internet interruptions because routers and fiber ONT devices require electricity to operate. When the power goes off, both devices usually shut down immediately, cutting off your WiFi connection.
Fortunately, there are several ways to keep your internet running during loadshedding.
In this guide we explain the most common backup solutions used in South Africa and how they work.
Why WiFi Turns Off During Loadshedding
Most home internet setups rely on two devices:
Fiber ONT (optical network terminal)
WiFi router
Both require electricity to operate. When loadshedding begins, these devices stop working unless they are connected to a backup power source.
You can learn more in our guide explaining why WiFi turns off during loadshedding even when using a UPS.
Option 1: Mini UPS for Router
The most popular solution is a mini UPS designed for routers and fiber equipment.
These small battery backup units automatically supply power when loadshedding begins.
Advantages:
automatic power switching
simple installation
reliable runtime
Many mini UPS devices can keep your internet running for 4 to 6 hours depending on the battery size.
You can see recommended models in our guide to the Best Mini UPS for WiFi Routers in South Africa.
Option 2: Power Banks
Some people use large power banks with adapter cables to power routers.
This method can work in some cases, but it usually requires additional cables and manual setup.
Power banks also tend to provide shorter runtime compared to dedicated mini UPS devices.
Option 3: Inverter Systems
Households with larger backup power systems may use an inverter and battery setup.
These systems can power:
routers
fiber equipment
lights
laptops
However, inverter systems are typically more expensive and are designed for powering multiple appliances.
Option 4: Portable Power Stations
Portable power stations are larger battery devices that can power several appliances at once.
They can easily keep routers and internet equipment running during loadshedding but are usually more expensive than mini UPS devices.
Which Option Is Best?
For most households in South Africa, the simplest solution is a mini UPS designed for routers.
These devices are affordable, easy to install, and can provide several hours of backup power during loadshedding.
Larger backup systems such as inverters or portable power stations are better suited for powering multiple appliances.
Final Verdict
Keeping your WiFi running during loadshedding is possible with the right backup power solution.
Mini UPS devices remain the most practical option for powering routers and fiber equipment because they are simple to install and designed specifically for networking devices.
For households that require longer backup power or want to run additional appliances, inverter systems or portable power stations may be worth considering.
Explore More Mini UPS Guides
If you’re looking for the best router backup power solutions, you may also find these guides helpful:
Loadshedding can interrupt your internet connection if your router and fiber ONT lose power. Many South African households are now using backup power solutions such as mini UPS devices or power banks to keep their WiFi running during outages.
However, these two options work very differently.
In this guide we compare mini UPS devices and power banks to help you understand:
Which option works best for a WiFi router
How long each solution can power your internet
Which one is more reliable during loadshedding
What Is a Mini UPS?
A mini UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a small battery backup device designed specifically for networking equipment such as
WiFi routers
fibre ONT boxes
small security cameras
Mini UPS devices stay connected to your router all the time. When the electricity goes off, the battery automatically starts powering your equipment without interruption.
Most mini UPS units can power a router and fiber ONT for 4–6 hours depending on the battery capacity.
You can see some examples in our guide to the Best Mini UPS for WiFi Routers in South Africa.
What Is a Power Bank?
A power bank is a portable battery usually designed for charging phones and small electronics through USB.
Some people try to use power banks to power WiFi routers using the following:
USB to DC cables
voltage converters
While this can sometimes work, power banks are not designed specifically for routers, which can make them less reliable.
Key Differences Between Mini UPS and Power Bank
Feature
Mini UPS
Power Bank
Designed for routers
Yes
No
Automatic power switching
Yes
No
Continuous connection
Yes
No
Typical runtime
4–6 hours
1–3 hours
Ease of use
Very easy
Requires cables
Mini UPS devices are usually the simplest and most reliable solution for keeping WiFi online during loadshedding.
Which One Keeps WiFi Running Longer?
Mini UPS units generally provide longer runtime because they are built specifically to power networking equipment.
Power banks can sometimes run routers, but they often provide shorter runtime and may require additional cables or adapters.
