Starlink Router Unreachable? Complete Fix Guide (2026)

You’re about to stream your favorite show when the Starlink app flashes that dreaded message: “Router Unreachable.” Your internet’s dead, and now you can’t even access the router to figure out what went wrong. If you’re seeing Starlink router unreachable errors right now, you’re dealing with one of the most frustrating connectivity issues, but you’re in the right place to fix it.

Here’s what makes this different from a typical “no internet” problem: When your router is unreachable, your devices can’t communicate with the router itself. This cuts you off from both the internet and your ability to diagnose what’s happening. The good news? Most unreachable router issues stem from simple causes with straightforward fixes.

Key Takeaway

• Quick Fix First: 80% of unreachable router issues resolve with a proper power cycle (2-minute unplug)
• Hardware Matters: Solutions differ between Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 systems—check your generation first
• Bypass Mode Users: Need special static route configuration to access Dishy at 192.168.100.1
• Factory Reset Caution: Only use as a last resort—it wipes all custom settings, including Wi-Fi name/password

This guide walks you through everything from 30-second fixes to advanced troubleshooting for bypass mode setups. We cover all Starlink hardware generations with specific instructions for each. Let’s get your connection back online.

The 2-Minute Quick Fix Checklist

Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, try these rapid-fire solutions. One of these fixes the problem 60% of the time:

1. Check the App on Cellular Data
Switch your phone to mobile data, open the Starlink app, and check for network outages. If Starlink reports a known issue, you’ll save yourself an hour of unnecessary troubleshooting.

2. The “30-Second Rule.”
Unplug your Starlink router from the wall outlet. Count to 30 (actually wait the full time—this matters). Plug it back in and wait 5 minutes for the full boot sequence. Don’t touch anything during this time.

3. Verify Your Wi-Fi Connection
Open your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Are you connected to the correct Starlink network? Try “forgetting” the network completely, then reconnect from scratch. Sometimes your device clings to a cached connection that’s no longer valid.

4. Physical Cable Check
Follow the cable from your dish to the router. Push firmly on both ends to ensure they’re fully seated. For Gen 2 rectangular dishes, the proprietary connector should click into place. Look for any visible damage, moisture, or debris in the ports.

What “Router Unreachable” Actually Means

Understanding the problem helps you fix it faster. When the Starlink app displays “router unreachable,” it’s telling you something specific: your device cannot establish communication with the router. This is fundamentally different from “no internet” or “Starlink offline.”

Think of your router as a post office for your home network. If you can’t reach the post office, you can’t send or receive mail, even if the mail trucks are running perfectly fine. The Starlink router unreachable error means the post office itself is inaccessible, not that the postal service is down.

Two Main Causes

Connection Problem: Your device isn’t properly linked to the router’s Wi-Fi network. This could be a simple authentication issue, a corrupt network profile on your device, or interference from another network.

Router Problem: The router itself has frozen, encountered a software glitch, or isn’t receiving proper power/data from the dish. Hardware faults are less common but do occur.

Critical Addresses You Need to Know

192.168.1.1 or dishy.starlink.com — These are the local addresses for accessing your router’s web interface. If you can reach these from a web browser while connected to the Starlink Wi-Fi, your router is actually reachable (the problem might be with the app instead).

192.168.100.1 — This is the “backdoor” address for accessing Dishy statistics directly. Bypass mode users need to configure static routes to reach this address.

Comprehensive Troubleshooting: From Simple to Advanced

Step 1: Check the Physical Hardware

Start with what you can see and touch:

Router Light Status:

• Solid white: Router is functioning normally (problem is likely elsewhere)
• Pulsing white: Router is booting up—wait 5-10 minutes
• Solid red: Critical error detected
• No light: Power issue—check the outlet and power cable

Cable Integrity Check (Hardware-Specific):

Gen 2 (Rectangular Dish): Inspect the gray proprietary connector where it plugs into both the router and the dish mounting point. This connector must be fully seated—you should feel it click. Check for dirt, moisture, or bent pins inside the connector housing.

