Starlink Replacing Gen 1 Routers for Free – Here’s What to Know

Starlink has started notifying customers that one of its oldest routers is nearing the end of official support. If your setup dates back to Starlink’s early rollout in 2020, you may already qualify for a free hardware replacement.

The company says it is discontinuing software updates for its original Gen 1 router and is offering affected customers a complimentary replacement at no cost.

What’s Changing

According to Starlink’s support documentation, customers still using the Gen 1 router will stop receiving software and security updates in the near future. The router will continue to function, but Starlink says it can no longer guarantee long-term security, performance, or compatibility.

To ease the transition, Starlink is sending eligible users a free Starlink Router Mini, which supports newer WiFi standards and updated security features.

This is a router-only replacement. No dish upgrade is involved.

Who Is Eligible

Eligibility is based solely on the router model associated with an account.

Customers who still use the Gen 1 router are being contacted directly by email. Newer Starlink hardware already ships with supported routers and is not part of this program.

Starlink is rolling this out account by account, so not everyone will see the offer at the same time.

How the Free Upgrade Works

If your account qualifies, Starlink will email you with a link to claim the free router. The process involves confirming your shipping address and answering a brief survey. There is no requirement to return the old router.

Swapping routers is pretty straightforward. The Gen 1 router is removed, the Router Mini connects via Ethernet, and setup is completed through the Starlink app. Using the same WiFi name and password allows devices to reconnect automatically.

About the Router Mini

The Router Mini is a compact WiFi 6 router with one WAN port and one LAN port. It supports both wired and wireless connections and can be used as part of a mesh setup with additional units.

Note: It requires its own power adapter and cannot be powered through Ethernet.

What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade

Starlink says customers may continue using the Gen 1 router if they choose. However, without future updates, the company cautions that users could eventually see reduced performance or compatibility issues.

For customers still running early Starlink hardware, this free replacement serves as both a heads-up and an opportunity to move onto supported equipment without additional cost.

If you think your setup might qualify, checking your email or the hardware section of your Starlink account is the fastest way to confirm.