If you’re wondering how long a UPS can power your router, see our guide on How Long a Mini UPS Lasts During Loadshedding.
Which Option Is Easier to Use?
Mini UPS devices are typically easier to set up.
Installation usually involves the following:
Connecting the UPS to a power outlet
Plugging your router and fibre ONT into the UPS
Once connected, the system works automatically.
Power banks usually require extra cables or manual connection, which makes them less convenient during sudden power outages.
When a Power Bank Might Work
A power bank may still be useful if:
you already own a large power bank
your router supports USB power input
you have the correct adapter cables
However, most households find that a mini UPS is the more reliable solution.
Final Verdict
Both mini-UPS devices and power banks can provide backup power for networking equipment during loadshedding.
However, mini UPS units are specifically designed for routers and fiber ONT devices, making them the simplest and most reliable solution for keeping WiFi online.
Power banks can sometimes work as an alternative, but they usually require extra cables and may not provide the same runtime or convenience.
For most South African households, a mini UPS is the better choice for uninterrupted internet during loadshedding.
Explore More Mini UPS Guides
If you’re planning to buy a backup power solution for your router, you may also find these guides helpful:
Many South Africans install a mini UPS during loadshedding expecting their internet to stay online—but sometimes the WiFi still turns off.
This is frustrating, especially if you bought the UPS specifically to avoid downtime.
The issue is usually not the fiber provider. It is almost always caused by incorrect setup, voltage mismatch, or incomplete power coverage inside the home.
In this guide, we explain why your WiFi may still go down during loadshedding and how to fix it.
You Are Not Powering the Fibre ONT
The most common mistake is powering only the router.
If the fiber ONT (the small wall-mounted box) is off, your internet connection will drop even if the router lights are still on.
Both devices must be connected to the mini UPS.
Wrong Voltage Output
If your router requires 12V and your UPS is set to 9V, it may switch on briefly and then shut down.
Always check the power adapter label:
Output: 12V — 1A or Output: 9V — 1A
Voltage must match exactly.
Your UPS Battery Is Too Small
If your UPS only lasts 45–60 minutes, it may not have enough battery capacity for your router and ONT combined.
Higher-performance routers use more power and drain small UPS units quickly.
The UPS Was Not Fully Charged
Mini UPS devices need time to recharge between outages.
If loadshedding happens twice in one day, the battery may not have recharged fully.
You Are Powering Too Many Devices
Some people connect:
• Router • ONT • TV box • CCTV system
This dramatically reduces runtime.
Mini UPS units are designed only for networking equipment.
How to Fix the Problem
Check router voltage
Confirm ONT is connected
Ensure correct output cable
Upgrade to larger capacity if needed
If your UPS is correctly installed and properly sized, your WiFi should remain stable during normal Stage 4 loadshedding.
Loadshedding has made reliable internet almost essential in South Africa. Many households have fiber installed, but during power cuts the WiFi immediately switches off—even though laptops and phones still have battery.
That is why mini UPS devices have become extremely popular. They are small battery backup units designed specifically to keep your router and fiber ONT powered when Eskom electricity goes off.
However, the biggest question people ask before buying one is simple:
How long will a mini UPS actually keep my WiFi running?
The answer is not the same for everyone. Runtime depends on your router’s power usage, the fiber ONT, and the battery size of the UPS itself. In this guide, we explain the real runtime you can expect in South African loadshedding conditions.
What a Mini UPS Actually Powers
A mini UPS does not power your whole house. It is designed only for low-power network devices.
Normally it powers:
• WiFi Router • Fibre ONT (the small fibre box on the wall) • Sometimes a mesh WiFi node
It does NOT power: • TVs • PCs • Gaming consoles • Microwaves
This is important because runtime depends on how many devices you connect.
Typical Power Usage of Fibre Internet Equipment
Most people don’t realize how little electricity their internet equipment uses.
Typical South African fiber setup:
Device
Average Power Use
Fibre ONT
6W – 12W
WiFi Router
8W–18W
Total
14W – 30W
This low usage is exactly why a mini UPS works so well during loadshedding.
