Starlink Router vs. Third-Party Router – Should You Upgrade?

Starlink Gen 3 comes with a built-in Wi-Fi 6 router that works out of the box — but is it enough for business use? If you’re wondering whether to stick with the standard Starlink router or upgrade to a third-party solution, here’s what to consider.

1. What the Starlink Router Does Well

The Gen 3 Starlink router offers:

• Wi-Fi 6 support (faster and more efficient than Wi-Fi 5)

• Basic home/office coverage in open-plan areas

• Integration with the Starlink app for quick setup and monitoring

• Automatic firmware updates and easy reboot/reset tools

For small setups or home-based businesses with basic needs, it’s often good enough.

2. Limitations of the Starlink Router for Business Use

For more complex or demanding environments, the Starlink router has limitations:

• No advanced networking features like VLANs, static routes, or firewall rules

• Limited ability to handle multiple SSIDs or guest networks

• No granular QoS (Quality of Service) controls for VoIP or Teams

• No local web interface — configuration is done entirely via the app

• No VPN passthrough or advanced port forwarding rules

• Basic parental controls and no support for enterprise-grade security

3. When You Should Upgrade to a Third-Party Router

We recommend using a third-party router or firewall if:

• You require more advanced network control (e.g. site-to-site VPN, VLANs, traffic shaping)

• You have multiple users or devices relying on stable Wi-Fi

• You need to prioritise VoIP, video conferencing, or remote access

• You want failover support (e.g. Starlink as a backup to fibre or 4G)

• You're managing multiple offices or remote sites

Popular router options include DrayTek, Ubiquiti, TP-Link Omada, and WatchGuard depending on your setup and budget.

4. How to Connect a Third-Party Router to Starlink Gen 3

The Gen 3 dish includes a built-in Ethernet port, so no adapter is needed. To switch:

1. Plug your third-party router directly into the Ethernet port on the Starlink power supply

2. Power off the Starlink router if still connected (or disable Wi-Fi from the app)

3. Configure your new router for DHCP WAN connection (Starlink will assign IP automatically)

4. Set up your Wi-Fi, security, and any business-specific rules as needed

Fusion IT can assist with configuration and testing if required.

5. Combining Starlink and Fibre or 4G for Redundancy

With the right router or firewall, you can:

• Use Starlink as a failover connection

• Load balance between Starlink and another internet source

• Ensure continuity even during outages or high Starlink latency

This is ideal for offices running VoIP, Teams, or hosted services.

Need Help?
Fusion IT can supply, install, and configure business-grade routers and firewalls, and integrate them with your Starlink Gen 3 setup for optimal performance and resilience.

Ticket Portal: https://support.fusionit.uk
Email: support@fusionit.uk
Phone: 01244 835080

Disclaimer:
This article is intended as a general guide. While we aim to ensure accuracy, Fusion IT cannot be held responsible for any issues, data loss, or damage resulting from the use or misapplication of these instructions. If in doubt, please contact our support team before making changes.