Will Viasat work if power goes out?

Viasat, like most modern internet services, fundamentally relies on a consistent power supply. Therefore, if the power goes out in your area, your Viasat internet service will likely cease to function unless you have a backup power solution in place. This guide explores the nuances of Viasat's power needs and how to maintain connectivity.

Understanding Viasat's Power Dependency

The question "Will Viasat work if power goes out?" is a common concern, especially for individuals in areas prone to power outages or those who rely heavily on internet connectivity for work, communication, or emergencies. The short answer is: Viasat, as a satellite internet service, requires electricity to operate its ground equipment and, by extension, to transmit and receive signals from its orbiting satellites. This dependency is not unique to Viasat; most internet technologies, from fiber optics to DSL and even cellular data, require power at various points in the network infrastructure and at the user's premises.

To fully grasp why Viasat stops working without power, it's essential to understand the components involved in its service delivery. The Viasat system comprises several key elements, each with its own power requirements. These include the satellite dish (also known as the customer premise equipment or CPE), the modem inside your home, and the broader Viasat network infrastructure, including ground stations and the satellites themselves. While the satellites are powered by solar energy, the ground-based components, which are critical for your connection, are not.

The primary reason for the interruption of service during a power outage is the cessation of power to your Viasat modem and, crucially, the outdoor satellite dish. The dish needs power to orient itself towards the satellite and to transmit and receive signals. The modem, which acts as the gateway between your home network and the Viasat satellite, also requires continuous power to process data and manage your connection. Without this power, these devices simply cannot function, effectively severing your internet link.

Furthermore, even if your home equipment were somehow powered, a widespread power outage affecting the local Viasat ground station (gateway) would also disrupt service. These gateways are vital hubs that connect the satellite network to the terrestrial internet backbone. If these facilities lose power, the entire regional network can go offline. Therefore, Viasat's reliability during a power outage is intrinsically linked to the availability of electricity at both the user's location and the critical network infrastructure points.

In 2025-26, the landscape of internet connectivity is more critical than ever. With the increasing reliance on remote work, online education, telemedicine, and smart home devices, a stable internet connection is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Power outages, whether caused by severe weather, grid failures, or maintenance, can have significant repercussions. Understanding how your chosen internet provider, such as Viasat, fares during these disruptions is paramount for preparedness. This exploration will delve into the specifics of Viasat's power needs, compare its outage resilience to other internet types, and offer practical solutions for maintaining connectivity when the lights go out.

Viasat vs. Terrestrial Internet During Outages

When evaluating internet service providers, especially in areas prone to power disruptions, it's crucial to compare their performance against alternative technologies. Viasat, as a satellite internet provider, has a distinct operational model that influences its behavior during power outages compared to terrestrial options like DSL, cable, and fiber optics.

Satellite Internet (Viasat)

Viasat operates by beaming internet signals to and from satellites in orbit. This means its service is not dependent on local ground infrastructure like telephone poles or underground cables running directly to your home. However, this independence from local terrestrial infrastructure does not translate to independence from power.

• Pros during outages: If the outage is localized and does not affect Viasat's ground stations, and if you have backup power for your Viasat equipment, you might theoretically maintain a connection. This is a significant advantage over terrestrial services that rely on local power for their network nodes and equipment.
• Cons during outages: The primary drawback is the absolute requirement for power at your home for the Viasat dish and modem. If your home loses power, your Viasat service stops immediately, just like most other services. Additionally, if the power outage is widespread and affects the Viasat ground gateway stations, your service will be interrupted regardless of your home's power status. These gateways are essential for connecting the satellite network to the global internet.

Terrestrial Internet (DSL, Cable, Fiber Optics)

These services rely on a physical connection to your home, typically through copper wires (DSL, some cable) or fiber optic cables.

