Can a Starlink Router Be Outside? (Is Starlink Waterproof?)
When you need the internet to stay connected with family and friends, having the right router setup makes everything go smoothly. That includes trying to keep your router outside so it gets the best signal. This is possible with some models of routers.
The Starlink router is rated IP 54 which tells you that it is waterproof and that it can be placed outside if that is what works best for your RV situation. The only problem is to not have it placed directly in the sunlight or you may have other problems to deal with.
To learn more about this possibility, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about so you can get top internet signals no matter where you go. The Starlink router is said to be built tough
Is The Starlink Router Waterproof?
It will take a little explanation about the IP rating before we get to the answer to this question. IP stands for Ingress Protection and this is the name of the standard that is used to determine how well a device resists both dust and water.
There are two scales involved in this system. The first number refers to the solid resistance of the device. For example, this scale goes from 0 to 6 and the 5 rating (IP54 Starlink’s router rating) says the router can withstand dust and other solid particles very well.
The second digit is the scale for the liquid resistance and that scale goes from 0 to 9. The 4 in this case is not very good and tells you that the router is not waterproof but water resistant.
The Starlink router is rated IP 54 and it is configured more for indoor use than outdoor use. It is dust protected but not waterproof. You may only get protection against splashing water but not a downpour.
Can a Starlink Router Get Wet?
Yes, the Starlink router can get wet but only momentarily. As we explained, its current rating is not a rating for waterproofing. It is more water resistant and if you keep the router outside in inclement weather, you may need to buy a new router soon.
To be waterproof and protected against rain and storms, you would have to see the IP rating of the router go from IP 54 to IP 57 or 8, or 9. The higher the number in the rating for both scales the better protected your equipment will be.
This rating is not just for internet routers. It is for many electronic devices and it is a rating system you should be familiar with. That way you can buy the best equipment possible and not worry that much if they are exposed to outside weather conditions.
The antenna for the standard Starlink system is also rated at IP54 but it is supposed to be kept outside so you may have a lot of leeway with your router as some owners have reported.
If you want a higher IP-rated antenna you have to upgrade to the high-performance or the flat high-performance models.
Can a Starlink Router Be Outside?
Yes, it can and there are some unique situations that will require you to do this from time to time. The key is that you should place it in a nice weather-proof container. While it has an IP54 rating, that does not mean it can sit in the open without any protection.
Some owners have placed their routers in an older battery box they are no longer using. Then they place it on the frame somewhere to make sure the weather does not get to the router.
To decide if you can put the router outside you do need to consider the following factors:
1. The weather- if it is too cold, then no you cannot do this. The operating temperature for the router is -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C). Plus, if there is a lot of rain, wind, and dust around, you should take special precautions and use a weatherproof box.
2. Location & accessibility- the router provides power to the dish. This means that wherever you place the router, it will need an AC power source connected to it.
Then, the location needs to be accessed safely and easily. This is for maintenance and troubleshooting times.
These are the main two factors you have to be concerned about. The other factors will be determined by if you are out camping, at home, and so on. Building codes may play a role in where you place the router and the dish.
Where Should a Starlink Router Be Placed?
According to the Starlink website, the router is designed for inside installation. That instruction is for all three levels of the dish and router. When you go to install this device take stock of your situation as you may have to move it outside due to obstructions.
While it is designed for interior installation, there will be situations where you will have to take it outside. The key is to make sure the power source can go to that location and that there are no obstructions in your router’s way.
Make sure to use the right container when you place it outside but before you do that, make sure to read the company’s limited warranty. They have a lot of exclusions and placing it outside may not be in your best interests.
Some Additional Words
Setting up your Starlink may take you outside. But before you do that, make sure you have the best protection for the router. The IP54 rating does not make it waterproof so be careful of what other owners say that they do.
Also, watch your camping and other locations. Obstructions will keep you from enjoying the Starlink services as well as make you relocate the router outside. Their website will provide you with a lot of information to help you when you buy this system.
