Peplink & Starlink Satellite Internet: The Ultimate Duo
Enhance Starlink Experience with Peplink
Starlink is a game-changer in the satellite internet space. It offers fast speeds and low latency. However, it's not 100% reliable. Various environmental factors impact connectivity, resulting in spotty or dropped service.
You don’t have to put up with sporadic connectivity. Pairing Starlink with a Peplink router will allow you to live, work, and play with a reliable internet connection relatively anywhere.
Take advantage of our system design and installation services. Learn more or call us for a free consultation: 1-800-969-8189.
What is Starlink Satellite Internet?
Starlink iis a satellite constellation using low Earth orbit to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet. It’s designed to overcome the limitations of traditional broadband internet, primarily in remote and rural areas. People who once did not have access to reliable internet services, now do.
In addition to satellite internet services, Starlink is also working towards satellite to cellular services.
Image Source: Space.com
How Does Starlink Satellite Internet Work?
Satellite internet does not depend on cables to transmit data. Like other satellite ISPs, Starlink has ground stations equipped with large antennas that are connected to the internet. These antennas broadcast signals to Starlink satellites, located about 342 miles above Earth’s surface. Those signals are relayed to Starlink dish antennas connected to internet routers. Users can then access the internet via smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, and other connected devices.
The Starlink dish antenna tracks the satellites as they move through the sky, maintaining continuous connectivity. A clear view of the sky is necessary for optimal results.
Starlink claims users typically experience download speeds between 25 and 220 Mbps, with a majority experiencing speeds over 100 Mbps. Upload speeds typically fall between 5 and 20 Mbps. Latency ranges between 25 and 60 ms on land, and 100+ ms in certain remote locations. These speeds make Starlink capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more.
When compared to the competition, Viasat and HughesNet, Starlink performed significantly better.
How is Starlink Different from Other Satellite Internet Providers?
There are multiple satellite ISPs, the big three being Starlink, Viasat, and HughesNet. When comparing the three, the main differences that stuck out were:
- Number of Satellites – Viasat and HughesNet own and operate a handful of satellites. Starlink, on the other hand, has over 4,000 functioning satellites. More satellites increase reliability and decrease service dropouts.
- Satellite Location – Viasat and HughesNet satellites are located about 22,000 miles above the Earth in geostationary orbit. This means they follow Earth's rotation at the same speed, making them appear stationary relative to the Earth. Starlink satellites are located roughly 342 miles above Earth. The shorter distance allows for faster speeds and lower latency. They're constantly rotating around the Earth, which is why Starlink uses multiple satellites.
- Equipment and Installation – VViasat and HughesNet use a traditional dish antenna that points at the satellite. Professional installation is needed to install the equipment and aim the antenna. Starlink dish antennas are small, flat, and do not need to be aimed. They are motorized and self-adjusting. Once set up in an area with a clear view of the sky, they automatically align themselves to optimally connect to satellites moving through the sky. Thus, Starlink can be self-installed. With the Starlink app, installation is made simple.
Even though Starlink has its advantages over other satellite ISPs, it still has a few drawbacks.
What Are the Downsides to Starlink Satellite Internet?
Here are the top common drawbacks reported by Starlink customers:
- Network Congestion – In areas with lots of Starlink users, speed drastically decreases during peak hours.
- Weather-Related Interruptions – Starlink requires a clear view of the sky. Anything interfering with the signal waves can weaken or knock your connection out. This includes rain, snow, and ice. The same thing occurs with satellite TV.
- Clear View of Sky Requirements – Starlink satellites don’t just sit in one place. They are rotating around the Earth. The antennas need a wide clear view of the sky to optimally connect to the satellites. Obstructions like trees, buildings, and the like, block or reduce line of vision, lowering performance.
- Price – Stralink service is not cheap. Their residential plan, Starlink Standard, starts at $120/month with a one-time hardware cost of $599. The Starlink Mobile plan for RV starts at $150/month with a one-time hardware cost of $599. While monthly rates can be comparable to plans from other satellite ISPs, they are higher than other data networks (cable, fiber, and cellular ISPs).
