Fibre During Loadshedding: Staying Connected
Don't let the lights going out stop your work or play. A guide to powering your fibre during power outages.
Fibre During Loadshedding: The Ultimate Backup Guide
Executive Summary
One of the greatest advantages of fibre over traditional copper (DSL) or some wireless technologies is that the fibre optic cables themselves do not require electricity to transmit data. This means that as long as the Fibre Network Operator (FNO) has backup power at their local exchange, your internet will stay "live" during loadshedding. All you need to do is power the two small devices in your home: the ONT and the Router.
Does Fibre Work During Loadshedding?
Yes. Most major FNOs (Vumatel, Openserve, Frogfoot, MetroFibre) have invested heavily in high-capacity battery and generator backups for their network hubs. In 95% of cases, the "signal" is still there even when your lights are off.
How to Power Your Connection
You need to keep two devices running:
- The ONT: The small box on the wall where the fibre enters.
- The Router: The device that provides your Wi-Fi.
The Best Solution: The Mini-UPS
A Mini-UPS is a small battery (about the size of a power bank) that sits between your wall plug and your devices. It stays charged while the power is on and kicks in instantly when the power fails.
- Cost: R500 - R1,200
- Runtime: 4 - 8 hours (depending on the battery size).
Comparison: Backup Power Options
| Option | Cost | Runtime | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini-UPS | Low | 4-8 Hours | Cheap, silent, automatic. | Only powers the internet. |
| Portable Power Station | Medium | 10-20 Hours | Can also power a TV/Laptop. | Expensive, takes up space. |
| Inverter System | High | 24+ Hours | Powers the whole house. | Very expensive, needs install. |
| Laptop Hotspot | Free | 2-4 Hours | No extra hardware needed. | Uses expensive mobile data. |
Practical Checklist: Loadshedding Prep
- Check your Voltages: Most ONTs and Routers use 12V or 9V. Ensure your Mini-UPS supports both.
- Test your Runtime: Don't wait for Stage 6 to find out your battery only lasts 30 minutes.
- Keep it Ventilated: Batteries can get warm; don't hide your UPS in a small cupboard.
- Ask your ISP: Some ISPs (like RSAWeb or Vox) offer a free Mini-UPS with certain packages.
Next Steps
Stay online while the neighborhood goes dark.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my fibre still go down during loadshedding?
This could be because your local FNO hub has a faulty battery, or because the 'backhaul' provider (the bigger network) is experiencing an outage in your area.
Can I use a normal power bank for my router?
Only if you have a special 'step-up' cable that converts the power bank's 5V to the 12V your router needs. A Mini-UPS is a much better solution.
Does the fibre cable itself carry electricity?
No. Fibre optic cables carry light, which is why they are immune to electrical interference and lightning.
Next Steps
Ready to put this knowledge into practice? Use our tools to find the best fibre connection for your home or office.