• DSL: Uses existing telephone lines. While the telephone network itself has some built-in battery backup at central offices, the equipment in your home (modem/router) and any local network distribution points require power. A local power outage will likely disable DSL service to your home.
• Cable Internet: Uses coaxial cables. Cable companies have invested in backup power for many of their network nodes and hubs to maintain service during localized outages. However, your cable modem and router at home still require power. If the outage is widespread or affects the local cable company's power infrastructure, service will be lost. Some cable providers offer more resilience than DSL due to their distributed power backup strategies.
• Fiber Optic Internet (FTTH): Generally considered the most robust. Fiber optic networks are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference and can carry signals over longer distances. Like cable, fiber providers often implement backup power at their network nodes. However, the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) or modem at your home, and your router, will still need power. In many cases, the ONT itself might draw power from the home, meaning a power outage will stop fiber service. Some advanced fiber deployments might include battery backup for the ONT, but this is less common for residential customers.

Comparison Table (2025-26 Outlook)

The following table summarizes the typical performance of different internet types during a local power outage, assuming no backup power at the user's premises.

Internet Type	Dependency on Local Power (User Premises)	Dependency on Local Network Infrastructure Power	Likely Performance During Local Power Outage
Viasat (Satellite)	High (Dish & Modem)	High (Ground Gateways)	Will stop working unless user has backup power for Viasat equipment and ground gateways are operational.
DSL	High (Modem/Router)	Moderate (Central Office battery backup, but local distribution may fail)	Likely to stop working.
Cable Internet	High (Modem/Router)	Moderate to High (Many nodes have backup power, but widespread outages can overwhelm)	May work for a limited time or in limited areas if node backup is robust; otherwise, will stop working.
Fiber Optic Internet	High (ONT/Modem & Router)	Moderate to High (Node backup exists, but user premises equipment is key)	Will stop working unless user has backup power for ONT/Modem and Router.

In essence, while Viasat bypasses the need for physical cables running to your home, its reliance on powered electronic components at your premises and at its ground stations means it is just as susceptible to power outages as most terrestrial services when considering user-premises equipment. The key differentiator for Viasat's resilience lies in the potential for its ground gateways to be located in areas with more reliable power infrastructure or to have robust backup power solutions independent of local residential grids. However, for the average user, the experience during a power outage is often the same: no internet.

What Components Need Power for Viasat?

To understand why Viasat stops working when the power goes out, we need to break down the system and identify the critical components that draw electricity. The Viasat satellite internet service involves a chain of interconnected hardware, and each link in this chain requires a power source to function. Disrupting the power supply to any one of these critical elements will result in a loss of internet connectivity.

1. The Viasat Satellite Dish (Customer Premise Equipment - CPE)

The outdoor unit, commonly referred to as the satellite dish or CPE, is the most visible part of your Viasat system. This unit is responsible for establishing a direct line of sight with the Viasat satellite orbiting the Earth.

• Function: It houses the transceiver (transmitter and receiver) and the low-noise block downconverter (LNB). The transceiver sends signals up to the satellite and receives signals from it. The LNB amplifies the weak incoming satellite signals and converts them to a frequency that the modem can process.
• Power Requirement: The dish requires power to operate its transceiver and LNB. More importantly, it often contains a motor that allows it to precisely orient itself towards the satellite. This self-aligning capability is crucial for maintaining a strong and stable connection, especially as satellites can drift slightly or atmospheric conditions change. This motor and the active electronic components within the dish are powered by electricity. Without power, the dish cannot adjust its position, and its electronic components cannot transmit or receive signals.

2. The Viasat Modem

Inside your home, connected to the satellite dish via a coaxial cable, is the Viasat modem. This device is the bridge between the satellite signal and your home network (computers, routers, smart devices).

• Function: The modem receives the processed signal from the LNB in the outdoor unit, decodes it, and converts it into a digital format that your router and devices can understand. It also takes data from your home network, encodes it, and sends it through the coaxial cable to the outdoor unit for transmission to the satellite. It manages the flow of data and establishes the connection protocols.
• Power Requirement: The modem is an electronic device that requires a constant supply of electricity to perform its complex signal processing, encoding, and decoding functions. It is typically powered by a standard AC adapter plugged into a wall outlet. When the power goes out, the modem loses its power source and immediately ceases to function.