How Mini UPS Battery Size Affects Runtime
The most important number on a UPS is mAh (milliamp-hours). This is the battery capacity.
General guideline:
UPS Size
Expected Runtime
8 800 mAh
2–3 hours
10 400 mAh
3–4 hours
15 600 mAh
4–6 hours
20 000 mAh+
6–10 hours
In Stage 4 loadshedding (2-hour outage), almost any decent mini UPS will keep your WiFi on the entire time.
Stage 6 (4-hour outage) requires a higher capacity model.
Real South African Runtime Example
Let’s use a normal home fiber setup:
• 12W router • 8W fibre ONT Total usage = 20W
A 15 600 mAh mini UPS typically runs this setup for about 5 hours.
That means: Stage 2 ✔ Stage 4 ✔ Stage 6 ✔ (most of the time)
This is why mini UPS units are one of the most cost-effective loadshedding solutions in South Africa.
Why Some People Get Only 1 Hour
If your UPS only lasts 1 hour, it is almost always one of these:
You did not connect the fibre ONT (internet still dies)
Wrong voltage cable used
Cheap UPS with fake battery capacity
Too many devices connected (like a TV box)
Mini UPS devices are built specifically for networking equipment—not entertainment systems.
How to Extend Mini UPS Runtime
You can significantly increase runtime by:
• Turning off unused mesh nodes • Disconnecting USB charging ports • Using a low-power router • Charging the UPS fully between outages
Also remember: after multiple loadshedding cycles in one day, runtime becomes shorter because the battery cannot fully recharge.
Can a mini UPS last 4 hours? Yes, but only higher capacity models (around 15 600 mAh or larger). Smaller units may only last 2–3 hours.
Does a mini UPS use a lot of electricity? No. They charge slowly and use less power than most household appliances.
Will a mini UPS damage my router? No. They are specifically designed for routers and provide stable voltage.
Do I need to power the fiber ONT too? Yes. If the ONT is off, your internet will not work even if the router stays on.
Final thought
For most South African households, a mini UPS is the simplest and cheapest way to keep internet working during loadshedding. The actual runtime depends mainly on battery capacity and how many devices you connect, but a good quality unit can easily cover typical Stage 4 outages and often most Stage 6 schedules as well.
South Africa’s loadshedding makes one problem immediately obvious—when the power goes off, your internet goes off too.
For many households, losing WiFi is actually worse than losing lights. Work stops, meetings disconnect, TV streaming ends, and even security cameras stop recording. The good news is you do NOT need a generator or expensive inverter system just to keep your router online.
A mini UPS (uninterruptible power supply) is a small battery backup designed specifically for routers and fiber ONTs. It automatically switches on when electricity cuts and keeps your internet running without you doing anything.
In this guide, we explain which UPS units actually work in South Africa, how long they last during loadshedding, and which one is worth buying.
What is a mini UPS, and how does it work?
A mini UPS is essentially a rechargeable battery pack that sits between your wall plug and your internet equipment. Under normal conditions, it charges itself while powering your router.
The moment Eskom power fails, the device instantly switches to battery power—usually within milliseconds—so your router does not reboot and your fiber connection stays active.
Most homes actually have two devices that need backup power:
The WiFi router
The fibre ONT box (the small box installed by your fibre provider)
If the ONT switches off, your internet dies even if your router stays on. A proper mini UPS powers both devices at the same time.
This is why normal power banks do not work properly—they cannot supply stable continuous power like a UPS can.
How long can a UPS keep your internet on during loadshedding?
This depends on three things:
Battery capacity (measured in mAh or Wh)
Router power usage
Whether it powers the ONT as well
Most fiber routers in South Africa use only 8W to 12W of electricity, which is very low. Because of this, even a small UPS can keep your internet online for 3 to 6 hours.
Typical real-world backup times:
• Small mini UPS (10,000 mAh) → 2–3 hours • Medium UPS (15,000–20,000 mAh) → 4–6 hours • Large mini UPS (25,000 mAh+) → 6–10 hours
This is enough to survive most Stage 2–4 loadshedding cycles.
