If you own a Starlink Gen 1 router, Elon Musk’s SpaceX might replace it for free. SpaceX, in an email to customers, warns that Gen 1 routers will soon be extinct. The routers were bundled with first-generation Starlink kits in 2020. The Gen 1 was phased out a year later, after the company transitioned to a flat-dish model and Gen 2 router.
SpaceX wants to replace your Starlink Gen 1 router for free
SpaceX says that the Gen 1 router will stop receiving software updates in the near future. This is a part of the company’s ongoing upgrades for security, performance, and reliability. The company is offering affected customers the Starlink Router Mini, which debuted earlier this year for $40.
“ As a thank you for being a longstanding customer, we are offering you a free Router Mini, a dual-band router with Wi-Fi 6, ” says the company in an email. Interestingly, the tech giant published a support page document about the free replacement almost a month ago. Several users on Reddit and Facebook report receiving the free router placement offer.
The company is offering the Starlink Router Mini
SpaceX notes that users can still use their Gen 1 router, even if it stops receiving updates. However, over time, they may experience degraded performance or reduced compatibility with Starlink services . Additionally, it could leave users vulnerable to security risks as they won’t receive security patches.
Besides updating users on the replacement program, the support page also offers details on how to set up the new Router Mini with the first-gen Starlink dish. The page mentions that users can expect improved WI-Fi connectivity once the new router is in place.
This development comes days after SpaceX urged select customers to update their dormant Starlink dishes before November 17th or the device would become “inoperable.” This is a part of the company’s effort to enhance the security and reliability of the satellite internet service.
