Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX is discontinuing support for the original Starlink Gen 1 router (UTR-201) to improve security and performance.
2. Users will not receive software updates for the Gen 1 router, which may lead to security risks and slower performance.
3. SpaceX is offering a free upgrade to the new Starlink Router Mini as a thank you to loyal customers.
4. The Router Mini features dual-band capabilities, Wi-Fi 6 support, and is compact for easier placement compared to the Gen 1 router.
5. The replacement process for the Router Mini is simple and aims to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity for users.
If you’re one of the first people to use Starlink, SpaceX might give you a new Starlink Gen 1 router at no cost. Recently, the company has been emailing customers to inform them that the original Gen 1 router, known as UTR-201, will soon no longer be supported. These routers came with the initial Starlink kits back in 2020, before the switch to the flat-dish design and the introduction of the Gen 2 router the following year.
Changes Coming Soon
SpaceX has plans to stop providing software updates for these older routers soon as part of its efforts to enhance security, performance, and reliability. While the company mentions that you can still use the Gen 1 router even after updates stop, there are a few drawbacks. Sticking with unsupported hardware means you won’t receive security updates, which can expose your network to potential threats. In addition, SpaceX warns that users might end up experiencing slower performance or face issues with compatibility as Starlink services evolve.
Free Upgrade for Users
To tackle this challenge and ensure loyal customers aren’t left in the lurch, SpaceX is giving away the Starlink Router Mini as a free replacement. The email to customers presents this offer as a way to thank them for their continued support of Starlink. Normally, the Router Mini costs $40 and has dual-band capabilities, along with support for Wi-Fi 6, which is a big improvement over the Wi-Fi 5 standard in the Gen 1 router. Plus, the Router Mini is compact, about the size of an iPhone 14, making it easier to find a good spot for it compared to the Gen 1. Also, the Router Mini allows for mesh networking, so you can easily add more units later to improve coverage in your home, which is something the Gen 1 router does not offer.
Simple Replacement Process
A support page that was quietly released a month ago goes into detail about this replacement program and mentions that notifications to users began back in November. The documentation states that swapping the routers is an easy process that should lead to better Wi-Fi connectivity once the new router is set up. The support page also includes specific instructions on how to connect the new Router Mini with the older first-generation Starlink dish.
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