If the Wi-Fi suddenly disappears, it’s not always the internet provider’s fault. Sometimes the culprit is a simple power outage. All it takes is a brief interruption for your router to restart or go totally offline. This is especially frustrating during important video calls or right in the middle of a critical update. The easy fix? A power bank as an emergency power source. Here’s how it works:
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Wi-Fi crash due to power failure? A power bank can help
Green Cell
Routers need surprisingly little power–usually only 6 to 12 watts. A standard power bank with 20,000 mAh (≈100 Wh at five volts) can keep your router alive between six and 12 hours depending on the model. That’s enough for a power failure or a mains-related restart.
Important: The power bank should support Power Delivery (PD) and supply an adapter cable that passes the required nine to 12 volts to the router. DC barrel (or hollow) plugs are common.
Most AVM Fritzboxes require 12 volts via round plugs, so a simple USB-C connection won’t work. A PD to DC cable with an integrated voltage converter can help. A suitable power bank with PD output is, of course, required.
Recommended USB-C to DC cables available on Amazon:
HUNSOOL USB C to DC cable
- Supports 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V
- Compatible with USB-C PD chargers
- Includes 8 connector tips
- Cable length, 3.9ft
SinLoon PD
- Supports 5V, 9V, and 20V
- Compatible with USB-C PD chargers and power banks
- Features DC 5.5 x 2.1 mm barrel connector input
- Durable nylon braided cable
Charge and power simultaneously with pass-through power banks
It’s even more practical with a power bank that supports pass-through charging. These models can charge themselves while simultaneously powering a connected device (like a router). This setup is perfect for continuous operation on the shelf. In the event of an unexpected power failure, the Wi-Fi stays “alive” without any extra effort.
A small investment for a big peace of mind
A good power bank isn’t just practical for your smartphone, it can also save your Wi-Fi in an emergency. Even during a power cut, you can stay online if you have the right cables at home. If you work from home, need to be reachable, or require a reliable internet connection, an (inexpensive) power backup can quickly pay for itself.
Bonus tip for tech enthusiasts: If you want a particularly elegant solution, install a small UPS (uninterruptible power supply) with a DC output. However, for most cases, a good power bank with at least 20,000 mAh and suitable connections is more than enough.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.