Should I reboot Starlink or factory reset the router when it stops working?
A reboot restarts equipment; a factory reset returns the router to its initial configuration and can remove your Wi-Fi settings. For an unexplained connection problem, check the cause before choosing the more disruptive option.
Starlink's Standard setup guide starts with app alerts, the router light and cable checks before progressing to a power cycle and factory reset. Our practical checklist is:
- Identify the scope. Is every device offline, or only one phone, television or computer?
- Read the app. Record any outage, obstruction or equipment alert and the time it appeared.
- Check the basics safely. Confirm power and accessible connections; do not open electrical equipment or handle damaged parts.
- Try an ordinary restart if appropriate. Follow the instructions for your model and allow it to finish starting before judging the result.
- Reserve a factory reset for a clear reason. Use the matching official procedure when troubleshooting directs you to reset, or when recovery of the router's configuration requires it.
Before resetting, record the network details and consider which cameras, printers or other devices might need reconnecting. Reset controls differ by generation, so do not copy a rapid power-cycling sequence from a different model.
A reset cannot clear a tree from the dish's view or resolve a wider provider outage. If the same fault returns, collect the alerts and steps already tried for support.
Read our reboot and factory-reset guide.
Official reference: Starlink Standard setup and troubleshooting guide. Its physical reset instructions apply to the hardware shown.
Reviewed: 23 September 2026.
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