Gen 1 (Round Dish): Examine both the black data cable and white power cable going into the PoE injector. Verify these cables are secure in the router and firmly connected to the power brick. The PoE injector should have lights indicating power and data.

Gen 3 (Standard Kickstand): Check the standard power cable connection and verify the Ethernet cable from Dishy is plugged into the correct port on the router. Gen 3 routers have two Ethernet ports—one for the dish, one for your network.

Step 2: The Proper Power Cycle Sequence

A quick on/off doesn’t cut it. Follow this exact sequence:

1. Unplug the Starlink router completely from the wall outlet (not just the router’s power button if it has one)
2. Wait a full 2 minutes—set a timer. This allows capacitors to fully discharge and clears the router’s memory
3. Plug the router back into the wall outlet
4. Wait 5-10 minutes without touching anything. The router needs time to boot, establish a connection with the dish, and initialize all services
5. Check the Starlink app only after the full wait time

This extended power cycle resolves approximately 40% of Starlink router unreachable errors. The longer wait times matter—rushing this process means the router doesn’t fully reset.

Step 3: Isolate the Problem Source

Determine whether the router or your device is the issue:

Try Multiple Devices: Can your phone connect, but your laptop can’t? The problem is with the laptop, not the router. Can nothing connect? The router itself is likely the culprit.

Device-Specific Fixes:

Windows PC:

1. Right-click the Wi-Fi icon > Open Network & Internet Settings
2. Select “Manage known networks.”
3. Find your Starlink network and click “Forget.”
4. Restart your computer
5. Reconnect to the Starlink Wi-Fi from scratch
6. Test router access: Open Command Prompt and type ping 192.168.1.1. If you get replies, the router is reachable.

Mac:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon while holding the Option key
2. Note the IP address shown (should be 192.168.1.xxx)
3. Go to System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi > Advanced
4. Find your Starlink network, select it, and click the minus (-) button
5. Restart your Mac and reconnect

iPhone/iPad:

1. Settings > Starlink App > Enable “Local Network” (this is crucial and often missed)
2. Settings > Wi-Fi > Tap the (i) next to your Starlink network > Forget This Network
3. Toggle Airplane Mode on, wait 10 seconds, toggle off
4. Reconnect to Starlink Wi-Fi
5. As a last resort: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset > Reset Network Settings (warning: this erases all saved Wi-Fi passwords)

Step 4: The Stow & Unstow Cycle

This forces a complete re-initialization of both the dish and router—deeper than a simple power cycle:

1. Open the Starlink app using cellular data
2. Navigate to Settings > Starlink
3. Tap “STOW” and wait for the dish to fold flat (2-3 minutes)
4. Once stowed, unplug the entire system from power
5. Wait 2 full minutes
6. Plug the system back in—the dish will automatically unstow and run through its complete startup sequence (10-15 minutes)

This process resets the communication handshake between the dish and router. It’s particularly effective after firmware updates or power outages that may have left the system in an inconsistent state.

Step 5: Factory Reset (Last Resort Only)

⚠️ Warning: This erases all custom settings, including your Wi-Fi network name, password, split band settings, and any static routes you’ve configured.

Gen 3 Router Factory Reset:

Press and hold the recessed reset button on the back of the router (between the two Ethernet ports) for 5 seconds. You’ll need a paperclip or a pin. The router light will flash, then reboot.

Gen 2 Router Factory Reset:

1. Unplug the router from power
2. Plug it back in and wait 5 seconds
3. Unplug again
4. Repeat this unplug/plug cycle 6 times total
5. On the 6th plug-in, leave it connected
6. The router will factory reset and create a new default “STARLINK” or “STINKY” Wi-Fi network

After the factory reset completes (3-5 minutes), you’ll see the default Starlink network appear in your Wi-Fi list. Connect to it with no password, then open the Starlink app to configure your custom network name and password.