- Availability – While Starlink aims to deliver reliable internet globally, it’s not available everywhere. Limited availability also plays into network congestion. You can view where Starlink is available here.
How to Build an Unbreakable Starlink Internet Connection
The best way to create an unbreakable Starlink internet connection is with a Peplink cellular router.
With cellular:
- You don’t really have to worry about network congestion issues. Cell towers are designed to handle lots of devices at a time.
- Unless a tower goes down, connectivity is rarely interrupted by rain, snow, and ice.
- Since the signal is not coming from space, a clear view of the sky is not necessary for a reliable connection. Even when there are obstacles in the way cellular signals are usually still available, just not as strong.
- It’s a more affordable service.
- It’s available in most places Starlink does not work.
Anywhere Starlink does not work, a Peplink cellular router can pick up the slack for uninterrupted connectivity. And anywhere cellular is unavailable, Starlink keeps you connected.
What is a Peplink Cellular Router?
Rather than providing internet via satellite, cable, or fiber ISPs, Peplink cellular routers leverage cellular data. They pick up 4G/5G signals and convert them to reliable WiFi. This allows users to easily access the internet on the go or in areas where internet services are extremely expensive or unavailable. Though, they aren’t like traditional cellular routers and mobile hotspots. They are built with many features that enable unbreakable connectivity when paired with Starlink.
How Peplink Can Supercharge Your Satellite Internet
Because of the way Peplink routers are designed, you’re able to take your internet connection to the next level. You won't have to worry about Starlink dropping when you most need it. They feature:
Redundancy
Peplink routers are equipped with multiple SIM card slots and a WAN port to build a redundant network. This means that Peplink can switch between cellular and Starlink to ensure always-on connectivity with zero downtime. This is extremely helpful for those wanting reliable internet while on the road where signal is constantly changing. If cellular is available where Starlink falls short, which it usually is, you’ll still be able to game, stream, and more without any issues.
Built-In LAN Ports
Sporting multiple LAN ports, Peplink routers make it easy to wire TVs, computers, or any other devices. The Starlink router does not have built-in LAN ports. You’d have to get the Starlink Ethernet Adapter to add one LAN port. If you want to wire multiple devices, you’ll need an Ethernet switch.
External Antenna Ports
Antenna ports give you the flexibility to upgrade the cellular and WiFi antennas for more powerful ones. Upgrading the cellular antennas will help capture the strongest cell signal possible for superior connectivity when Starlink is unavailable. Upgrading the WiFi antennas may get you more coverage than what a Starlink router can provide as they don’t have antenna ports.
Poynting PUCK
- Pairs Best with Peplink Max BR1 Mini
- Up to 6 dBi Gain for Cellular and 7.5 dBi Gain for WiFi
- For Indoor and Outdoor Use Cases
- Flexible Mounting Options
The Poynting PUCK stylishly fits any vehicle using Starlink’s mobile configuration. It can capture the best cellular signal for the Peplink router, broadcast the strongest WiFi connection, or both. With gains up to 7.5 dBi, it delivers unmatched performance.
There are multiple PUCK antenna options. If you simply just want the router to receive the strongest cellular signals for optimal reception when Starlink connectivity is wonky, the PUCK 2 will do. To only maximize WiFi reception and coverage, consider the PUCK 12. For the best of both worlds, the PUCK 5 is the way to go.
Poynting MIMO
- Pairs with Peplink MAX BR1 Mini and Pro 5G
- Up to 6.2 dBi Gain for Cellular and 7 dBi for WiFi
- For Outdoor Use Cases
- Flexible Mounting Options
The Poynting MIMO antenna also fits any vehicle type. Compared to the PUCK, this antenna is much larger and more expensive. It also offers greater gain on the cellular side, ensuring the router receives superior cellular reception to deliver superior WiFi coverage.
