SpaceX Issues Urgent Starlink Update for Stored Dishes Ahead of Nov. 17 Deadline

Starlink users who haven’t powered up their dish in a long time are getting a serious warning from SpaceX. The company says that some equipment running outdated software could become permanently inoperable after November 17, 2025, if not updated in time.

The issue affects dishes that have been inactive for roughly 21 months or more and are still running software older than version 2024.05.0. That version, released in February 2024, marked a key change in Starlink’s update system. SpaceX began using date-based naming for software versions starting around September 27, 2024.

So what does that mean for people who use Starlink on the road or keep one stored for travel season? If your dish hasn’t been plugged in recently, it could be on an outdated build that can’t download new updates automatically.

The Two Groups Starlink Is Targeting

According to the official Starlink support notice, affected customers fall into one of two categories:

1. Those who must plug in their dish before November 17.
   If not powered on by the deadline, the equipment will be permanently inoperable.
2. Those who must plug in and perform a software update.
   Beginning November 18, their dish will not connect to the internet until the update is completed.

Starlink says this requirement is part of ongoing improvements to security, performance, and reliability across its network. The company also clarified that users do not need an active subscription or service line to complete the update. Simply powering on the dish allows it to receive the new software.

How RV and Mobile Users Are Affected

This warning is especially relevant for people who use Starlink while traveling. Many store their dishes during the off-season or keep a spare system ready for future trips. Those units may have missed several rounds of updates.

SpaceX advises that even if your dish is part of a “Mobile,” “Roam,” or “RV” plan, it should be considered at risk if it has been powered off for more than 2 years. Plugging it in outdoors with a view of the sky is the safest way to make sure the update reaches it.

Dishes already running firmware between versions 2024.05.0 and 2024.12.26 will not be permanently disabled, but will still lose connectivity until they’re updated. Those with newer software, beyond 2024.12.26, do not need to take any action right now.

How to Complete the Update

Starlink sent affected customers an email or in-app message that includes their Starlink ID (UTID) and instructions. There are two main update paths:

If your message said “Action Required: Plug in for critical update”

• Place your dish outside and plug it in.
• You don’t need a perfectly clear view of the sky.
• The update should install automatically within 15 to 30 minutes.

If your message said “Action Required: Update Software”

• Plug in the dish, even indoors.
• Connect to your Starlink Wi-Fi and open the app.
• Tap Update now when prompted. Do not close the app until it completes. The process typically takes under a minute.

After updating, open the app’s Advanced > Starlink section to confirm that your software version now shows a year beginning with 2025.