3. Your Home Router (if separate)

While some Viasat installations might integrate modem and router functions, many users employ a separate Wi-Fi router to create their home network.

• Function: The router distributes the internet connection from the Viasat modem to multiple devices wirelessly (Wi-Fi) or via Ethernet cables. It manages IP addresses, handles network traffic, and provides security features.
• Power Requirement: Routers are also electronic devices that require AC power to operate. If your Viasat modem is working but your router is not due to a power outage, you will still lose internet access to your devices.

4. Viasat Ground Stations (Gateways)

Beyond your home, Viasat operates a network of large ground stations, also known as gateways. These are critical hubs that connect the Viasat satellite network to the terrestrial internet backbone.

• Function: Gateways act as the central point where signals from many Viasat dishes are aggregated and then sent to the global internet infrastructure. Conversely, they receive internet traffic from the terrestrial network and transmit it up to the Viasat satellites.
• Power Requirement: These facilities are complex and require significant amounts of power to operate their large antennas, powerful transmitters, receivers, and associated networking equipment. While Viasat likely invests in robust backup power solutions (like generators and UPS systems) for these critical infrastructure sites, a widespread or prolonged power outage could still affect their operation. If a gateway serving your region loses power, your Viasat service will be interrupted, even if your home equipment is powered by a backup generator.

5. The Viasat Satellites

The satellites themselves are powered by solar panels. These panels convert sunlight into electricity, which powers the satellite's onboard systems and recharges batteries for use during periods without direct sunlight (e.g., Earth's shadow).

• Power Requirement: The satellites are self-sufficient in terms of power generation. Therefore, a terrestrial power outage in your area will not affect the satellites themselves. Their operation is independent of ground-based power grids.

In summary, for Viasat internet to function, power must be consistently supplied to the outdoor satellite dish, the indoor Viasat modem, and potentially your home router. Furthermore, the Viasat ground gateway stations that connect you to the wider internet must also be operational, which relies on their own power sources. Therefore, a simple power outage at your residence will invariably lead to a loss of Viasat internet service unless a backup power solution is implemented for the necessary equipment.

Powering Your Viasat System During an Outage

Given that Viasat internet service is directly dependent on electricity, maintaining connectivity during a power outage requires a proactive approach to backup power. Fortunately, several solutions are available, ranging from simple to sophisticated, to keep your Viasat system operational when the grid fails. The choice of solution often depends on your budget, the duration of typical outages in your area, and the criticality of your internet connection.

1. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

A UPS is a battery backup system that provides immediate power to connected devices when the main power source fails. It's ideal for short to medium-duration power interruptions.

• How it works: A UPS contains a battery that is constantly charged when main power is available. When a power outage is detected, the UPS instantly switches to battery power, providing a seamless transition for your connected equipment.
• What to power: You would connect your Viasat modem and your home router to the UPS. Some users also choose to power a small computer or laptop via the UPS.
• Considerations:
  • Capacity (VA/Watts): Ensure the UPS has sufficient capacity to power all connected devices. Check the power consumption of your modem and router (often listed on the device or in their manuals) and add them together.
  • Runtime: UPS units have limited battery life. A typical consumer-grade UPS might provide 15-60 minutes of runtime, depending on the load. This is usually enough to safely shut down devices or bridge short outages. For longer outages, a larger UPS or a different solution is needed.
  • Cost: Varies from $50 for small units to several hundred dollars for larger capacity models.

2. Portable Power Stations (Solar Generators)

These are essentially large portable batteries with multiple outlets (AC, DC, USB) that can be recharged from a wall outlet, car adapter, or solar panels. They offer longer runtimes than typical UPS units.

