A home Wi-Fi router uses about 4-10 watts and a modem or fiber ONT a similar amount, so the pair typically draws about 10-20 watts combined. Large Wi-Fi 7 or gateway units can use 20-25 W each.
- Running watts
- 15 WTypical; 6–35 W across models
- Starting watts
- NoneNo motor surge
- Per day
- 0.36 kWh24 h of use
- Current
- 0.1 AAt 120 V while running
Figures checked against DOE, ENERGY STAR and manufacturer data on . Your model's label is the final word.
Watts by model and setting
Most wi-fi router and modem models draw between 6 and 35 W while running; a typical one draws about 15 W. 15 W x 24 h for a router plus cable modem or fiber ONT.
- Wi-Fi generation and band count: tri-band Wi-Fi 6E/7 units draw more
- Number of mesh nodes: each node adds its own load
- Combined gateway vs separate modem and router
- Traffic load and wired ports in use
- Eco/energy-saving modes on newer models
Running a Wi-Fi router and modem on a generator or power station
- Generator: at least 15 running watts. A generator rated 1,000 W or more covers it with room to spare.
- Power station: continuous output of at least 15 W. Pure sine wave output is the safe choice for motors and electronics.
| Power station capacity | Estimated runtime |
|---|---|
| 500 Wh | 28.3 h |
| 1,000 Wh | 56.7 h |
| 2,000 Wh | 113.3 h |
| 3,000 Wh | 170 h |
Based on 15 W average draw and 85% usable capacity.
- One of the best things to keep powered in an outage: a 300 Wh power station can run a 15 W router and modem for about 15-18 hours
- Many routers and ONTs run on 12 V DC; a DC cable or small DC UPS avoids inverter losses
- Your internet still depends on the provider's equipment staying powered in the neighborhood
Add it to the generator calculator
Questions people ask
How long will a power bank run my router?
Divide battery watt-hours (after about 15% losses) by the router's watts. A 100 Wh battery runs a 7 W router for about 12 hours.
Should I turn my router off at night to save power?
Savings are small, about 0.1 kWh a night for a router and modem, and frequent restarts can be inconvenient.