From mid-August to November, Hurricane warnings are issued across the US, with September among the most vulnerable months. During these extreme weather conditions, power and internet outages are common as high winds and storms affect electrical and internet cables. Recovery of services depends entirely on the intensity of the situation and might take up to weeks.
To avoid getting cut off from communications, it's best to prepare proactively and explore backup internet options offered by top service providers in the country.
This blog explores:
- Best Backup Internet Options in the U.S.
- Backup Internet – Mobile Hotspots vs Battery Backup
- How to Choose the Best Backup Internet
Best Backup Internet Options in the U.S.
A backup internet connection is a secondary internet connection that is usually supported via cellular internet like LTE or 5G internet. This secondary connection automatically takes over when your primary internet connection fails during emergencies.
Here are some of the top ISPs that offer backup internet in the U.S.
Spectrum Invincible WiFiTM
Spectrum offers WiFi equipment that acts as a supplementary connection during outages. Your primary Spectrum Internet is a fiber-powered connection, while the backup is supported by a 5G network that automatically connects during disruptions or loss of connectivity.
Spectrum Invincible WiFi device is included with the Spectrum 2 Gig plan at no added cost; however, you can add it to any plan for an additional $30/mo. Here’s how the Invincible WiFi stands out:
- Supported by WiFi 7 technology
- 8-hour battery life
- 5G backup integration
- Unlimited 5G backup internet
- Includes WiFi security shield
- Simple self-install
Xfinity Pro WiFi
Xfinity Pro WiFi is a WiFi extender that is integrated with a cellular LTE backup internet that automatically switches from your primary cable internet connection during outages or disturbances, so you stay connected smoothly. You can add this WiFi extender to your Xfinity internet plan for $15/mo. for all these perks:
- 4-hour battery backup
- Up to 30 Mbps download speeds during backup usage
- 2 pro extenders for wall-to-wall coverage
- Simple self-install
- Easy WiFi monitoring with the Xfinity app
T-Mobile Backup Internet
T-Mobile offers a reliable and affordable backup internet powered by their strong 5G network. For only $20/mo. you get:
- 100 hours of unlimited data
- Automatic switchover from primary connection
- Usage tracking notifications
- No equipment fees
- 15-day free trial
Backup Internet – Mobile Hotspots vs Battery Backup
There are two types of backup internet services, each targeting a different reason.
A cellular or mobile hotspot WiFi backup ensures smooth connectivity when your provider's cable line is damaged, and you experience an internet outage for an unexpected period of time.
On the contrary, a battery backup keeps your internet running in case of a power outage in your area for any reason.
While you may experience both emergencies at the same time as well, the chances are less likely. However, all the backup internet recommendations in this blog include both battery and cellular backup that provide you with an uninterrupted connection at all times.
But let’s explore a couple of use-case scenarios:
Who Should Get a Mobile Hotspot Backup Internet?
Users who depend on the internet for work must have a mobile hotspot backup internet connection in case their primary internet connection faces an outage due to the provider’s regular maintenance episodes. Mobile hotspot internet is independent of cables and can run smoothly during an internet outage in your area.
Who Should Get a Battery Backup Internet?
Users living in remote areas where infrastructure may not be as advanced as in urban towns are more likely to face power outages during storms or extreme weather conditions. Having a battery backup would, in that case, keep you connected for emergencies.
How to Choose the Best Backup Internet
When choosing the best backup internet for your home, here are some key factors you need to keep in mind:
- Data requirement – how much data do you consume on a daily basis, and does the backup internet provide it?
- Speed requirement – what speed is sufficient for your daily activities and if they match your backup internet’s offered speed
- Battery time – how long your backup internet can work matters if your work, home security, or other activities depend on it
- Availability – make sure you check which backup internet options are available at your address
- Switchover method – would a manual switchover backup work for you, or do you need an instant automatic switch to maintain connectivity
- Budget – how much extra are you willing to pay for a backup internet service?
Is Backup Internet Really Worth It During Hurricane Season?
Having a backup internet connection is surely worth it if your work depends on it. Many people now work remotely, and having a consistent internet connection is a basic requirement. In most cases, a few hours without the internet connection won’t harm anyone. However, if you’re living in an area prone to extreme weather conditions like storms or hurricanes, you might need connectivity for emergency services or to stay in touch with family.
Ready to explore which backup internet options are available near you?
Give us a callFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, the internet is likely to go down during extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes. You can install a backup internet connection that runs over cellular data and battery to stay connected during internet or power outages.
Yes, you can use your phone to create a mobile hotspot to connect your devices to the internet during a hurricane when your primary internet connection is down.
Your backup internet can be from the same provider; however, make sure the connection is different. If you have a cable or fiber internet connection for your home, your backup internet should be a fixed wireless or 4G/5G connection that works during extreme weather conditions.
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Salena is a dedicated expert in the world of internet service providers (ISPs). With a passion for keeping readers informed, she works tirelessly to ensure that all ISP-related information is fresh and up to date. She collaborates closely with ISPs to ensure that no new updates are missed out on, and possess extensive knowledge on provider pricing, plans, deals, and more. Our editor's commitment to providing readers with accurate and timely information is second to none, making them a valuable asset to our team.
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