Starlink Internet: what is it and how does it work?

Etienne DETRIE (UK)
24 Feb 2025

Satellite Internet has always been an alternative to traditional solutions, but with the arrival of Starlink, satellite connectivity has taken a quantum leap in terms of performance and accessibility. Developed by SpaceX, Starlink promises high-speed Internet access even in the most remote areas. But how does this technology work, and why should you choose this solution?

Starlink: what is SpaceX's satellite Internet?

Starlink is a satellite Internet service developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX. The aim is to provide high-speed Internet access worldwide, particularly in regions poorly served by terrestrial infrastructures like fibre optics or ADSL.

The service is based on a constellation of thousands of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, located at an altitude of around 550 km. Unlike traditional geo-stationary satellites (located 36,000 km away), Starlink's satellites deliver significantly reduced latency, enhancing the user experience for streaming, online gaming and video calls.

Illustration-starlink-multilangue (2)

Starlink Internet: how does it work?

Starlink's operation is based on three main components:

  1. A constellation of low-orbit satellites: These receive and transmit data to users via ground stations and an inter-satellite relay network.
  2. A Starlink satellite dish: Subscribers must install a special dish to receive the signal from the Starlink satellites and ensure a stable Internet connection.
  3. A WiFi router: This connects home or office devices to the Starlink Internet network.

Installation is relatively straightforward and requires no advanced technical skills. Once the antenna is correctly oriented towards the sky, it begins an automatic calibration process. This process involves the antenna adjusting its position and parameters to establish an optimum connection with orbiting satellites.

Thanks to built-in sensors and sophisticated software, the antenna can detect the position of the satellites and align itself precisely to ensure high-quality signal reception. This intelligent system minimises service interruptions and ensures a stable, reliable Internet connection, even in variable weather conditions. Once calibration is complete, users can enjoy a fast, efficient Internet connection without having to worry about complex manual settings.

Why choose Starlink Internet?

Starlink offers several significant advantages over traditional Internet solutions:

  • Worldwide coverage: Ideal for rural areas, mountains, deserts or isolated zones where conventional infrastructures are unavailable.
  • High throughput and low latency: with fibre-like speeds under certain conditions.
  • Quick and easy installation: No need for heavy construction work or complex technical interventions.
  • Mobility: "Starlink for motorhomes" version enables connection on the move.

What Internet speeds does Starlink deliver?

Starlink performance varies according to region and network congestion, but on average, subscribers can expect :

  • Download speeds of between 100 and 250 Mbps
  • Upload speeds of between 10 and 40 Mbps
  • Latency between 20 and 40 ms

As the constellation continues to improve and new satellites are launched, these figures should continue to improve.

Starlink Internet FAQs

How much does Starlink cost?

The price of a Starlink consumer subscription varies from country to country and from offer to offer:

  • Basic kit (antenna + router): Approx. €450 to €700
  • Monthly subscription: Between €50 and €100

Professional packages with superior performances are also available.

Starlink Internet: how can it be used? 

Starlink is particularly suited to :

  • Rural areas without fibre or quality ADSL
  • Businesses needing a secondary or redundant connection
  • Isolated sites like construction sites, scientific bases, farms
  • People on the move like digital nomads and camping enthusiasts

Who owns Starlink?

Starlink is a subsidiary of SpaceX, an innovative and pioneering aerospace company founded by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk in 2002. SpaceX has rapidly established itself as a world leader thanks to its revolutionary technological advances, such as the development of reusable rockets and the lower cost of travel to space. SpaceX's ambitious goal is to make space exploration more accessible and prepare mankind to become a multi-planetary species. Within this framework, Starlink plays a crucial role in providing high-speed Internet connectivity on a global scale, particularly in regions where traditional infrastructures are insufficient. This initiative is part of SpaceX's wider vision to transform the way we live and communicate, while opening up new prospects for humanity's future in space.

Who installs Starlink in UK?

Installation is straightforward, and can be carried out by the client user themselves. However, some resellers like Wifirst offer turnkey solutions for businesses.

Is Starlink suitable for businesses?

Yes, Starlink offers specific packages for businesses, with more stable speeds, priority of service and the possibility of subscribing to several simultaneous connections.

📡 → DISCOVER STARLINK PRO

Is Starlink legal in UK?

Yes, Starlink is legal and operational in the UK. The UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, has granted Starlink the necessary licenses to operate within the country. This includes licenses for six satellite gateway sites and for user terminals, enabling Starlink to provide satellite internet services across the UK.

Is Starlink profitable?

For individuals in urban areas, Starlink can be more expensive than fibre. However, for areas not covered by high-performance networks, it is a cost-effective and efficient solution.

Is Starlink faster than fiber?

Under optimal conditions, Starlink offers speeds very close to those of fibre. However, fibre is generally faster and more stable, with even lower latencies.


Conclusion

Starlink represents a revolution in satellite Internet, providing a high-performance solution where other technologies fail. Whether for individuals in remote areas or businesses looking for reliable connectivity, Starlink offers a quality alternative.

At Wifirst, we offer Starlink solutions tailored to the needs of professionals. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information!