Starlink

Starlink Slow? Find Out Where Speed Is Being Lost

A single speed test cannot tell you whether the problem is the satellite link or your local Wi-Fi. Compare the router-to-Internet result with the device-to-router result, then repeat from different locations and at different times.

Verified Official sources~6 min read
Quick answer

Run the Starlink speed test and, where available, its advanced split tests. If the device-to-router leg is much slower than the Internet leg, work on Wi-Fi coverage first. If the local leg is strong but Internet remains slow, check obstructions, service status and time-of-day variation.

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Before you start

Use normal shutdown procedures, keep hardware dry and stop if you see damage, overheating, burning smells or any electrical risk.

Procedure

Checks to perform in the right order

Start with simple, reversible checks. If one step fixes the issue, stop there instead of changing unrelated settings.

01

Measure the Internet side

Use the Starlink app to measure the connection toward the Internet so you have a baseline that is not dominated by a weak phone-to-router Wi-Fi link.

02

Measure the local Wi-Fi side

Compare device-to-router performance. A large gap between this result and the Internet result points to local coverage, interference or device limitations.

03

Repeat close to the router

Run the same test near the Starlink router and then in the slow room. Keep the device and test method the same so location is the main variable.

04

Check the obstruction map

Intermittent obstruction events can reduce consistency and should be separated from ordinary indoor Wi-Fi weakness.

05

Compare times and a second device

Repeat at different times and, if possible, with another device or Ethernet connection. If only one device is slow, fix that device before redesigning the network.

Diagnosis

How to narrow down the cause

  • Router-to-Internet is fast but device-to-router is slow: prioritize Wi-Fi coverage and interference.
  • Both results are slow near the router: investigate Starlink service, obstructions and repeat measurements over time.
  • Only one device is slow: focus on that device's Wi-Fi hardware, settings or software first.
Transparency

Official sources used

Procedures can vary by model, firmware or hardware revision. When your device differs, use the official manufacturer documentation for that exact model.

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