About Starlink VPN, Online security has become a major concern to many ISPs and internet users due to cyber threats and other data breaches.
The good news is that you can navigate online security concerns on most internet using a Virtual Private Network.
However, most people ask if Starlink works perfectly with VPN.
In this article, I will discuss Starlink’s VPN connection and recommend some VPN solutions for Starlink.
Why Do I Need a VPN?
A VPN service is a technology that encrypts your browsing adventures, giving you security and privacy over the internet.
It works as a tunnel to prevent external infiltration and a shield server that routes your internet before going public.
Many sectors, such as businesses, governments, and individuals, need a VPN for the following reasons:
- First, a VPN encrypts your online activities, preventing websites from collecting data. For example, sites that collect cookies, such as uploads and downloads, can send you unnecessary ads.
- A VPN service also masks your IP location so that no web can know where your browsing activities are. For this reason, you can access geo-blocked and Geolocked content from the comfort of your home.
- They also help you access government-censored content and content meant for a certain country only.
- Additionally, a VPN hides your activities even from your internet vendors. This data concealing helps you prevent speed caps when you access blocked sites such as Netflix and movie sites.
- Lastly, businesses may also need a VPN to encrypt the communication between their devices and users.
How VPN works
Can You Use a VPN with Starlink?
Yes, you can use Starlink with VPN since it works well. In my case, I have used NordVPN with Starlink for 3 years without any issues.
However, note that you may experience low speeds and high latencies depending on the VPN server you choose.
Select a server that is near your location to minimize performance issues.
What are Some of the VPNs I Can Use with Starlink?
When choosing a VPN, consider port forwarding capabilities and the ability to provide a Static IP address.
You should also consider the number and location of the VPN servers available.
Additionally, ensure your chosen service performs well in speed and customer support.
While considering the above factor, I have developed some VPN services you should consider for your Starlink.
Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA is a popular VPN service known for its affordable pricing and user-friendly interface. The software is also easy to use and features responsive customer care if you encounter issues.
It is also very fast with low latencies when you connect to any of its servers. What I like most about the service is the ability to connect you automatically to the best-performing server.
ExpressVPN
Another top VPN software to use is ExpressVPN, thanks to its dedication to online privacy and several servers globally.
Like PIA, ExpressVPN features an appealing interface that is easy to navigate and friendly customer support.
The service has fast VPN protocols, auto server selection, and private DNS for every server.
Having used this service, it has several servers in over 94 countries, enabling Geo-restricted content access.
Starlink on phone
Common Issues Experienced Using VPN on Starlink Internet
While there are no technical specifications preventing Starlink from working with any VPN, you may experience the following challenges:
Random VPN Disconnection
In this issue, your VPN may disconnect abruptly without any signal, even if it was fine a while ago.
In my experience, the disconnection occurs when your dish is rerouting automatically to the nearest satellite.
The reason is that most VPNs are sensitive to even the tiniest network drop, hence the disconnection.
While this may be the most common issue most users experience, fortunately, it doesn’t last long, and it comes rarely.
VPN Failure to Connect
This issue is where the VPN fails to connect to your Starlink network, mostly due to the protocols utilized.
My research shows Starlink works perfectly with modern protocols such as IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPsec.
However, the internet service has challenges with older protocols such as PPTP (point-to-point tunneling protocol).
With that said, if you are using modern protocols, you are fine, but PPTP will run into not connecting issue.
Luckily, most popular VPN services use modern security protocols.
Another reason for the failure to connect may be that Starlink uses CGNAT technology.
This technology optimizes the few IPv4s present.
Hence, if your VPN employs IPv6 only, you will have problems connecting since Starlink does not support it.
Higher Than Normal Latency
The typical latency of Starlink internet is between 20 to 60 ms, which is excellent compared to traditional satellite ISPs.
However, this latency may double or even triple when using a VPN, depending on the vendor.
Generally, the latency increase issue is due to the protocol technology used and the geographical location of the connected VPN server.
You can always minimize these issues using a VPN with lightweight and fast protocols like WireGuard.
Another solution is connecting to a VPN server that is near your residence.
Lower Than Expected Internet Speeds
Generally, you will experience slow speeds when using a VPN tool. The reduced speed is always about 20%, resulting from VPN protocols adding extra data to your requests.
However, the VPN server has a congestion issue when your speed reduces significantly to 50%.
This challenge comes mostly with free VPNs, which get overloaded when processing several requests simultaneously.
Some corporate VPNs may also experience this issue if they are outdated or fewer than users.
VPN on the phone
How to Fix Starlink VPN Issues
Although Starlink works with VPNs without issues, when they arise, here are some troubleshooting solutions:
Utilize A VPN with modern protocols
As we said earlier, Starlink will not work with older VPN security protocols like PPTP and L2TP.
Therefore, I recommend using modern protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Lightway.
In some VPN programs, you can change the protocol by launching your VPN software, navigating to the settings, and finding protocol settings. Now, you can experiment with the one that serves you the best.
Reconnect after a few minutes.
A slight disconnection or disruption from your Starlink network can cause a disconnection.
It can happen when Starlink is switching to another satellite or the is a sudden drop in connection.
The only solution here is to wait for a few seconds before trying the reconnection.
If the problem persists, you can power cycle your router and try again.
To power cycle the router, just disconnect it from power and wait a few seconds before reconnecting it.
Switch to a different server.
When you experience low speeds or high latencies, you could be connected to a faraway server or a congested one.
You, therefore, need to try another server, especially the one near your location, to navigate the performance issues.
Launch your VPN program, locate the server tab, find the servers list, and connect. You may have to connect to several ones to find the fastest.
Review your Network Settings
Sometimes, the VPN may fail to connect due to Starlink or your device restrictions.
For starters, you must ensure you are connected to the internet since a VPN can not work without an internet connection.
Secondly, check your device security settings, such as the WindowFire wall, to ensure there is no restriction in the VPN connection.
Finally, ensure you open your Starlink ports as required by the VPN.
Setting network
Conclusion
While VPN is a good technology to ensure privacy, security, and anonymity when browsing, it can bring Starlink performance issues.
A VPN is not for improving performance but for hiding your internet activities.
However, when encountering challenges, you can use the above troubleshooting methods or contact your VPN provider’s customer care.