Losing internet access can feel like everything comes to a standstill, and repeatedly refreshing the Wi-Fi doesn’t help. While it used to frustrate me, experiencing these issues has taught me how to make the most of the downtime. Here are some ways to pass the time until the internet is back up.
1
Keep Working Offline
Having no internet doesn’t have to mean putting work on hold. Apps like Google Docs allow you to create and edit documents offline, while Gmail lets you read and compose emails to send once you’re back online. If you have tasks that don’t require the internet, like image editing, you can also focus on those in the meantime.
This can also be an excellent opportunity to organize your to-do list and plan upcoming projects you’ve been putting off for a while now. If you expect an outage, download the necessary files and data in advance so you can stay productive instead of losing valuable time.
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2
Organize Your Files and Folders
Many of us go weeks or even months without organizing our files. I’m guilty of this too—I usually sort through my data only once or twice a year. Over time, folders can fill up with unnecessary files, making it harder to locate the ones you need. This makes our storage look unorganized. With the internet down, now could be a great chance to tidy things up.
Identify areas where finding files is difficult and establish a clear folder structure. Organize files into relevant folders with a consistent naming system and create subfolders for easier access. Delete duplicates and rename files for better clarity. While you’re at it, consider backing up important files to an external drive for extra security.
3
Clean Your Devices
When was the last time you cleaned your computer or phone? If you’re like me, it’s probably been months. Dust buildup can affect performance and make your device look much older than it is. So, grab a microfiber cloth and wipe the screen. If you have a can of compressed air, use it to clean the keyboard and ports. Hold the can at an angle to avoid pushing dirt inside.
Remember to clean the exhaust vents to improve airflow and prevent overheating. For stubborn smudges, use an isopropyl alcohol solution. If you have a PC, open the case, clean the fans, and gently remove dust from other components. Once your internet is back, you’ll notice improved performance on your computer.
4
Doodle or Sketch
Another great way to pass the time during an internet outage is to unleash your creative side by doodling or sketching. You can sketch on a drawing notebook or a simple piece of paper or make digital art with a tablet and stylus. Even if you’re not an artist, sketching whatever comes to mind can make the downtime more enjoyable.
If you prefer digital drawing, ensure you have an app like Krita that works offline. However, I recommend using a sketchbook—it gives your eyes a break from screens, especially since you’ll likely be back to staring at them for hours once the internet is restored. If drawing isn’t your thing, use this time to engage in another hobby you enjoy!
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5
Play Some Offline Games
You can stay entertained by playing offline games—perhaps the ones you’ve downloaded but never got around to trying. I keep a few offline games on my computer for this exact reason. Whether it’s a strategy game to test your decision-making skills or classic brain-training games like Sudoku or Chess, there’s always something to keep you engaged.
If you’re on a device that can’t run heavy games, the Chrome Dino game built into the Chrome browser is always a fun way to pass the time. You can also dive into immersive single-player experiences like Skyrim, enjoy classic games like Doom, or challenge yourself with puzzles like The Witness, which can keep you hooked.
6
Catch Up on Your Favorite Show
Watching TV shows and movies online is excellent, but your entertainment doesn’t have to stop if your internet goes down. Most streaming services, such as Netflix or YouTube, allow you to download content for offline viewing, so you can keep watching your favorite shows without interruption, no matter how long the internet outage lasts.
If internet outages leave you bored, consider downloading movies and shows in advance so you’re always prepared for some offline entertainment. Call me old school, but I also keep a collection of DVDs and Blu-rays for moments like these.
Just because the internet is down doesn’t mean you have to be bored. I stay both entertained and productive using the methods above. So, the next time you face an outage, you’ll know how to make the most of your time. If staying offline isn’t an option, you can switch to mobile data or an alternative internet source to stay connected.