• How it works: You charge the power station when grid power is available. During an outage, you plug your Viasat modem, router, and other essential devices into the power station.
• What to power: Primarily your Viasat modem and router. Many models also have enough capacity to charge phones, laptops, and even run small appliances.
• Considerations:
  • Capacity (Watt-hours): This is the key metric for runtime. A 500Wh power station can power a 50W load for approximately 10 hours (500Wh / 50W = 10h). Calculate your total wattage needs and desired runtime to select an appropriate unit.
  • Recharging: While they can be recharged from the grid, their true value during extended outages comes from solar recharging. If you anticipate long outages, investing in compatible solar panels is recommended.
  • Cost: Can range from $300 to $2000+ depending on capacity and features.

3. Standby Generators

These are more substantial systems, typically powered by gasoline, propane, or natural gas, that automatically or manually start up when grid power fails. They can power your entire home or specific circuits.

• How it works: A generator is installed outside your home. It connects to your home's electrical panel, either powering specific "essential circuits" (like your internet equipment, refrigerator, lights) or your entire house via an automatic transfer switch.
• What to power: You can dedicate a circuit specifically for your Viasat modem, router, and other critical home electronics.
• Considerations:
  • Fuel Source: Gasoline generators require manual refueling. Propane and natural gas generators can run as long as their fuel source is available, offering longer runtimes.
  • Installation: Requires professional installation and is a significant investment.
  • Maintenance: Generators require regular maintenance.
  • Noise and Emissions: Can be noisy and produce exhaust fumes.
  • Cost: Installation and the unit itself can cost several thousand dollars.

4. Car Power Inverter

If you have a vehicle with a running engine, you can use a car power inverter to convert your car's DC power into AC power to run your Viasat modem and router.

• How it works: Connect the inverter to your car's battery (or cigarette lighter for lower power needs). Plug your Viasat modem and router into the inverter. Ensure your car engine is running periodically to recharge the car battery.
• What to power: Suitable for powering low-wattage devices like modems and routers.
• Considerations:
  • Runtime: Limited by how long you can run your car engine without depleting the battery or consuming excessive fuel.
  • Safety: Ensure proper ventilation if running the engine in a garage.
  • Convenience: Less convenient than a dedicated backup system.

Step-by-Step Guide to Powering Your Viasat System

Step 1: Identify Critical Equipment: Determine which devices are essential for your Viasat internet connection. This typically includes your Viasat modem and your Wi-Fi router.

Step 2: Calculate Power Needs: Find the power consumption (in watts) for each device. This information is usually on a label on the device or in its user manual. Sum these wattages to get your total power requirement.

Step 3: Choose a Backup Power Solution: Based on your typical outage duration, budget, and desired runtime, select one of the solutions above (UPS, power station, generator).

Step 4: Purchase and Set Up: Acquire the chosen backup power system. For UPS and portable power stations, simply plug your modem and router into the backup unit. For generators, consult a qualified electrician for proper installation and wiring to essential circuits.

Step 5: Test Your System: Periodically test your backup power setup to ensure it functions correctly. This involves simulating a power outage and verifying that your Viasat equipment remains powered and connected.

By implementing one of these backup power solutions, you can significantly enhance the reliability of your Viasat internet service during power outages, ensuring you remain connected when it matters most.

Troubleshooting Viasat When Power is Intermittent

Intermittent power, or "brownouts," can be more disruptive to electronic equipment than complete power outages. When the power flickers on and off, your Viasat system might struggle to re-establish a stable connection, leading to frustrating connectivity issues. Troubleshooting Viasat during such periods requires understanding how the equipment reacts and what steps can be taken to stabilize the connection.

Understanding the Impact of Intermittent Power

When power fluctuates, your Viasat modem and router may repeatedly power cycle. Each time they restart, they go through a boot-up sequence, which can take several minutes. If the power cuts out again before the sequence is complete, the process restarts, preventing a stable connection from forming. This constant rebooting can also, in rare cases, cause hardware damage over time if not managed.

