About Starlink Installation: That Starlink kit you ordered some time ago, and now it’s finally delivered to your doorstep.
However, before you can enjoy the fast and reliable internet promised, you need to install it.
Fortunately, you do not have to be a technician, as Starlink provides all the requirements for a successful installation.
In this guide, I will take you through the Starlink installation process in simple steps to get you started.
Preparation for Starlink Installation
Before installing your Starlink, you must have identified an open place with a clear sky view where to install the dish.
You must also read the provided manual thoroughly to understand how to install it. Additionally, depending on the installation complexity, you will need the following tool:
- Ladder
- Hammer
- Pliers
- Screwdriver set
- Drillscrews and nails
- Iron clips
You may also need extra Starlink accessories, such as mounting hardware, for a permanent or specialized installation.
Working tools
Unboxing Starlink Package
Apart from the instruction manual we said you should read, you will also get the following items in the box.
- Starlink router
- Starlink dish
- Router power cord
- 75 Ft PoE cable
- Tripod mount for temporal dish installation
Note that the content in the box may differ slightly based on the type of dish you order. Additionally, you may get more content, such as nodes and extenders, if you buy used Starlink hardware. However, whether you buy used or new, ensure all the above basic content is there to get you started.
Starlink hardware
Survey for a Place to Install the Antenna
Now that you have unboxed everything, it’s time to survey and find a suitable place to install your dish.
As we saw earlier, the mounting location should be free from obstructions such as trees and buildings.
Starlink reconds at least 100 degrees of clear sky view for the dish.
Some of the best places to mount the antennae include ladder mounts, rooftops, metal railings, and RV rooftops.
Also, note that some mounting surfaces may require specialized mounting hardware, which you must purchase separately.
While an even ground is also an option, it may not be enough for enhanced reception, and your device is prone to damage.
I recommend an elevated surface, such as a rooftop, for safety and reception.
Rectangular Starlink dish
Assembling and Installing the Dish
Before we begin assembly and dish installation, you should know that the two dishes come with different cables.
The round dish has a 50 ft detached cable with a straight connector on one side and an elbow connector on the other.
On the other hand, the rectangular dish comes with a 75 ft already connected cable with different connectors on either side.
With that taken care of, let’s see the assembling and installation process:
Installation process
- If you use a round dish, plug the cable so the straight connector goes to the dish. Then, you need to connect the mast to the provided X-like stand.
- For those using the rectangular dish, first unplug the cable and attach the included mast to the pan. Thread the cable again through the mast groove and reinsert it into the pan. The next step is to connect the mast to the X-stand.
- Use screws to secure the X stand on the installation surface. You may also place it on an open ground for temporal installation.
- Now, route the cable to your house through the window where the router is located. You may also need to drill through your wall to route the cable for a more permanent installation.
- Now connect the other end of the cable to the router, then the router to the socket, and power it.
Download the App and Check for Obstacles
Starlink app is a very vital tool when it comes to managing and controlling your Starlink internet.
It assists you during the initial setup, configures various settings, and performs troubleshooting.
You just need to search and download it from the Play Store or App Store, depending on your device OS.
You can also manage Starlink using the web interface on your laptop connected to Starlink WiFi.
And You just visit http://dishy.starlink.com/ or http://192.168.100.1/ and use your router credentials to log into the site.
However, for an obstruction check, you need to download the app and then follow the following procedure:
- Launch the app you have downloaded and log into your account
- Click the Check Obstructions settings
- Go through the provided instructions and click I’m Ready
- Now let your smartphone point to the sky while scanning through the provided angles on the app screen
- Then proceed to View Results of your scan once you have scanned all the angles
The red patches mean obstructed areas, while the blue regions indicate optimal viewing angles.
Configuring the Starlink Network
Now that all your devices are in place, it’s time to configure the network so that you can start using the internet.
- Visit your device’s WiFi settings.
- If the router initializing was successful, you should get a WiFi network named STINKY.
- Connect to the STINKY WiFi
- When successful, you will get a pop-up window prompting you to configure the Name and Password of your network.
- Now, set new credentials, return to the WiFi settings, and log into your new WiFi using your newly created password.
You may now launch your Starlink app and log in using your credentials to manage your WiFi.
Once logged in, your network status shows ONLINE if your connection was successful.
If it is not connected yet, the status will show OFFLINE or SEARCHING.
It is mainly because the dish has not established a signal with the nearest satellite.
If this is your scenario, you must wait a few minutes for connection establishment.
Test Speeds
Starlink promises speeds of between 220Mbps to 500Mbps, with most users in the resident plan experiencing 100Mbps on average.
If you are curious about the speed of your setup, you can check by clicking Speed Test on the app.
Alternatively, you can find free tools or apps online to check your Starlink speed. However, the speed may not be consistent since it depends on many factors.
Therefore, each speed test result depends on your internet plan, weather, congestion, and distance from the router, among other factors.
Internet speed test
How to Get Starlink Support
If you run into problems while installing your Starlink, you can contact support for help.
The bad news is that they do not have any email, phone number, or live webchat to reach them conveniently.
However, you can still reach them officially and get your problem solved. Launch the Starlink app or log into their website and scroll to the support page.
While here, you can type your question or read the various articles on different issues.
If this does not answer you, scroll down from any article and locate Did this answer your question link.
On clicking it, you will get to a contact page where you can raise a support ticket and wait for help.
Alternatively, you can ask your questions unofficially in forums and Starlink communities on various social media sites.
Conclusion
Now, you have all the details to install your Starlink and set it up successfully.
Ensure you have all the necessary tools, accessories, and suitable mounting hardware before installing. In case of any problem, you can contact customer support for help.
Additionally, you can opt to hire the services of a technician if you require a more complex or professional installation.