Starlink, the satellite-based internet service by SpaceX, has been making waves in the internet industry with its promise of providing high-speed, low-latency internet to even the most remote and rural areas. To make the most of Starlink’s capabilities, many users are opting to pair the service with a Peplink router. Peplink’s networking solutions are known for their reliability and versatility, but even more so their SpeedFusion technology. SpeedFusion allows for seamless failover and bonding between multiple Internet connections.
We’d like to explore a few pros and cons we’ve found with using Starlink and Peplink together. In turn, we hope it will help you to determine whether it’s the right solution for your application needs.
Pros of Using Starlink with Peplink Router
Reliable Internet
Starlink’s low latency and high bandwidth capabilities can provide a stable and fast internet connection, especially in rural or remote areas. The service’s satellite-based nature allows it to bypass many of the issues that can affect terrestrial-based internet connections, such as outages, slowdowns, and limited connectivity. With Peplink’s multi-WAN, failover support, you can enjoy reliable internet just about anywhere.
Backup Connection
In case of an emergency or if the primary internet connection goes down, Starlink can be used as a backup connection for critical services. With a Peplink router, you can set up a failover connection to automatically switch to Starlink if your primary connection goes down, ensuring that you never lose connectivity when you need it most.
Cost-effective
Starlink is more affordable compared to other satellite-based internet solutions. Peplink routers also tend to be less expensive in comparison to similar manufacturers, and generally offer more features. Most are capable of supporting the Starlink connection. It comes down to the number and type of Internet connections you plan on using that will determine which Peplink solution is appropriate for your needs.
SpeedFusion Benefits
Peplink’s warranty/ Care plans include access to SpeedFusion VPN, which allows you to utilize multiple WAN links together as one high-speed link. This can provide an instant failover (meaning no downtime), as well as more bandwidth from bonding Starlink with other Internet connections.
Load Balancing
Load balancing is a networking technique that evenly distributes network traffic across multiple Internet connections in order to maximize performance and avoid overloading of any single connection. The Peplink includes 8 total load balancing algorithms. These are rules which allow you to use Starlink only when its response time is the fastest or the latency is lowest compared to the other Internet connections.
Cons of Using Starlink with Peplink Router
Limited Coverage
Currently, Starlink’s coverage is limited to certain regions and may not be available everywhere. The service is still in its early stages and is only available in a limited number of countries, so if you live outside of one of these areas, you may not be able to use Starlink. However, as the service continues to grow, it’s likely that coverage will expand, so it’s worth checking back regularly to see if Starlink is available in your area.
Weather Dependent
Starlink’s performance can be affected by severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, which can disrupt the signal and cause slower speeds or even temporary outages. This can be a major issue for those who live in areas with frequent severe weather, and it’s important to keep this in mind when considering Starlink as a potential internet solution.
Equipment Cost
Starlink’s equipment and setup costs vary based on the type of install (home, business, RV). A Peplink router can also get costly if you maintain the warranty/ Care plan, which keeps the SpeedFusion VPN active. In addition, the cost of installation and setup can also be a significant factor, especially for those who live in remote or rural areas. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of Starlink and Peplink is likely to be lower than the cost of other satellite-based internet solutions, so it’s still worth considering if you need high-speed, reliable internet in a remote area.
Configuration
This is not a plug and play installation. Setting up Starlink to work with your Peplink router will require some configuration such as changing the router’s LAN IP address, SpeedFusion, and Outbound traffic rules. If you think you’ll need assistance, make sure you purchase from a certified Peplink partner like 5Gstore. We have guides available on the web and representatives on the phones who can assist as needed.
Making a Decision
Using Starlink with a Peplink router can be a great solution for people who are looking for a fast, reliable and cost-effective internet solution, especially in rural or remote areas. However, it’s important to keep in mind the limitations of Starlink and the requirements of managing a Peplink router. If you’re considering using Starlink and a Peplink router, take time to think about what you’re needing to accomplish. Consider the Internet connections you will utilize, and the budget you have to spend. This will all help in making an informed decision as to whether using Starlink and Peplink is the right choice for you.
If you still need assistance, please reach out to the 5Gstore team via phone, email, or chat!