Advanced Scenarios & Special Cases

Using Your Own Router (Bypass Mode)

Bypass mode users face unique challenges when troubleshooting. When you enable bypass mode, the Starlink router becomes just a power supply—your personal router handles all network functions.

The Problem: The “router unreachable” message now refers to your router, not the Starlink router. The Starlink app can’t connect because your router isn’t configured to route traffic to the Starlink equipment.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Verify the Ethernet Adapter is properly connected between the Starlink cable and your router’s WAN port
2. Check that bypass mode is actually enabled in the Starlink app (Settings > Bypass Mode > toggle on)
3. Confirm your router obtained an IP address via DHCP from Starlink (should be 100.64.x.x or similar)
4. Test basic internet connectivity on a connected device

Accessing Dishy Stats in Bypass Mode:

This is where things get technical but incredibly valuable. To access the Dishy debug interface at 192.168.100.1 while using your own router, you need to configure a static route. Here’s how for popular routers:

Universal Static Route Settings:

• Network Destination: 192.168.100.0
• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
• Gateway: 192.168.100.1
• Interface: WAN

UniFi Routers:

1. Open UniFi Network Controller
2. Go to Settings > Routing & Firewall > Routes
3. Create New Route
4. Enter the static route settings above
5. Save and apply

ASUS Routers:

1. Navigate to LAN > Route tab
2. Enable static routes
3. Add a new route with the settings above
4. Click Apply

TP-Link Routers:

1. Advanced > Network > Static Routing
2. Add a new static route entry
3. Input the configuration above
4. Save settings

After configuring the static route, you’ll be able to visit http://192.168.100.1 or http://dishy.starlink.com in your browser while connected to your own router. This gives you full access to obstruction maps, detailed statistics, and debug data.

Starlink Mesh Node Issues

Mesh nodes add another layer of complexity. Here’s how to diagnose mesh-specific problems:

Check if the Main Router is Reachable: Connect a device directly to the main Starlink router’s Wi-Fi (not a mesh node). If the main router works fine, but a mesh node is unreachable, the problem is isolated to that specific node or its placement.

Mesh Node Troubleshooting:

• Verify the mesh node is within 30-50 feet of the main router (for optimal signal)
• Check for obstacles (metal, concrete walls) between the router and the node
• Power cycle the mesh node independently
• Factory reset the mesh node if it won’t pair: Hold the button on the bottom for 10 seconds until the light flashes
• Re-pair the node through the Starlink app: Settings > Add Mesh Node

After Power Outages or Firmware Updates

The system can get “stuck” after these events, particularly if power was cut during a firmware update. The symptoms often present as the router appearing unreachable even though it has power.

Best Fix: The full power cycle from Step 2 (2-minute unplug) is your most effective solution. If that doesn’t work, try the Stow & Unstow cycle from Step 4.

Firmware Update Failures: If you suspect a failed firmware update:

1. Leave the system powered on for 30 minutes—sometimes updates resume automatically
2. If still unreachable after 30 minutes, perform the full power cycle
3. Check the Starlink app for any “Update Failed” messages
4. As a last resort, factory reset the router (this won’t affect the dish firmware)

| Related: Starlink Restricted Status: Why It Happens & How to Fix It (2026)

When to Contact Starlink Support

If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps and your Starlink router unreachable error persists, it’s time for professional help. But don’t just submit a generic “it doesn’t work” ticket—gathering specific information dramatically improves response time and resolution chances.

Information to Gather Before Contacting Support

1. Your Starlink Account Number
Found in the app under Account > Service Line

2. Detailed Problem Description
Example: “Router shows unreachable error on all devices. Completed full power cycle (2-min unplug), factory reset, and stow/unstow cycle. Router light is solid white. Gen 2 rectangular dish. The issue started after the firmware update yesterday.”

3. Steps Already Taken
List everything you’ve tried from this guide. This prevents support from making you repeat troubleshooting you’ve already completed.

