A POPULAR broadband alternative used by thousands of Brits has warned some customers their internet device could be rendered permanently useless unless an important update is installed fast.
Starlink has some 87,000 users in the UK.
The Elon Musk-owned service relies on satellites to beam internet down instead of traditional cabinets on the ground.
Starlink has been particularly handy for those in rural areas with poor broadband connectivity available.
It’s popular because there are more than 8,400 active Starlink satellites, making it the largest satellite constellation around.
Some people have a Starlink dish as a back-up if their usual internet connection goes down or for occasional roaming if they’re on the move.
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It’s these customers that don’t have their kit plugged in for regular use that are being warned they need to update very soon.
An email has gone out cautioning them of a “critical update” that needs to be installed.
And failure to do so by November 17 will leave their kit “permanently inoperable”.
“This is part of ongoing improvements to enhance security, performance, and reliability across the Starlink network,” the company says.
“Only customers who received an email or in-app notification need to take action.
“Each message includes a Terminal Identification Number (UTID) identifying which Starlink kit(s) are affected.”
It adds: “If your Starlink is already powered on and connected, the update should apply automatically.”
Fortunately, you don’t need an active service line to complete this update and “will not be charged”, Starlink’s website explains.
The firm has published a page detailing how to go about installing the update.
Why are Starlink satellites so bright?
You might spot a Starlink satellite in the sky and mistake it for a star due to how bright they appear.
However, they don’t actually produce their own light.
What you’re seeing is light being reflected off the solar panels of Starlink satellites.
They’re also very close to Earth in the grand scheme of things, so it’s no surprise we can see them with the naked eye.
According to Musk, the shine is particularly noticeable when the satellites are rising to orbit altitude, due to the angle of the panels.
And some Starlink satellites are now designed to reduce this nighttime visibility.
Image credit: NWS Seattle
