Starlink, the global satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, has issued an urgent update notice to select customers, requiring them to update their Starlink equipment by November 17, 2025. The company stated that the update is crucial to enhance security, performance, and reliability across its growing network infrastructure. Customers who fail to complete the required update risk losing internet access or facing permanent inoperability of their Starlink devices.

Who Is Affected by the Starlink Update Notice

According to Starlink, the mandatory update applies to two groups of customers:

1. Hardware Update Group: Users who received the “Action Required: Plug in for critical update” notification. These customers must plug in their Starlink terminal by November 17 to automatically install the update. Failure to do so will render their devices permanently inoperable.
2. Software Update Group: Customers who received the “Action Required: Update Software” message. These users must complete a manual software update through the Starlink app. Starting November 18, devices that remain unupdated will be unable to connect to the internet until the process is completed.

Starlink emphasized that only customers who received an official email or in-app notification need to take action. Each message contains a unique Starlink ID (UTID) tied to the specific kit that requires the update.

How to Complete the Starlink Update

For users required to perform the critical update, Starlink advises the following steps:

• Place the Starlink terminal outdoors for a clear signal.
• Plug in the terminal and allow the system to connect automatically.
• The update will install within 15–30 minutes without user intervention.

For those performing a software update:

• Connect to the Starlink Wi-Fi network.
• Open the Starlink mobile app and follow on-screen prompts.
• The update typically takes less than one minute to complete.

Starlink confirmed that users will not be charged for keeping their devices plugged in during the update process, and an active service subscription is not required to complete it.

Software Versions Affected

The update affects customers based on their Starlink software version:

• Versions earlier than 2024.05.0: Must connect and update before November 17, 2025, or the devices will become permanently inoperable.
• Versions 2024.05.0 to 2024.12.26: Must sideload the update via the Starlink app before the deadline to maintain connectivity.
• Versions after 2024.12.26: No immediate action required.

Why the Update Is Critical

Starlink explained that the mandatory update ensures compatibility with new system protocols and access to future network upgrades. It is also part of SpaceX’s broader effort to improve internet speed, reliability, and cybersecurity for Starlink’s expanding global user base.

Customers who are unable to access their Starlink terminals before the November 17 deadline are encouraged to contact Starlink Support for assistance in completing the update.