In a typical Starlink installation, the router is placed inside, with the Starlink cable routed through an exterior wall. Some users find themselves in a difficult situation, where their Starlink dish needs to be installed in a remote location. In some cases, this might call for the Starlink router to be installed outside.
Can the router be placed outside?
The Starlink router is IP54 rated, meaning it has some dust and water resistance. It can operate within a temperature range of -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C). With these specs, yes, the Starlink router can be placed outside in an appropriate weather-proof enclosure.
Factors to consider when installing the router outside
Placing the router inside is recommended if at all possible. Not only will the Wifi signal work better with the router placed indoors, it’s also much better protected from the elements. Starlink recommends placing the router indoors, even though it’s designed with dust and water resistance. If you need to install the router outside, here are a few things to consider:
- Weather – The environment needs to stay within the Starlink routers operating temperature range of -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C). Excessive moisture, dust, heat, or cold can potentially damage the router. I recommend purchasing a weatherproof enclosure to better control the weather factor.
- Location/Accessibility – The Starlink router doubles as a power supply for the dish. Not only does the installation location need to be accessible for maintenance/troubleshooting, you need to be sure AC power is available at the installation location.
- Wifi/Ethernet Connectivity – How are you getting internet from the router to your home? Plan for how to get Ethernet and/or Wifi from the exterior router location to inside your home.
- Building Codes – Check with your local code department to make sure your installation plan meets all building codes.
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Weatherproof enclosures
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If you put the router in something like the QILIPSU Junction Box above, it will be protected from the elements, and secure inside a lockable enclosure. The QILIPSU box is large enough to accommodate the Starlink Ethernet Adapter if you need to run Ethernet to your home, or if you are supplying a signal for a wireless point-to-point system. You’ll need to drill your own holes to route the AC power cable, Starlink cable, and any other cables you may require inside the box.
Final thoughts
Installing the Starlink router inside is preferred, but it can be placed outside as long as the environment stays within the specifications given by Starlink. I recommend purchasing a weatherproof enclosure to house the Starlink router. The weatherproof enclosure gives you additional protection from the elements, and allows for an easily accessible, secure installation.
How do you seal the holes made in the waterproof box through which the cables and plugs will pass? I bought the waterproof box, which seems pricey, and I need to know how to re-seal the holes before I start drilling.
There are rubber electrical grommets that are sized to fit the various openings in the box. It doesn’t need to be completely sealed, for example on the bottom you want a place where water can escape if it makes it inside.
What about heat? The Starlink router generates plenty of heat as you can easily feel touching the back of the router. Without proper ventilation the router will prematurely fail especially if the waterproof enclosure is exposed to the sun.
True, you need to make sure the enclosure the router is in does not exceed the heat rating of 122 degrees F.
Silly question here…but wouldn’t the front of the box need to be clear so that the router signal is stronger?
Thanks
Sarah
Most people who have to install the router outside would be using a 3rd party Wifi router inside the house. The Starlink router just serves as the dish power supply. You can connect the Ethernet Adapter to the Starlink router, and then run CAT5E cable inside the home to connect to the 3rd party Wifi router or mesh system. But if you are still going to rely on the Starlink router for Wifi, the signal would be impacted by the distance from the house, and also by any obstructions like the mounting box, walls, trees, etc.
Very useful article. What size is that junction box please?
The one shown in the article is 14.6″x10.6″x5.9″, which easily fits the Starlink router and leaves enough room for an Ethernet Adapter and cable management.