The Hidden Reason Your Internet Drops When PHCN Takes Light

February 10, 2026 Mr. Tech

Have you ever been streaming your favorite show, gaming online, or attending an important virtual meeting, only for your internet to suddenly drop because PHCN decides to take light? Frustrating, right? While power interruptions are common across Nigeria, many internet users remain unaware of the hidden reasons behind these sudden disconnections. The good news is there are solutions that can help you stay connected even when the grid fails, including the use of reliable fiber-optic internet providers.

In this article, we’ll explore why your internet drops during power outages, the technology behind more stable connections, and tips for maintaining seamless connectivity.

Why Does Your Internet Drop When PHCN Takes Light?

Many Nigerians experience internet drops without fully understanding why it happens. The issue is more technical than just a power outage.

1. Dependency on Electricity for Internet Devices

Most home internet setups rely on electrical power to function. Your modem, router, and even Wi-Fi extenders need a continuous power supply. When PHCN takes light:

Routers shut down instantly: No power means your router can’t transmit or receive data.
Modems stop functioning: Modems require electricity to convert signals from your internet provider into a usable format.
Wi-Fi extenders fail: Devices designed to amplify your signal also lose power.

Even if your devices have small battery backups, they usually last only a few minutes, leaving you offline during extended outages.

2. Network Infrastructure and Its Power Needs

Beyond your home, your internet service provider’s infrastructure depends heavily on electricity. Base stations, fiber-optic nodes, and network switches all require constant power.

Fiber nodes need electricity: While fiber optic cables transmit light signals, the nodes converting these signals into data require power.
DSL and cable networks: These older networks are even more susceptible to power interruptions.
Cellular data towers: Mobile networks also depend on electricity for signal transmission, affecting mobile broadband users.

Without reliable backup systems, these network components fail alongside PHCN outages, causing nationwide or regional internet drops.

3. Voltage Fluctuations and Equipment Damage

Frequent power outages and voltage fluctuations can damage your internet equipment:

Routers and modems degrade faster: Constant on-off cycles reduce lifespan.
Signal interference: Sudden power surges can cause temporary network instability.
Increased maintenance costs: Replacing damaged equipment becomes a recurring expense.

Many households face slow internet and repeated disconnections due to these underlying electrical issues.

Converge modem blinking red in Angeles City area — Router blinking red

How Fiber-Optic Technology Reduces Outages

Fiber-optic internet is inherently more reliable than traditional DSL or copper networks.

1. Less Dependency on Electricity in Transmission

While the devices at home need power, fiber-optic cables themselves transmit data using light rather than electricity. This makes them:

Faster: Data travels at higher speeds.
More stable: Less prone to interference from electrical issues.
Future-proof: Supports high bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and business needs.

2. Advanced Backup Systems

Some fiber providers implement power backup solutions at critical network points:

Battery backups: Keep nodes active during short outages.
Generators: Large-scale generators ensure regional network stability.
Redundant routes: Data can be rerouted through alternate paths to prevent service interruption.

3. Dedicated Connections vs Shared Networks

Unlike mobile or DSL networks, fiber often provides a dedicated line to your home:

Minimal signal loss: You aren’t sharing bandwidth with neighbors.
Stable speeds: Even during peak usage hours.
Less affected by grid failures: Combined with backup power, your connection remains stable even during PHCN outages.

Practical Tips to Stay Connected During PHCN Outages

Even with fiber-optic technology, having some precautions at home can help maintain seamless internet access.

1. Invest in a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

A UPS can keep your modem, router, and other critical devices powered for hours during short-term outages. Look for:

High-capacity batteries for longer runtimes.
Surge protection to prevent equipment damage.
Smart features that alert you when the UPS is low.

2. Use Mobile Hotspot as Backup

Mobile data can serve as a temporary connection when your main internet goes down:

Check network coverage: Ensure your provider has strong coverage in your area.
Limit high-bandwidth activities: Use mobile hotspots for work or communication rather than 4K streaming.

3. Choose Providers with Fiber and Backup Power

When selecting an internet provider, look for:

Fiber-optic connections for stable speeds.
Backup power systems at nodes.
Positive customer reviews on reliability during outages.

Some providers, like Lulifiber, are known for maintaining stable service even during PHCN outages, making them a solid option to consider.

A home office with a UPS and fiber-optic router actively running

Power outages caused by PHCN don’t have to mean losing your internet connection. Understanding why outages affect your internet, investing in backup solutions, and considering fiber-optic internet providers with reliable backup systems can make a world of difference. This ensures seamless connectivity for streaming, gaming, remote work, and everyday browsing.

Ensure your internet remains stable even during power outages! Explore fiber-optic options and backup solutions that keep you connected. Share your experiences with internet drops and tell us which solutions work best for you.