Why is Starlink Not Working? A fast and dependable internet connection is crucial as more people rely on the internet for business, entertainment, and communication.
Starlink satellite internet service has become an exciting option for individuals residing in regions with challenging conventional internet connectivity.
Although people appreciate the service’s ability to bridge the digital gap, some have experienced connectivity and technical glitches.
This post examines why Starlink is not working and offers detailed tips on troubleshooting common problems.
Table of Contents
- Starlink Disconnected
- Starlink Keeps Disconnecting
- Starlink at Capacity
- Starlink Is Offline
- Starlink is Slow
- No Signal Received
- Starlink Router Problems
- Conclusion
Starlink Disconnected
Description
If the internet service malfunctions, the “Starlink Disconnected” error message appears on the Starlink website or app.
This error could occur for several reasons, including a weak signal, poor weather, hardware failures, or software problems.
Occasionally, the issue may be temporary, resolved by restarting your Starlink terminal or waiting for the signal to stabilize.
At times, though, the problem can need more sophisticated analysis or a service call to Starlink support.
Solution
If you encounter a “Starlink Disconnected” error message, consider the following solutions:
Check Cable Seating on the Starlink Dish
Connection cables may occasionally become slack due to external conditions like wind or physical contact. Therefore, it is crucial to plug in cables correctly.
While connecting the cable, ensure you hear a click sound to guarantee it is correctly installed in the dish.
You may need to insert the cable several times until you achieve a secure connection.
Once you connect the cable securely, consider taping it to avoid future unintentional disconnections.
Satellite dish
Check if the Metal Pin is Bent
The metal pin is the small metallic component at the terminus of the cable that connects to the Starlink dish. Inconsistencies in connectivity may result from this pin being bent or otherwise damaged.
You may resolve the problem by ensuring the pin is upright and undamaged. Additionally, check and clean any dirt or debris inside the pin.
Check the Seating of the Cable on the Router End
Ensure the cable is appropriately placed, and consider a router reset after if necessary. If utilizing a circular dish, ensure the LAN port pins on the power adapter are undamaged and straight.
Straighten bent pins carefully to make a suitable connection with the RJ 45 end. Consider using a piece of paper alongside the cable to reinforce the connection at the LAN ports.
Check for Cable Damage
Consider examining the cables connecting the Starlink dish and router for damages like cuts, bends, or kinks. For a damaged Gen 2 dish, you can choose to repair or replace the damaged cable.
In contrast, replacing the cable for a Gen 1 round dish is impossible. You’ll need to buy a new dish instead.
Damaged ethernet cable
Power Supply Issues to the Router
This solution involves checking and ensuring the router’s power supply works properly. For Gen 2 dishes, check if the single white light is on- Gen 1 has two lights instead.
If these lights are off, it means there is a power supply issue that is affecting connectivity. Check if there is a proper connection to the power supply.
If this is not the problem, the router power system or the adapter may be faulty. For Gen 1 adapters, you may unplug if you see a red light, then replug it after around 20 minutes.
Additionally, consider removing any intermediary power supply such as UPS or power strip to see if it works.
Check if you’re connected to the Right Network.
Connectivity may occasionally occur if your Starlink router is connected to the incorrect SSID nearby. You may bypass the custom SSID option and reset your Starlink router to resolve this problem.
Afterward, connect to the default SSID. Press and hold the button underneath the router if you’re using a Gen 1 model until the light goes blue.
While utilizing Gen 2 routers, you can execute a power cycle by repeatedly disconnecting and replugging the router thrice.
Check for Possible Interference
Signals can become distorted due to interference when your cable crosses a power supply wire. To reduce interference, ensure your cable does not overlap with any power lines and, if necessary, position them perpendicularly.
You may also switch the Wi-Fi frequency on your router to lessen interference from nearby networks.
Check with Another Router
If none of the fixes mentioned above are successful, try connecting to a different router. Another connection helps determine whether the problem lies with that device or the Starlink service.
You can test whether the problem is fixed by replacing the standard router with an aftermarket router.
Starlink Keeps Disconnecting
Disconnection illustration
Description
Sometimes your Starlink internet keeps disconnecting, characterized by continuously searching for the signal.
The issue can happen during the first time installation or even when you have had a good connection before.