Common Issues During Intermittent Power

• Frequent Reboots: The modem and router turn off and on repeatedly.
• Incomplete Connection: The Viasat dish might not be able to fully re-align with the satellite, or the modem might not complete its handshake with the network.
• Slow Speeds or Dropped Connections: Even if a connection is briefly established, it might be unstable, leading to poor performance.
• Error Lights on Modem: The status lights on your Viasat modem might indicate a persistent error or failure to connect.

Troubleshooting Steps

The most effective way to combat intermittent power issues is to use a backup power solution, as discussed previously. However, if you don't have one or are experiencing issues despite having one, here are steps to troubleshoot:

1. Connect to a UPS: If you have a UPS, connect your Viasat modem and router to it. This will provide a stable power source, preventing the equipment from shutting down during power fluctuations. This is the single most effective solution for intermittent power.
2. Check Physical Connections: Ensure all cables (coaxial from dish to modem, Ethernet from modem to router, power cords) are securely plugged in at both ends. Loose connections can exacerbate issues caused by power instability.
3. Power Cycle the System (Manually): If the system seems stuck in a reboot loop, try a manual power cycle.
   • Unplug the power cord from your Viasat modem.
   • Unplug your Wi-Fi router (if separate).
   • Wait for at least 60 seconds. This allows the devices to fully discharge and reset.
   • Plug the power cord back into the Viasat modem. Wait for its status lights to indicate it's ready (this can take several minutes).
   • Plug the power cord back into your Wi-Fi router. Wait for it to boot up.
   • Test your internet connection.
4. Inspect the Viasat Dish: Visually inspect the outdoor satellite dish for any obvious obstructions (e.g., fallen branches, ice build-up) that might have occurred during the power event. Ensure it appears to be securely mounted and hasn't shifted.
5. Check Viasat Service Status: Visit the Viasat website or app (if accessible via mobile data) to check if there are known service outages or maintenance in your area. A widespread issue could be the cause, independent of your local power.
6. Contact Viasat Support: If the problem persists after trying these steps, it's time to contact Viasat customer support. They can remotely diagnose your modem and dish, check signal strength, and determine if a technician visit is necessary. Be prepared to describe the intermittent power situation and the troubleshooting steps you've already taken.

Preventative Measures for Intermittent Power

• Install a UPS: As emphasized, a UPS is the best defense against intermittent power. It smooths out power fluctuations and provides battery backup.
• Surge Protectors: While not a substitute for a UPS, using high-quality surge protectors for your Viasat modem, router, and other sensitive electronics can help protect them from voltage spikes that often accompany power restoration after an outage.
• Monitor Power Quality: If intermittent power is a frequent problem in your area, consider investing in a voltage meter or a more advanced power quality monitor to understand the severity and frequency of the issues. This information can be valuable when discussing solutions with Viasat or an electrician.

Dealing with intermittent power requires patience and a systematic approach. By understanding the impact on your Viasat equipment and employing the right troubleshooting and preventative measures, you can minimize downtime and maintain a more stable internet connection.

Real-World Scenarios and Case Studies (2025-26)

To truly understand the implications of power outages on Viasat internet service, let's examine a few hypothetical yet realistic scenarios based on current trends and technological capabilities in 2025-26. These case studies illustrate how different users experience Viasat service during power disruptions and the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies.

Scenario 1: The Remote Worker in a Rural Area

User Profile: Sarah lives in a rural area with limited terrestrial internet options. She relies on Viasat for her full-time remote software development job, which requires constant connectivity for video calls, code deployment, and team collaboration. Her region experiences occasional power outages, typically lasting 2-6 hours, often due to severe weather.

Situation: A winter storm knocks out power across Sarah's county. Her Viasat modem and router lose power, and her internet connection immediately drops. Her colleagues on fiber internet in a nearby town experience a similar outage.

Mitigation Strategy: Sarah had proactively invested in a mid-range portable power station (700Wh) with a built-in inverter. She connected her Viasat modem and her primary work laptop to the power station.