4. Debug Data Download
This is critical and often overlooked:

1. Open the Starlink app on cellular data
2. Navigate to Settings > Advanced > Debug Data
3. Tap “Download Debug Data”
4. Save the file and attach it to your support ticket

The debug data file contains detailed system logs that help support diagnosing hardware failures, firmware issues, and network configuration problems that aren’t visible in the app’s regular interface.

Contact Methods:

• In-App Support: Settings > Support > Create Ticket (fastest response)
• Phone Support (US/Canada): 1-866-606-5103 (US) or 1-888-864-1321 (Canada)
• Account Portal: starlink.com/account > Support

Hardware Replacement Indicators

Sometimes the router itself is defective. Consider requesting a replacement if you experience:

• The router won’t power on at all (no lights) after testing multiple outlets
• Constant overheating (router is hot to the touch even when idle)
• Physical damage (cracks, water intrusion, burn marks)
• Persistent unreachable errors across factory resets and different devices
• The router works intermittently, then fails completely

Your Path Back Online

The Starlink router unreachable error is frustrating, but it’s rarely permanent. Let’s recap the systematic approach that resolves most issues:

1. Start Simple: 30-second power cycle and cable check (fixes 60% of cases)
2. Proper Power Cycle: 2-minute unplug with 5-10 minute boot wait (adds another 20%)
3. Isolate the Device: Test multiple devices to identify if it’s the router or your device
4. Advanced Resets: Stow/unstow cycle, then factory reset as an absolute last resort
5. Bypass Mode Users: Configure static routes to regain Dishy access
6. Contact Support: With debug data and detailed documentation of the steps taken

You’ve now completed a professional-level diagnostic process. Whether you’re back online or preparing to contact support with comprehensive troubleshooting documentation, you’ve taken the right steps.

💬 Did this guide solve your router unreachable issue? Share which step worked in the comments below—your experience helps others in the Starlink community troubleshoot faster. If you’re still stuck, describe your specific setup (hardware generation, bypass mode status, exact error messages), and we’ll try to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Starlink app say “router unreachable”?

The “router unreachable” message means your device cannot communicate with the Starlink router itself, which is different from having no internet. This typically occurs due to incorrect Wi-Fi connection, a frozen router, loose cables, or the router not receiving proper power from the dish. On iPhone, ensure “Local Network” permission is enabled for the Starlink app in Settings.

How long should I unplug my Starlink router to fix unreachable errors?

Unplug your Starlink router for a full 2 minutes, not just 30 seconds. This extended wait time allows capacitors to fully discharge and clears the router’s memory completely. After plugging it back in, wait 5-10 minutes without interruption for the complete boot sequence and connection establishment with the dish.

Will a factory reset fix my Starlink router unreachable issue?

A factory reset can fix persistent unreachable errors, but use it as a last resort. It erases all custom settings including your Wi-Fi name, password, and static routes. For Gen 3 routers, hold the reset button for 5 seconds. For Gen 2 routers, unplug and plug the power cable 6 times in succession. Try a proper 2-minute power cycle first.

Can I access Dishy stats in bypass mode when the router is unreachable?

Yes, but you need to configure a static route on your personal router. Add these settings: Network Destination 192.168.100.0, Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0, Gateway 192.168.100.1, Interface WAN. After configuring, visit http://192.168.100.1 or http://dishy.starlink.com to access full Dishy statistics and debug data.

What’s the difference between “router unreachable” and “Starlink offline”?

“Router unreachable” means your device cannot connect to the router itself, preventing both internet access and router configuration. “Starlink offline” means the router is accessible but the dish cannot connect to satellites. Router unreachable is a local network issue, while Starlink offline indicates a dish-to-satellite problem requiring obstruction checks or dish repositioning.

How do I fix router unreachable on Starlink mesh nodes?

First, verify the main Starlink router is reachable by connecting directly to it. If only a mesh node is unreachable, ensure it’s within 30-50 feet of the main router, check for metal/concrete obstacles, and power cycle the mesh node independently. Factory reset the node by holding the bottom button for 10 seconds, then re-pair through Settings > Add Mesh Node in the Starlink app.