Buyers often compare IP65 solar lights and IP66 solar street lights. The first digit indicates protection from solid particles, while the second describes water-ingress protection. Both ratings indicate dust-tight construction; IP66 is tested against stronger water jets than IP65.
The IP rating applies to the tested enclosure and configuration. Cable entries, connectors, battery compartments and installation workmanship can affect real-world protection. For coastal or industrial environments, also ask about corrosion resistance, fasteners, coatings and salt-spray testing.
Request the model-specific test report rather than assuming that one certificate covers every product in a supplier's catalog. Installation instructions should preserve seals and drainage paths.
