If you’re unable to connect with Starlink Network from your Windows 11/10 PC or laptop, read this post to learn how to fix the issue. Many users have reported similar problems where their computers fail to connect to certain sites like Reddit and Steam, or they get frequently disconnected from the Starlink network.
Experiencing connectivity issues with Starlink on a PC or laptop can be extremely frustrating, especially when other devices like smartphones or streaming devices connect without a hitch. In this post, we’ll share some effective troubleshooting steps to help you resolve connectivity issues with the Starlink network on your Windows 11/10 PC.
Why is my Starlink not connecting to devices?
Your Starlink connection might not be working due to problems with the Starlink router, Starlink service outages, incorrect network settings, software or firmware issues, or obstructions from trees, buildings, or other structures that block the dish’s view of the sky. Additionally, severe weather conditions, power supply issues, and loose or damaged cables can disrupt connectivity, leading to intermittent or complete loss of network access.
Can’t connect to Starlink Network from PC or Laptop
If you’re having trouble connecting your PC or laptop to the Starlink network, take the following steps to troubleshoot the issue:
- Quick Fixes
- Check Starlink Status
- Reboot PC, Starlink Router
- Install Starlink Firmware updates
- Factory Reset Starlink Router
- Check for DNS issues
Starlink stuck on Entering Starlink network
1] Quick Fixes
Before you dig deeper into the troubleshooting, make sure the Starlink dish has a clear view of the sky without obstructions, all cables are securely connected, the Starlink router is powered on and all indicator lights are functioning correctly, your PC or laptop is within range of the Starlink Wi-Fi signal, and you entered the correct password.
Next, temporarily disable any firewalls, antivirus, or VPN software that might be blocking the connection and see if that resolves the issue. If multiple devices are connected to Starlink, disconnect some to reduce network congestion and see if that improves connectivity.
Reduce potential sources of interference such as other electronic devices, thick walls, or metal objects between your device and the router. Also, check the Starlink app for any error messages or notifications. The app provides troubleshooting tools and support options to help you resolve connectivity problems.
2] Check Starlink Status
Access the Starlink web portal through your browser or use the Starlink Mobile App to get detailed information about your connection status, including any detected issues or outages specific to your setup.
Visit Downdetector, Outage.Report, or similar third-party websites for real-time outage monitoring of your Starlink network. Also, visit the official Starlink Twitter account and the Starlink subreddit (r/Starlink) to see if other users are reporting similar issues or if there are any announcements regarding service disruptions or maintenance updates from Starlink representatives.
3] Reboot PC, Starlink Router
Rebooting your Starlink router and PC/laptop can resolve common connectivity issues by resetting network connections and clearing temporary glitches. Reboot these devices and see if it helps resolve the issue.
To reboot the PC, click the Start menu, select the Power icon, and choose ‘Restart’.
To reboot the Starlink router, disconnect the power cord from the router or the wall outlet, leave the router unplugged for about 30 seconds, and reconnect the cord to the router or wall outlet. This brief pause dissipates residual power and helps ensure a complete reset.
4] Install Starlink Firmware updates
Firmware updates often include fixes for known bugs or issues that might be affecting your network’s ability to connect to your Windows PC or laptop. However, you cannot manually initiate firmware updates (unless you receive an app notification, prompting you to download and install the update).
Firmware updates are typically rolled out automatically by Starlink (in batches), usually during the night at 3:00 AM local time +/- 30. This process includes rebooting the router and resetting the Uptime counter.
5] Factory Reset Starlink Router
Resetting your Starlink router can help resolve connection issues by resolving network conflicts and clearing configuration errors. To perform the factory reset, follow these steps:
- Go to your Starlink router and access the power plug.
- Power Cycle the router by unplugging it from the power source and then plugging it back in, repeating this process 6 times in a row. The router will take a few minutes to reboot. You can expect to see the light on the bottom of the router illuminated when it has finished rebooting. After the reset, the router will return to its default factory settings, clearing any custom settings you’ve made, such as the network name (SSID), password, and security configurations.
- On your PC, connect to the default Starlink Wi-Fi network. The network name will appear as ‘STINKY’ or ‘STARLINK’ in your PC’s Wi-Fi settings.
- Use the Starlink app to set a new Wi-Fi name and password.
- Connect your devices to the newly configured network.
6] Check for DNS issues
DNS translates human-friendly domain names (like www.thewindowsclub.com) into numerical IP addresses that computers use to communicate. If there is a problem with your DNS settings, it can prevent your PC from connecting to the internet even if the network connection itself is working.
Check and resolve any DNS issues by verifying that domain names are correctly translating to IP addresses.
If none of the above steps work, contact Starlink support for assistance. They may be able to identify an issue with your Starlink hardware or service and provide specific troubleshooting steps.
I hope this helps.
Read: WiFi turns off by itself in Windows 11.
How to connect a laptop to Starlink?
Place the Starlink dish in a location with a clear view of the sky. Connect the dish to the Starlink router and plug the router into a power source. Scroll down to the bottom of your Order Confirmation email from Starlink and click ‘Sign in to my account’. You’ll be redirected to the Starlink website. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Starlink account and activate your service. On your laptop, open the Wi-Fi settings.
Look for the Starlink Wi-Fi network (SSID) in the list of available networks.
Select the Starlink network and enter the Wi-Fi password set during the Starlink setup process.
Read Next: How to allow, hide, or block neighbor’s WiFi Networks on Windows computers.