What to check before buying a Mini UPS in South Africa
Many people buy the wrong UPS and then think UPS devices don’t work. The problem is not the idea—it’s compatibility.
Before you buy a UPS, you must check these 4 things.
1) Voltage (MOST IMPORTANT)
Routers and ONT boxes usually run on 12V or 9V.
If the UPS output voltage does not match your router, it will not power on—or worse, it can damage the device.
Always look at the sticker underneath your router or ONT. You will see something like
Output: 12V—1A
Your UPS must match that voltage.
Good mini UPS units in South Africa normally support:
9V
12V
sometimes 5V USB
Avoid units that only have USB ports—those are power banks, not UPS systems.
2) Number of ports
You need at least 2 DC output ports because loadshedding affects:
• The router • The fibre ONT
Many cheap UPS devices only power the router—then your internet still goes off because the ONT has no power.
This is the number one mistake buyers make.
3) Battery capacity
Capacity determines how long your internet stays on.
Rough guide:
8,000–10,000 mAh → short outages only
15,000–20,000 mAh → ideal for most homes
20,000 mAh+ → best for heavy loadshedding
In South Africa, a 20,000 mAh unit is usually the sweet spot.
4) Automatic switching
A real UPS switches automatically when power cuts.
You should not have to press a button during loadshedding.
If the product description says:
“Manual power on”
Avoid it—it defeats the purpose of a UPS.
Mini UPS vs Generator vs Inverter for WiFi During Loadshedding
Feature
Mini UPS
Power Inverter + Battery
Petrol Generator
Internet stays on instantly
Yes
Yes
No (must start it)
Noise
Silent
Silent
Very loud
Setup difficulty
Plug & play
Medium installation
High
Cost
Low
Medium/High
Medium
Running cost
None
Very low
Fuel required
Works at night
Yes
Yes
Not practical
Powers TV/PC
No
Yes
Yes
Best use
Router + Fibre ONT
Whole room backup
Whole-house emergency
For most South African households, a mini UPS is the easiest and most affordable solution to keep internet working during loadshedding. Inverters and generators can power more appliances, but they are significantly more expensive and require installation or fuel. A UPS is designed specifically for networking equipment and works automatically when the power cuts.
How long will a mini UPS power your router?
Runtime depends on two things: the router power usage and the UPS battery size.
Typical fiber setup:
Fibre ONT: ±8–12W
WiFi Router: ±6–10W
Total load ≈ 15–20 watts.
Estimated runtime:
UPS Capacity
Expected Runtime
8,800 mAh
2–3 hours
10,400 mAh
3–4 hours
20,000 mAh
5–8 hours
This means a properly sized mini UPS can easily cover Stage 2 and Stage 4 loadshedding in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a mini UPS run both my router and fiber box (ONT)?
Yes. Most fiber installations in South Africa have two devices: the fiber ONT and the WiFi router. A properly sized mini UPS is designed specifically for this setup and can power both at the same time. You simply connect both devices to the UPS using the provided DC cables.
How many hours will a mini UPS last during loadshedding?
On average, a standard 10,000 mAh mini UPS will run a router and fiber ONT for around 3–4 hours. Larger models can last up to 6–8 hours depending on the power usage of your router.
Does a UPS damage a router?
No. A mini UPS actually protects your router. It supplies stable voltage and prevents damage caused by sudden power cuts and surges when electricity returns after loadshedding.
Can I use a computer UPS instead?
You can, but it is not ideal. Traditional computer UPS units are designed for PCs and alarms. They are bulky, noisy, and inefficient for routers. A mini DC UPS is quieter, uses less power, and lasts longer during outages.
Do I need an electrician to install a mini UPS?
No. A mini UPS is plug-and-play. You unplug your router power cable, connect it to the UPS, and then plug the UPS into the wall. Setup takes less than 5 minutes.
Will a mini UPS recharge between loadshedding stages?
Yes. Most units recharge within 2–3 hours. This is fast enough to recharge between normal South African loadshedding cycles.
