What is the Starlink app, and how does it help us with Starlink satellite internet?
The Starlink app is very important for all users because you need it to set up and position your dish.
Apart from that, the app is very helpful for every part of the setup, with tools that run speed tests, check network status, look at your connected devices, and so much more.
In this article, we will take a full tour of the Starlink app and show how you can use it to ensure the best performance of your internet.
The app is pretty much the same on both iOS and Android systems, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Description of the Starlink App
Apart from the components of the Starlink kit, getting the Starlink app is just as important.
You can download it from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. The app acts as a control center for your satellite internet.
On the app, you can create a Starlink account, get assistance on how to set up the dish, and get resources that are not usually on the SpaceX website, like shopping for Starlink accessories.
If you want the same options on your PC, go to dishy.starlink.com and log in there. However, the browser version is not always updated like the phone app, so you may not see some features.
Another reason why people prefer using the phone app is because it is possible to control every feature with the touch of a phone!
You can change your settings and look at your network. While you can reset your router from the app, you must still be connected to your Starlink router to start everything back up.
Managing Starlink Through the App
As mentioned above, you can use the app to manage all your Starlink settings. On the main screen of the app, you would see the status of your internet.
When it is working correctly, the status will show ‘online.’ If you just put the dish on, it will take a while for the dish to find Starlink satellites. The status will say ‘offline and searching,’ so give it some time.
If you are connected to the WiFi and the status still says offline or disconnected for a long time, double-check the cables. If you are still experiencing issues, you can contact Starlink support by submitting a ticket.
(satellite internet)
Visibility
The visibility section of the app shows you obstructions that may be in the way of the dish, preventing it from performing at its best.
It takes 12 hours to gather data to give you accurate information, so be patient and wait a while. You can use this page to monitor obstructions, especially in an area with tall trees and objects.
On the map, blue markings mean a clear view of the satellites and red means that the dish is blocked.
With the visibility page, you can quickly troubleshoot any issues from obstructions.
If you want more assistance in aligning your dish for a perfect view, you can use the camera mode at the height of your dish to look at the field of vision for the dish. This ensures that the dish is seeing many satellites.
(WiFi router)
Statistics
In this section, you can look at various statistics of your network, like latency, throughput, and network consistency. Let’s look into this a little more:
- Latency– This is the time it takes for data to go from your system through the network, out to the internet, and back.
- Uptime- The consistency of the Starlink connection.
- Throughput- How much data is uploaded or downloaded over the network.
Apart from these stats, you can also spot anything wrong with the internet, look at outages, and look at network history to see if it’s an ongoing problem or a current one.
Speed
If you need to check the network speed, you can do it easily through the app. You will see the graphic moving as you begin the test, and when it is over, it will show you a download and upload speed, as well as the latency.
You can also do an advanced speed test, which tests the WiFi speed between the router and your devices, then the speed between the router and the great internet through Starlink.
While you may not need to do this all the time, detailed tests like this can help you sort out network issues.
(internet speed)
Settings
Finally, we have the settings. The settings are for the router, and you can set a network name and password for the WiFi.
You can also bypass the router here if you are using an ethernet adapter and another router or set up your DNS.
Will Starlink Work Without Cell Service?
Yes, it can! You can do the entire setup without needing internet access or cell service.
You can even use the dish to go to Starlink.com, even if your plan is paused or you canceled the service.
Conclusion
That wraps up everything you need to know about the Starlink app. While it may seem like it does not do much, it is responsible for many settings, from positioning your dish to network settings.
The app also helps you look at Starlink accessories you may want to buy.