Online UPS and offline UPS are two distinct types of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems designed to safeguard critical equipment and data during power outages. Online UPS ensures continuous, clean power by constantly converting incoming AC power to DC power and back to AC power through an inverter, maintaining synchronized power flow without interruption. It’s the preferred choice for mission-critical applications like data centers and hospitals, offering the highest level of protection despite being more costly.

On the other hand, an offline UPS, also known as standby UPS, remains offline during stable power conditions and only activates during a power outage to supply power to connected equipment. While less expensive than online UPS, it provides a lower level of protection and is commonly used in less critical settings like home offices and small businesses.

To sum up, the selection between online and offline UPS systems depends on the required level of protection and cost considerations. Online UPS ensures continuous, high-quality power, whereas offline UPS activates only during outages, offering a lower level of protection at a lower cost.