Final Verdict—Is a Mini UPS Worth It?
For most South African households, a mini UPS is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to deal with loadshedding. Instead of installing an expensive inverter or running a noisy generator, a small backup battery can keep your internet connection active automatically whenever the power cuts.
Because routers and fiber ONTs use very little electricity, a properly sized UPS can keep you online for several hours, making it ideal for remote work, online classes, streaming, and security cameras. The one-off cost is low, there is no fuel required, and installation takes only a few minutes.
If staying connected during loadshedding is important to you, a mini UPS is not just a convenience—it is one of the most practical backup solutions you can buy.
Loadshedding has made reliable internet in South Africa a daily challenge. The moment the power goes off, fiber routers and ONT boxes shut down immediately, cutting off work calls, online classes, streaming, and even security cameras.
The problem is that many UPS units sold online are incompatible with South African fiber setups or do not last long enough to survive loadshedding stages. In this guide, we compare the best mini UPS devices available and explain which ones are actually worth buying.
Quick Comparison of the Best Mini UPS Units
UPS Model
What It Powers
Typical Runtime
Biggest Advantage
Who Should Buy It
Gizzu Mini DC UPS (36W)
Router + Fiber ONT
4–6 hours
Reliable all-round compatibility
Most households
UltraLAN Micro UPS
Router + Fiber ONT
3–5 hours
Very stable fiber reconnection
Fiber installations & offices
Volkano Mini UPS – Best Long Runtime
Router + Fiber ONT
6–8 hours
Longest backup time
Work-from-home users
Generic DC Mini UPS (Entry-Level)
Router + Fiber ONT
2–3 hours
Lowest price
Basic internet backup
Entry-level mini UPS units are often sold under different brand names in South Africa, but many share similar internal hardware. They are affordable and suitable for short outages, although runtime and build quality can vary.
Gizzu Mini DC UPS (36W) – Best Overall Choice
The Gizzu Mini DC UPS is one of the most commonly used router backup devices in South Africa and is widely compatible with fiber installations. It supports both 9V and 12V outputs, allowing it to power the fiber ONT and the WiFi router at the same time.
The device automatically switches to battery power when electricity fails, so your internet connection usually stays active without rebooting. For most households, it provides enough backup time to cover a normal loadshedding block depending on the power usage of the router.
Key Features
Powers router and fiber ONT simultaneously
Automatic switchover during outages
Compatible with most ISPs
Compact and easy to install
Pros
Reliable and widely available
Good balance between runtime and price
Suitable for most homes
Cons
Not the longest runtime during extended Stage 6 loadshedding
UltraLAN Micro UPS – Best for Fiber Stability
The UltraLAN Micro UPS is often recommended by fiber installers because of its stable voltage output. A stable power supply helps prevent the ONT from restarting when power returns, which can shorten reconnection time.
It is designed specifically for networking equipment and works well in homes where the fiber connection normally takes long to reconnect after loadshedding. While the runtime is moderate, its reliability makes it a good choice for users who depend on a stable connection for work or online meetings.
Key Features
Stable output designed for fiber equipment
Supports router and ONT
Fast automatic switching
Pros
Reliable connection stability
Good for work-from-home setups
Prevents repeated router restarts
Cons
Runtime slightly shorter than high-capacity units
Volkano Mini UPS (Router & Fiber Backup) – Best Long Runtime
The Volkano Mini UPS is intended for users who need longer backup time than basic entry-level router UPS devices. While mini UPS units all operate on similar principles, models with larger internal batteries generally provide extended runtime when powering a fiber ONT and WiFi router.
In practical home use, runtime depends heavily on the router’s power consumption. Low-power fiber routers can remain online for several hours, while high-performance routers will reduce the backup time. Because of this, a higher-capacity mini UPS can be helpful during repeated loadshedding periods, especially for work-from-home users.
