Networking & IT · Technology Explained

Failover Internet and Dual WAN

Two internet lines and a router that switches between them turn an outage into a blip.

Most safety plans fail on the night they are needed, because nobody practised them.

Read on: it takes a few minutes and could save you a lot more than that.

In this guide you will see:
  • Two lines on different technologies fail less often together.
  • A dual-WAN router switches automatically.
  • Load balancing uses both lines when both are up.
By Qyvea LimitedPublished 2026-10-16Updated 2026-10-162 min read
On this page01. Common pairings02. Setting it up03. Get it installed04. FAQ
Failover Internet and Dual WAN
Quick answer

Failover internet connects two or more lines, for example fibre and 4G, or fibre and Starlink, to a dual-WAN router or firewall. If the main line fails, traffic switches to the backup automatically. Some setups also share load across both lines. It protects tills, card machines, CCTV remote viewing and cloud systems.

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Key takeaways

  • Two lines on different technologies fail less often together.
  • A dual-WAN router switches automatically.
  • Load balancing uses both lines when both are up.
  • Check the backup's data limits and speed.
  • Test failover by unplugging the main line.

01Common pairings

Main lineBackupNotes
Fibre4G / 5G routerCommon and affordable; watch data caps
FibreSecond fibre from another providerBest resilience where available
FibreStarlinkIndependent of local lines; plan the mounting
4GAnother 4G networkFor sites without fibre

02Setting it up

  1. 01
    Choose the linesDifferent providers and technologies.
  2. 02
    Pick the routerDual-WAN capable router or firewall.
  3. 03
    Set failover rulesWhich line leads and when to switch.
  4. 04
    Prioritise key trafficPOS, voice and CCTV first.
  5. 05
    TestUnplug the main line and confirm everything keeps working.

03Get it installed

When to call a professionalWe install dual-WAN and test failover before we leave. Call 0113 301 244 or WhatsApp us.

04Frequently asked questions

Is 4G fast enough as a backup?

For tills, email and calls usually yes; for heavy use it depends on the signal and data plan.

Will it switch back automatically?

Yes; when the main line returns, traffic moves back.

Does it work with CCTV remote viewing?

Yes, but remote access settings need to be planned for both lines.

Why customers choose Qyvea

Genuine brandsManufacturer warranty on what we sell, so you are not gambling on the box.
One team, start to finishThe people who advise you also install and support it.
Fast answersWhatsApp replies usually within 30 minutes, and delivery within 24 hours in Nairobi.
Easy to buyPay by M-Pesa, bank transfer or card. Free delivery in Nairobi on orders over KES 5,000.
Risk taken off you7-day returns and exchanges on products, and a workmanship warranty on installations.
Customers say soRated 4.6/5 from 57 Google reviews.

Your next step takes one minute: send us a photo of the place on WhatsApp and we will tell you what it needs.

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