With rapidly developing Internet of Things (IoT) era today, security performance has become a core indicator when select router 4g outdoor and outdoor 5g cellular router or even industrial grade router. When we see IP65, IP66, IP67 and IP68 markings on routers, these alphanumeric codes are actually the router’s “protection codes” for dealing with complex environments. This article will systematically analyze the technical meaning and application logic of these four common protection levels to help you to make accurate choice in different scenarios.

Basic structure and core essence of IP code

IP (Ingress Protection) rating system was established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), use a two-digit number to assess the protection capabilities of router 4g outdoor or outdoor 5g cellular routers against solid particles and liquids. The first digit represents dust resistance rating from 0 to 6, measuring the router’s protection against solid objects such as debris, sand, dirt and dust. 0 indicates the router is not protected against hard objects, while 6 indicates the router is highly secure and unaffected by solid objects. The second digit represents water resistance rating from 0 to 8, higher number indicating stronger protection level. 0 indicates that router is not protected against liquids, while 8 indicates the highest level of water resistance.

It is worth noting that IP65-IP68 ratings all meet the highest dust resistance standard of level 6, level 6 dust resistance means that router adopts a fully sealed structural design according to IEC 60529 standard, ensuring that dust particles cannot enter the internal cavity even in extremely dusty environments such as sandstorms. This “dustproof” characteristic allows them to provide basic protection in dusty scenarios such as mines and construction sites. However, the real difference lies in their subsequent waterproof capabilities.

IP Level Details

The first digit of IP rating indicates dust resistance level, ranging from 0 to 6, with seven levels in total. The second digit indicates water resistance level, ranging from 0 to 8. Before understanding the different ratings, it is necessary to understand the following concepts:

0–Unprotected

1–Prevent solid objects larger than 50mm

2–Prevent solid objects larger than 12.5mm

3–Prevent solid objects larger than 2.5mm

4–Prevent solid objects larger than 1mm

5–Dustproof (partially prevents dust from entering)

6–Completely dustproof

For waterproof, the grades are classified as follows:

0–Unprotected

1–Waterproof drip

2–To prevent water droplets from dripping at a 15-degree angle

3–Prevent spray water from flowing in

4–Prevent water from splashing in

5–Prevent water spray

6–Prevent strong water flow or waves

7–Prevent immersion in water (15 cm to 1 meter, up to 30 minutes)

8–Can be continuously submerged underwater

Protection level definition

IP65

Dustproof: Completely prevent dust from entering (“6” dustproof level)

Waterproof: Resistant to low-pressure water spray (Level 5 waterproof). Using a 6.3mm diameter nozzle at a water flow rate of 12.5L/min ± 0.625L/min, spray from a distance of 2.5-3 meters in all directions for at least 3 minutes. Suitable for everyday rain protection, water spraying, outdoor routers, car wash equipment and other everyday rain protection scenarios.

IP66

Dustproof: Completely prevent dust from entering(same as IP65)

Waterproof: Resistant to strong water flow impact (IP6 rating). Using a 12.5mm diameter nozzle at a water flow rate of 100L/min±5L/min, high-pressure spraying from a distance of 3 meters for at least 3 minutes which is 8 times strength as IP65. Suitable for construction sites, marine equipment, industrial cleaning equipment and other environments requiring high-pressure cleaning.

IP67

Dustproof: Completely prevent dust from entering(same as IP65)

Waterproof: Can withstand short-term immersion (Level 7 waterproof). Immerse the router in 1 meter of clean water (15-35℃) for 30 minutes, need pass an insulation resistance test. Suitable for outdoor use and other devices that may come into contact with water.

IP68

Dustproof: Completely prevent dust from entering(same as IP65)

Waterproof: Withstand continuous immersion (Level 8 waterproof rating), support deep immersion (manufacturer specified, normally 2-100 meters deep), must pass alternating pressure testing. Suitable for long-term underwater operations such as diving equipment, underwater cameras and underwater robots.

Water and dust resistance ratings are crucial for the security of routers and users, a router’s performance in different environments directly affects its lifespan and security. Especially in industrial environments, to choose a router with appropriate IP rating can effectively prevent router damage and personal injury. For consumers and businesses, select a router with right IP rating is essential, you’d better consider the usage environment and scenario before purchasing, ensure their waterproof capability is at least IP65 or higher which will improve security and extend the router’s lifespan for the routers which will be used outdoors or in humid environments.