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Performance

Is slow Starlink caused by Wi-Fi or the satellite connection?

Reviewed · UK Satellite Internet

Compare Starlink’s router-to-internet speed with the speed at your device. If the router has a good connection but your laptop does not, the problem is likely to be Wi-Fi or the local network.

1. Router to internet

Open Speed Test in the Starlink app and tap Start. The default test measures router to internet, leaving your phone’s Wi-Fi connection out of the result. Run it when the problem occurs: a fast result at midday does not explain an evening slowdown.

2. Device to internet

Choose Advanced, then Device to Internet. This measures the full route, including the local connection. If it is much slower than router to internet, investigate the device or home network. Run the two tests close together in time so a change in network demand is less likely to confuse the comparison.

3. Device to router

The other Advanced option, Device to Router, measures the local link. Repeat it near the router and in the affected room with the same device. A large difference points towards distance, walls or interference. Try moving the router into the open before buying more equipment.

If the router test is poor too

Check the dish’s obstruction map and alerts. Save repeated poor results for Starlink support. Buying a higher speed tier will not repair an interrupted satellite link or weak Wi-Fi.

Sources and further reading

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