Outcome: The power station kept her modem and router running for approximately 8 hours. This allowed her to continue working through the initial 4-hour outage, participate in crucial team meetings, and submit her day's work before the power was restored. She was able to maintain productivity, avoiding any negative impact on her job performance. Without the power station, she would have been completely offline and unable to work.

Key Takeaway: For critical users like remote workers, investing in a portable power station or UPS for Viasat equipment is essential for business continuity.

Scenario 2: The Suburban Family with Intermittent Power

User Profile: The Chen family lives in a suburban neighborhood where power flickers are common during thunderstorms. They use Viasat as their primary internet for entertainment streaming, online gaming, and homework. They previously used cable internet but switched to Viasat due to availability.

Situation: A severe thunderstorm causes frequent power surges and brief outages throughout the evening. Their Viasat modem and router, plugged directly into the wall, repeatedly power cycle. Streaming services buffer endlessly, online games disconnect, and homework downloads fail.

Mitigation Strategy: The Chens had purchased a basic 400VA UPS for their Viasat modem and router a few months prior, primarily to protect against surges.

Outcome: The UPS successfully smoothed out the power fluctuations and provided enough battery power during the brief outages to keep the modem and router operational. While their neighbors experienced constant internet drops, the Chens were able to continue streaming a movie and their children could complete their online assignments without interruption. The UPS runtime was sufficient for the short, frequent outages.

Key Takeaway: A UPS is highly effective at mitigating the effects of intermittent power and brief outages, protecting sensitive electronics and maintaining connectivity for essential home use.

Scenario 3: The Emergency Preparedness Enthusiast

User Profile: Mark is a prepper who lives in an area susceptible to long-term power outages due to grid instability. He has a comprehensive backup power system, including a whole-house generator powered by a large propane tank, and solar panels with battery storage. He uses Viasat for communication and information access during emergencies.

Situation: A widespread grid failure occurs, leaving the entire region without power for over 72 hours.

Mitigation Strategy: Mark's home generator automatically kicked in when the grid failed, powering his entire house, including a dedicated circuit for his Viasat modem and router. His solar panels and battery bank also provided supplemental power, reducing generator runtime and fuel consumption.

Outcome: Mark's Viasat internet remained fully operational throughout the entire 72-hour outage. He was able to stay informed through online news, communicate with family via internet-based services, and monitor emergency response information. His setup ensured continuous connectivity, a critical component of his emergency preparedness plan.

Key Takeaway: For users anticipating extended or frequent outages, a whole-house generator or robust solar/battery system is necessary to ensure continuous Viasat service.

Scenario 4: The Community Hub with Limited Resources

User Profile: A small community center in a remote area uses Viasat as its sole internet connection for public access computers, Wi-Fi for visitors, and administrative tasks. The center operates on a tight budget and lacks dedicated backup power for its electronics.

Situation: A severe storm causes a prolonged power outage lasting over 24 hours. The community center's Viasat service goes down with the power.

Mitigation Strategy: None implemented for the Viasat system.

Outcome: The community center was unable to provide internet access to residents who relied on it for checking on family, accessing essential services, or even simple browsing. This highlighted the vulnerability of community resources that depend on consistent power.

Key Takeaway: Organizations like community centers, which serve a public function, should prioritize backup power solutions for essential services like internet connectivity to ensure resilience during emergencies.

These scenarios, set in the 2025-26 timeframe, underscore a consistent theme: Viasat internet, like most modern technologies, requires power. Its satellite nature offers independence from terrestrial lines but not from electricity. The ability to maintain Viasat service during an outage is entirely dependent on the user's preparedness in providing backup power to their Viasat modem, router, and potentially the Viasat ground gateway infrastructure if it's also affected by a widespread outage.

The Future of Satellite Internet and Power Resilience

As we look towards 2025-26 and beyond, the evolution of satellite internet, including Viasat's offerings, is increasingly intertwined with advancements in power management and resilience. The growing demand for ubiquitous connectivity, coupled with the undeniable reality of power grid vulnerabilities, is driving innovation in how satellite services are delivered and maintained during outages.