Solution
If this problem happens, here are some solutions to consider:
Check for Obstruction
For Starlink to maintain a steady connection, a good view of the sky is necessary. The connection may collapse if trees or other impediments prevent access to the satellite.
To resolve this, consider moving the dish to a different location with an unobstructed view of the sky.
Updating Firmware
Sometimes your device might be using old firmware, thus causing signal interruptions. You can check the last firmware updates on your device to know if you have the latest version.
However, since Starlink updates automatically, the only option is to wait for an update. You may also reboot your device to see if it resolves the problem.
Replacement Hardware
Old adapters and satellite dishes can also cause the signals to drop. If the above solutions do not work, contact customer care through the app and request a hardware replacement.
Starlink at Capacity
Description
When ordering Starlink, sometimes you get the message that it is at capacity in your area. This message means the Starlink network operates at maximum capacity in your locality and cannot accept new users.
Solution
There are two solutions to solve the “Starlink is currently at capacity in your area” challenge:
- Order “Starlink for RV”
Consider ordering Starlink for RV if you have no other solution for your urgent requirement. Starlink for RV has no waiting time, ships immediately, and has no extra cost on the hardware. However, you may be required to pay more for the subscription service. Additionally, it’s slower than a residential package since the company prioritizes residential users.
- Place yourself on the waitlist.
When Starlink is at maximum capacity, you can place your deposit and wait until the network is available again.
This waitlist solution is the best because the residential package offers roaming services, it’s less expensive, and you can cancel anytime.
Besides, SpaceX does not allow you to change the RV package to residential.
Starlink Is Offline
Description
When setting up Starlink for the first time, it is necessary to wait 30 minutes to establish a connection. Ensure the cable is tightly fixed and isn’t bent or damaged.
Solution
If still offline after waiting and ensuring the cables are properly fixed, the dish failed to reboot correctly. In this scenario, the solution is a hard reboot (resetting the entire system)
Reset the entire system.
To reboot the entire system, switch off the power and wait a few minutes before switching it on again. This method forces a hard reboot which fixes most of the problems. If this does not work, you can stow the dish manually by following the below method:
- Power the Starlink and remove the base
- Place the dish, ensuring the flat surface faces downwards
- Wait for a few minutes for the dish to automatically tilt to a stow position
- Now unplug its cables, plug them back, and power the device.
If this solution doesn’t work, call customer care immediately, as some of your hardware may be faulty.
Starlink is Slow
Description
Sometimes you may experience slow internet, meaning there is a problem with your devices or the company.
Solution
In this instance, the first solution is to switch the 5 GHz channel.
Switch to the 5GHz channel.
SpaceX offers two connection channels, 2.4GHz and 5GHz. 2.4GHz is slower but travels longer distances, ideal for heavily obstructed residences. On the other hand, 5GHz is very fast but travels shorter distances and is ideal for open residences.
If you have switched to 5GHz and there is still a problem, the network is overloaded. Additionally, a slow connection can result from bad weather, such as heavy rain in your region.
5GHz device
No Signal Received
Description
The “No Signal Received” message occurs when your dish cannot connect with the satellite.
Usually, it is a network issue from Starlink rather than your setup, resulting in connection loss. Typically this problem solves itself automatically after a few minutes.
Solution
However, if the above problem persists, you can consider the following measures to resolve it:
- Remove obstacles: Check the visibility section on your app to see any obstructions. If you see them, ensure you eliminate them to establish a clear sky view of the dish.
- Clean the dish’s surface: You can also use a rag or a wipe cloth. Cleaning removes any debris and dust particles that may cause obstruction.
- Reboot your Starlink system: The final option is to reboot your system to establish a connection.
Starlink Router Problems
Here is the meaning of Starlink router lights:
- No Light: This means there is a disconnection to the power source or the router is off.
- Red Light: It means there is no connection to the internet.
- Flashing White Light: The flashing light takes about 30 minutes, meaning the dish searches for a signal. It also means that it is updating its firmware.
- Solid White Light: This light means that the connection is excellent.
Conclusion
As seen above, many problems may arise when using the Starlink network. The most common solution is to check your connections for faults and reboot the system. If it doesn’t work, consider contacting customer care for advice or a replacement.