Key Features
Powers router and fiber ONT simultaneously
Automatic switchover during outages
Designed for continuous internet connectivity
Pros
Typically longer runtime than basic units
Suitable for repeated outages
Good for remote work and online meetings
Cons
Still limited compared to a full inverter system
Recharge time required between outages
Generic DC Mini UPS – Best Budget Option
Entry-level mini UPS units are sold under various brand names in South Africa but generally use similar internal hardware. They are designed to power a router and fiber ONT for short outages at a lower cost.
They are suitable for light users who mainly want to keep messaging and basic browsing active during loadshedding. However, runtime and build quality may vary between brands, so expectations should remain modest.
Key Features
Low-cost backup solution
Plug-and-play setup
Works with most routers
Pros
Affordable
Simple installation
Good for short outages
Cons
Shorter runtime
Build quality varies by brand
How to Choose the Right Mini UPS
Choosing the correct UPS is more important than choosing the cheapest one. The wrong model may switch on but still leave your internet offline.
Before buying, check the following:
Voltage compatibility Your router label will show 9V or 12V. The UPS must match it.
Number of ports You need two outputs—one for the router and one for the fiber ONT.
Battery capacity Larger batteries last longer during loadshedding. Homes with frequent outages should consider at least 15,000 mAh.
Automatic switching The UPS must automatically switch to battery when power fails. Manual units defeat the purpose.
Will a Mini UPS Protect Your Router?
Yes. A mini UPS does more than just keep your internet online. It also protects your router and ONT from sudden power loss and power spikes when electricity returns.
Repeated hard shutdowns can shorten the lifespan of networking equipment. Because a UPS provides stable voltage and controlled shutdown behavior, it reduces the risk of damage and improves reliability over time.
How long does a mini UPS last during loadshedding?
This is the most important question before buying a mini UPS. Runtime does not depend only on the UPS itself—it depends on how much electricity your router and fiber ONT use together.
Most fiber setups in South Africa use two devices:
• Fibre ONT (the wall box) → about 6W–10W • WiFi Router → about 8W–15W
That means the average total power usage is around 15W–25W combined.
Because of this low power draw, a mini UPS battery can last much longer than people expect.
Here is a realistic estimate:
Small mini UPS (8 000–10 000 mAh): ± 1 to 2 hours
Medium mini UPS (12 000–15 000 mAh): ± 3 to 4 hours
Large mini UPS (18 000–20 000 mAh): ± 5 to 7 hours
Stage 4 loadshedding is usually 2 hours, while Stage 6 can be 2.5 to 4 hours depending on the schedule. A properly sized mini UPS should therefore be able to keep your internet online for an entire loadshedding block.
Which Mini UPS Should You Choose?
If you are unsure which model fits your situation, the decision mostly depends on how you use your internet during loadshedding.
For most households, the Gizzu Mini DC UPS is the safest choice because it works with the widest range of routers and fiber ONTs.
For work-from-home or online meetings, a higher-capacity unit like the Volkano Mini UPS is useful if outages are frequent.
For stability problems after power returns, the UltraLAN Micro UPS can help prevent connection resets.
For occasional outages only, an entry-level mini UPS is usually enough for messaging and basic browsing.
Choosing the correct UPS is more important than choosing the cheapest one, because compatibility determines whether your internet stays online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a mini UPS myself? Yes. Setup is simple: unplug the router power cable, connect it to the UPS, then connect the UPS to the wall outlet.
Will fiber reconnect faster with a UPS? Yes. Because the ONT never switches off, the fiber connection does not need to re-establish itself when power returns.
Do mini UPS units use a lot of electricity? No. They use very little electricity because they only charge a small battery and power low-wattage devices.
Is a mini UPS better than an inverter for internet only? Yes. Inverters are designed for many appliances. A mini UPS is cheaper and more efficient if you only want internet backup.
Final Verdict
A mini UPS is one of the most practical solutions for staying connected during loadshedding in South Africa. It requires no installation, no fuel, and works automatically when the power cuts. For most households, a mid-capacity unit around 15,000 mAh offers the best balance between runtime and affordability.
If your main goal is uninterrupted internet for work, school, or security devices, a dedicated router UPS is usually far more convenient than a generator or full inverter system.