Advancements in Viasat Technology

Viasat is continuously investing in its satellite constellations and ground infrastructure. Future iterations of Viasat's technology may incorporate more power-efficient components for both the user premise equipment (CPE) and the ground gateways. While direct reliance on home power for the modem and dish is unlikely to change fundamentally for residential users, improvements in power draw could extend the runtime of backup solutions.

Furthermore, Viasat's focus on high-capacity satellites and advanced beamforming technologies aims to provide more robust and reliable service under various conditions. While this doesn't directly address power outages, it contributes to the overall stability and performance of the network when it *is* operational.

Integration with Renewable Energy and Smart Grids

The broader trend towards renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies will likely influence the future of satellite internet resilience.

• Smart Grid Integration: As power grids become "smarter," they can better manage load balancing and reroute power during disruptions. This could potentially lead to more stable power delivery to critical infrastructure, including Viasat's ground gateways.
• Renewable Energy for Gateways: Viasat and other satellite providers are increasingly exploring and implementing solar and battery storage solutions for their ground stations. This reduces reliance on the traditional grid and enhances the resilience of their network hubs during widespread outages.
• Home Energy Systems: For end-users, the rise of home solar and battery storage systems (like those from Tesla Powerwall, Sonnen, etc.) offers a more integrated solution for powering essential home electronics, including Viasat modems and routers, during grid failures. These systems are becoming more affordable and accessible.

Low-Power CPE and Enhanced Battery Backup

There's a continuous push in consumer electronics for lower power consumption. Future Viasat CPE might be designed to operate with significantly less power, making smaller and more affordable UPS units or portable power stations sufficient for extended outages.

Additionally, we may see more integrated backup power solutions offered directly by Viasat or its installation partners, perhaps as an optional add-on package for users in outage-prone areas. This could simplify the process for customers who want to ensure their internet stays on.

The Role of Starlink and Other LEO Constellations

The emergence of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet providers, such as SpaceX's Starlink, presents a competitive landscape. While these services also require power at the user's premises, their distributed nature and rapid deployment capabilities are changing user expectations. However, the fundamental power dependency remains. The competition may drive innovation in power efficiency and integrated backup solutions across the satellite internet sector.

Conclusion on Future Resilience

The future of Viasat and satellite internet connectivity during power outages will likely be characterized by a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

• Provider-side resilience: Viasat will continue to enhance the power reliability of its ground infrastructure through renewable energy and advanced backup systems.
• User-side preparedness: End-users will increasingly adopt integrated backup power solutions, from UPS units to whole-home battery systems, to ensure their critical devices remain powered.
• Technological advancements: More power-efficient hardware and smarter grid integration will play a crucial role.

Ultimately, while Viasat's satellite technology provides a unique advantage in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure, its operational continuity during a power outage hinges on the availability of electricity. By understanding this dependency and proactively implementing backup power solutions, users can ensure their Viasat internet remains a reliable lifeline, even when the lights go out.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to "Will Viasat work if power goes out?" is a definitive no, unless you have a backup power solution in place. Viasat internet service, like virtually all modern internet technologies, is fundamentally dependent on electricity. The outdoor satellite dish, the indoor modem, and the essential Viasat ground gateways all require power to function. Without it, your connection will be severed.

However, this dependency does not mean you are left without options. As explored, various backup power solutions, from simple Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) for short outages to portable power stations and whole-house generators for longer disruptions, can keep your Viasat modem and router operational. The key is to assess your typical outage duration, your budget, and the criticality of your internet connection to choose the right solution.

By proactively investing in backup power, you can transform Viasat from a service that stops working during an outage into a resilient communication tool. This preparedness is crucial in 2025-26, where reliable internet is essential for work, education, and staying informed. Don't let a power outage disconnect you; empower your Viasat service with backup power and ensure continuity when it matters most.