My Starlink Is Not Working: Help and Troubleshooting Guide

If your Starlink is not working, you are not alone. Connection issues can happen due to power problems, obstructions, account setup, or router configuration. This guide walks you through the most common fixes step by step.

Do you need affordable Starlink connectivity for impactful use please check out our Impact Marketplace.

First check: Is Starlink completely offline

Before troubleshooting, check what is not working.

• No internet at all
• WiFi is visible but no connection
• Starlink app shows “Offline” or “Disconnected”
• Router has power but no data
• Connection drops frequently

Open the Starlink app first. Most issues will show clearly there.

Step 1: Check power and cables

Many Starlink issues are caused by power or cabling problems.

• Make sure the router is plugged directly into a power source
• Check that all cables are fully seated and not loose
• Inspect cables for cuts or visible damage
• If using a power extension or inverter, test with a direct wall outlet

If there is no light on the router, it is likely a power issue.

Step 2: Check for obstructions

Starlink needs a clear view of the sky to work properly.

In the Starlink app
• Go to “Obstructions”
• Check if trees, buildings, or terrain are blocking the dish
• Even partial obstruction can cause dropouts or no connection

If obstructions are detected, reposition the dish to a clearer location.

Step 3: Restart your Starlink system

A simple restart fixes many issues.

• Unplug the Starlink router from power
• Wait 30 seconds
• Plug it back in
• Wait up to 10 minutes for reconnection

Check the app again after reboot.

Step 4: Hard reset the Starlink router

If restarting does not work, a hard reset may be needed.

A hard reset will remove your WiFi name and password.

How to hard reset
• Unplug the router from power
• Plug it back in and unplug again
• Repeat this six times in a row
• After the sixth time, leave it plugged in
• The router will reset to factory settings

Reconnect using the Starlink app and set up WiFi again.

Step 5: Check the Starlink app for alerts

The Starlink app may show
• Network outage
• Account issue
• Service paused
• Hardware fault

If your service is paused or not activated, connectivity will not work even if the hardware is powered on.

Step 6: Test with a different device

Sometimes the issue is device specific.

• Try connecting with another phone or laptop
• Forget the WiFi network and reconnect
• Disable VPNs temporarily

If one device works and another does not, the issue is not Starlink itself.

Step 7: When Starlink still does not work

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, possible causes include
• Faulty router or dish
• Damaged cable
• Account level restriction
• Regional outage

At this stage, contact us directly at support@unconnected.org

Starlink not working in schools or community networks

In shared environments like schools, clinics, and community WiFi hubs, Starlink issues are often linked to
• Power instability
• Incorrect redeployment
• Router misconfiguration
• Overloaded local networks

These environments require additional setup and monitoring to remain stable.

At unconnected.org, we support partners deploying Starlink in impact locations by providing guidance on setup, redeployment, and long term reliability through our Impact Marketplace.

Need help deploying Starlink for impact

If you are an ISP, NGO, or community organisation looking to deploy Starlink affordably and sustainably for schools or underserved areas, unconnected.org provides impact aligned solutions designed for long term use rather than short term fixes.