Will Starlink Satellite Internet Do Wi-Fi Calling? Starlink satellite internet has been a revelation to many remote dwellers’ internet users since its inception in 2019.
The service provides extremely high-speed internet with low latency in several parts of the world to go global.
You can use Starlink Internet for various online tasks, including gaming, browsing, downloading files, and streaming your favorite TV shows. But many still ask, ‘Will Starlink satellite internet call Wi-Fi?’
I have done thorough research, and I will answer this question comprehensively here.
Will Starlink Satellite Internet Do Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi calling uses a Wi-Fi connection to make voice calls, and Starlink can do Wi-Fi calling.
The method uses voice over internet protocol communication like in video conferencing apps such as Zoom and Skype.
With Starlink internet characteristics, you can enable Wi-Fi and VoIP apps on your phone and enjoy Wi-Fi calling.
This type of call would be ideal in remote areas where traditional cellular networks are a challenge.
Generally, satellite internet does not support Wi-Fi voice calling due to its high latency.
This high latency comes from signals traveling from satellites in far space to reach your device.
However, Starlink solved this problem using low earth orbit satellites to reduce its latency to between 20 and 40 milliseconds.
Yet, it may not be as efficient as fiber or cable internet, which experiences as low as one-digit latency.
But you can increase the efficiency of your Starlink Wi-Fi calling through a router with QoS and port forwarding capabilities.
Network Requirements For Wi-Fi Calling
As you may already know, meeting the network requirements can help you create seamless communication via your Wi-Fi.
Here are some of the major Wi-Fi-calling network requirements that you need:
Wi-Fi calling concept
- Robust Wi-Fi infrastructure: A strong and reliable Wi-Fi infrastructure includes quality access points, routers, and switches. Ensure these devices support the latest technology, such as Wi-Fi 5 or 6, for higher data transfer, speed, and coverage.
- Low latency: when it comes to Wi-fi calling, low latency is the chief requirement. It refers to the time data moves from one device to another. High latency can result in call stagnation, echoes, distorted voices, and call dropping. Lucky for you, unlike other satellite internets, Starlink features low latency, which makes these types of calls possible.
- Quality of Service: Abbreviated as QoS, quality of service is the functionality that prioritizes voice data over other data transmissions. Using QoS mechanisms such as Wi-Fi multimedia ensure you prioritize Wi-Fi calling, eradicating delays and packet data loss. Consequently, you enhance the call quality and consistency. The downside is that Starlink does not provide QoS capabilities. Hence you may need to purchase a Wi-Fi router.
- Sufficient bandwidth: You need enough bandwidth to hold voice calls via a Wi-Fi network for a seamless calling experience. Each call requires a minimum bandwidth, depending on the codec you use. Lucky, Starlink advertises bandwidth of about 300 Mbs which is enough for any Wi-Fi call.
How To Use VoIP With Starlink
Now that you possess all the network requirements for Wi-Fi calling, it’s time to set up your VoIP with Starlink.
The process is quite straightforward now that there are video call apps such as Skype and Zoom.
However, for internet phone calls service, the process may be a bit longer depending on the provider and your equipment. All in all, use the following steps:
- Test the speed of your network by opening the Starlink app and tapping on the speed tile.
- You are good to go if the speed and latency are within the recommended level.
- Head to your favorite app store and download a compatible VoIP service app
- Install the app on your device and register using your credentials.
- Open the app using your created login details, and you can enjoy the service.
Using VoIP hardware
Will Starlink Satellite Internet Do Wi-Fi Calling: For Internet calling services
If you use an internet calling service from a certain provider, follow the steps below.
However, it is important to know that many internet phone service providers require a wired connection.
Therefore, it may be necessary to purchase an ethernet adapter if you are using the Starlink modern dish.
Steps:
- Set up your devices according to manufacturer or provider instructions
- Head to the provider’s website using your computer browser and sign up for the service
- Follow their instructions and make any subscription as required so you can enjoy the service
How To Improve Starlink Wi-Fi Calling Performance
While some aspects are beyond your control, there are some actions you can take to improve your Wi-Fi calling performance.
Ensure a clear sky view for the Starlink dish.
As you may already know, the Starlink dish requires a clear sky view for communication with the satellites.
This communication enhances speed and ensures a steady connection necessary for seamless Wi-Fi calling.
To enhance network stability, ensure no obstructions such as buildings and trees.
You can use the Starlink app to scan for a clear sky view where you want to set up your antenna.
Satellite dish with clear sky view
Purchasing your router
We already established that the included Starlink router is very basic and does not support the QoS functions.
Therefore, the router cannot prioritize Wi-Fi calling over other less important traffic.
This scenario can negatively affect the steadiness of the Wi-Fi calling service.
As such, purchasing another router with QoS capabilities is advisable.
Steps to connect your new router
- Ensure you purchase a straight-up router because Starlink does not work with a router-modem combination.
- Buy a Starlink ethernet adaptor ( Starlink does not work with third-party adaptors)
- Enable bridge/ bypass functionality on the Starlink router
- Connect your QoS-enabled router with the Starlink one using the ethernet adaptor
- You can now enjoy excellent Wi-Fi calling on your device.
Best Hardware VoIP For Starlink
Since most VoIP apps portray almost the same performance, let’s discuss some of the best VoIP hardware instead:
IP phone hardware
Ooma Telo
Being an excellent match for Starlink, it is one of the most used VoIP services in the US.
The device features an inbuilt speaker so you can easily answer your calls.
It works like the traditional landline phone; you can easily set it up through the Starlink app or website.
Its main advantage is free unlimited calls in the US, but you may require a premium subscription for abroad calls.
Additionally, it comes with high-quality voice service and state-of-the-art encryption.
Magic jack
Since its launch in 2007, Magic Jack has become one of the most reliable and consistent VoIP.
It features an affordable cost, quality voice, and does not use the whole bandwidth.
Also, it comes with free unlimited calls and messaging in the US and Canada, with a free caller id and forwarding feature.
To set up the device, you just need to connect it to the USB port on your PC.
AXvoice
AXvoice features no installation fees; you can opt for a subscription or payment as you use it. Its voice quality is excellent, and it uses bandwidth efficiently.
The hardware offers free unlimited calls, messaging, forwarding, and conferencing.
Additionally, it comes with failover capabilities that allow you to redirect calls to any number when your ISP is engaged.
To install it, you just need to connect the free phone adapter to your router via the ethernet port.
Conclusion
With this research, we can conclude that Starlink Internet can do wifi calling.
With its low latency and high speed, it is capable of VoIP calls, which is useful in remote areas where cellular network is minimal.
However, the voice quality may depend on the day’s weather and other factors, such as where you set your antenna.
To optimize your experience, consider buying a QoS-enabled router and setting your dish in an unobstructed sky view.