Your Starlink Router May Be Outdated Now – Here’s How To Upgrade For Free
In November 2025, early Starlink users were met with a surprising email indicating that SpaceX would cease providing software updates for their first-generation router. In response to this somewhat unsettling news, the satellite internet provider presented its users with a proposal that emphasizes the advantages of Starlink compared to traditional home internet options: The company will send them a complimentary replacement, the Router Mini.
This notice, which has gradually been sent to customer inboxes after the initial announcement in November, has ignited both anxiety and enthusiasm across social media platforms as users ponder the potential effects on their internet service. Importantly, Starlink has reassured that this policy change will not hinder the operation of existing Gen 1 routers. However, the company highlighted that the cessation of support may diminish the router’s performance over time, as it will not receive future software or security updates. Thus, Starlink strongly encourages users to upgrade their devices through the relevant link provided in their support email.
The initiative to replace customers’ Gen 1 routers isn’t the first time SpaceX has urged users to upgrade their hardware in 2025. Just weeks earlier, Starlink alerted customers who had either paused or terminated their services that they needed to update their Starlink dishes’ software — or risk permanently losing functionality. Fortunately, users simply needed to plug their Starlink dish into an outdoor location to complete the update. While this fix is less intensive than that suggested for Gen 1 router users, Starlink has offered an extensive, step-by-step guide on their website to facilitate a smooth transition.
Replacing your Gen 1 router
Starlink has simplified the process of exchanging the Gen 1 router for its customers. To start, customers can request their free replacement by clicking the “Claim Free Router” button included in the email regarding the update. This process involves a brief survey and necessitates that customers provide an updated shipping address. Additionally, consumers do not need to physically return their Gen 1 router to qualify for the replacement.
Users should adhere to a few straightforward steps to exchange their Starlink router. First, customers need to disconnect their old router while ensuring that both the router’s Ethernet cable and the satellite’s power supply remain in place for the new device. Next, simply connect the Router Mini using the existing Ethernet cable and plug it into the 15W power supply included in the Router Mini kit. The remainder of the router’s setup occurs via the Starlink App. Those requiring further guidance can refer to Starlink’s replacement guide or reach out to customer support.
Despite the simplicity of this process, there are several considerations to keep in mind. First, users with a Starlink Standard Circular dish will need to connect to the Router Mini through the Ethernet cable via the device’s WAN port, one of its two Ethernet ports. To establish a mesh network throughout their home, users will likely have to purchase and connect additional Minis. Furthermore, users should set up their Router Mini with the same network name (SSID) and password if they wish for their devices to automatically reconnect. Otherwise, each device must be manually reconnected.
Transitioning to a Router Mini
If you qualify, it’s likely that Starlink has already contacted you regarding the offer. However, if you’re unsure whether you need to replace your router, Starlink’s routers can be easily identified using the company’s picture guide. Generally, the Gen 1 Router is recognizable by its “prism” shape and “dual-tone design.” In contrast, the Gen 2 “stands upright with a glass front” and features a “router light” at the bottom. The most recent large model, the Gen 3, is broader, lies horizontally, contains multiple Ethernet ports, and has a router light on its front corner.
Despite Starlink’s offerings, some customers remain doubtful about the benefits of adding the Mini. Nevertheless, users who choose to upgrade to a Router Mini will likely appreciate the router’s high speeds and portability. Smaller than Starlink’s other routers, the Mini Kit is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, digital nomads, and even sailors. Promising speeds of up to 250 Mbps, Starlink asserts that the Router Mini will deliver considerable performance improvements, including “enhanced performance, better security, and increased reliability compared to the Gen 1 Router.” Therefore, acquiring the portable router for free, valued at $40, could be a significant advantage for some users.
There is, however, a condition attached to the free offer. While the Mini is provided at no cost, the device automatically enters standby mode, which incurs a charge of $4.50 per month for basic, low-speed connectivity. Users seeking the high-speed internet they have come to rely on from Star