To improve cellular connectivity, the MIMO 3-12 is ideal for the BR1 Mini. To optimize both cellular and WiFi with a single antenna, the MIMO 3-15 is best for the BR1 Mini while the MIMO 3-17 is best for the BR1 Pro 5G.
Bandwidth Bonding Technology
Bandwidth Bonding technology allows you to combine the bandwidth of Starlink and cellular for an even faster, more reliable connection. It's extremely useful for situations where bandwidth is scarce, such as at a remote site, or in a moving vehicle.
Configurable Network
Peplink routers let you control your network. You can steer traffic, set priorities, and much more. Starlink routers, on the other hand, don’t have configuration controls. You can't customize your connection. This is a bigger deal than you might think, especially if you find yourself in remote areas or needing a bit more bandwidth.
Top Peplink Cellular Router Recommendations
Peplink BR1 Mini
- WiFi 5 LTE Router
- Dual-SIM
- Two LAN Ports
- One LAN/WAN Port
- CAT 4 or CAT 7
The Peplink MAX BR1 Mini is an affordable LTE router for moderate bandwidth needs. It supports two SIM cards and one WAN connection. You can connect multiple wireless devices and wire two. It can be used in homes, vehicles, and boats. Available in CAT 4 or CAT 7, it’s capable of providing speeds up to 150 Mbps down/50 Mbps up or 300 Mbps down/150 Mbps up. It can be paired with different antennas to further optimize performance.
Peplink MAX BR1 Pro 5G
- WiFi 6 5G Router
- Dual-SIM
- Two LAN Ports
- One LAN/WAN Port
The Peplink MAX BR1 Pro 5G is a 5G router for high bandwidth needs. Like the MAX BR1 Mini, it supports two SIM cards and one WAN connection. It’ll keep devices connected using 5G/4G cellular bands and Starlink. No matter where you are, you’ll continuously receive the strongest signal. Equipped with WiFi 6 technology, it offers the greatest performance. Speeds can reach up to 4 Gbps down/700 Mbps up. You can choose from different cellular antennas to capture the strongest incoming cellular signal for optimal results.
FAQs
How to Get Starlink Satellite Internet?
You can get Starlink by placing an order via the Starlink website. Select whether you want it for your home, vehicle, or home, and fill out the required information. Equipment should ship within 2 to 3 days.
How to Connect Peplink Router to the Cellular Network?
To get reliable internet via cellular, all you need is an active SIM card from a carrier of your choice. Peplink routers are compatible with AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
Do Peplink Routers Require More than One SIM Card?
Not necessary. You’re able to use only one. However, to create a more resilient network, integrating additional SIM cards from different carriers will help.
How to Connect Starlink to Peplink Router?
Using the Starlink Ethernet Adapter, you can connect your Starlink to your Peplink’s WAN port.
- Step 1: Connect Starlink cable to Ethernet Adapter.
- Step 2: Connect Ethernet Adapter to Starlink router.
- Step 3: Connect Ethernet cable to the Ethernet Adapter’s LAN port and Peplink Router’s WAN port.
- Step 4: Step up Peplink router.
You can also wirelessly connect your Starlink to your Peplink via WiFi as WAN.
How Does Peplink Redundancy Work?
Redundancy ensures unbreakable connectivity. If your Starlink connection drops, the Peplink router automatically switches to cellular. No matter where you are, you will always have a reliable connection.
Do I Need to Keep My Starlink Router?
Yes. The Starlink router is needed to connect to the satellites. Integrating a Peplink router into your setup allows you to access additional features for unbreakable connectivity.
Supercharge Starlink Internet Today!
Your internet connection does not have the be at the mercy of weather conditions, location, or number of users. Pairing a Peplink router with your Starlink will take your connection to the next level.
Signal Boosters specializes in WiFi solutions for always online connectivity. We’re also a leading provider of cell phone signal boosters for homes, offices, and vehicles. Give us a call at 1-800-470-6777 or email us at info@signalboosters.com today to get you set up with an unbreakable internet connection.
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