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What are the pros and cons of installing Starlink?


Starlink is a relatively new entrant into the WiFi market and doesn’t rely on the traditional fibre or landline. So how does it work and what are the benefits? We asked our Managing Director, Simon Little to explain.



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Q: Simon, can you explain what Starlink is and how it works?

Simon Little: Starlink is a game-changer for broadband, especially in rural and remote areas where traditional internet providers struggle to deliver fast, reliable connections.

It’s a satellite-based system designed by SpaceX that uses a network of low-Earth orbit satellites to beam high-speed internet to a dish at your property. Unlike older satellite internet, which is often slow and unreliable, Starlink’s low orbit means it can deliver speeds comparable to fibre broadband, with minimal latency.


Q: Sounds impressive! How can Starlink help people in remote areas?

Simon Little: One of Starlink’s main advantages is that it doesn’t rely on traditional infrastructure like cables or phone lines. If you’re in a remote village or on farmland in the countryside where broadband speeds are painfully slow, Starlink provides an alternative that’s fast, efficient, and easy to set up. The dish communicates directly with the satellites, so as long as you’ve got a clear view of the sky, you’re good to go. That’s a huge boost for businesses, remote workers, and families who’ve been stuck with limited options.

Q: What’s involved in getting Starlink installed? Is it something NMA can help with?

Simon Little: Absolutely. While Starlink is marketed as “plug and play,” installation isn’t always straightforward—especially in rural or tricky locations. That’s where our engineers come in. We can help you identify the best spot for your dish to ensure a clear line of sight to the satellites, whether that’s on your roof, a wall, or even a pole in your field. We’ve got the tools and expertise to mount and securely fix the dish, run any cabling you need, and make sure the system is working perfectly before we leave.


Q: What if someone isn’t sure if Starlink is the right option for them? Can you advise on that?

Simon Little: Of course. Deciding if Starlink is right for you depends on your location, internet needs, and budget. Our team can provide honest, practical advice based on your specific circumstances. We’ll look at things like whether you’ve got other options available—like fibre broadband—and whether Starlink’s performance and cost are a good fit for you. We’re here to help you make an informed decision.


Q: Let’s talk practicalities. What do people need to know about Starlink’s costs?

Simon Little: The upfront cost for Starlink is higher than most standard broadband setups. At the time of writing, the hardware—which includes the dish and router—costs £299. Then there’s the monthly subscription, which is around £75. It’s definitely an investment, but for people in remote areas where traditional broadband doesn’t cut it, it can be worth every penny. Plus, there’s no lengthy contract—you pay month-to-month, so you’re not locked in if it’s not right for you.


Q: Is Starlink reliable in all weather conditions?

Simon Little: Starlink is designed to handle tough conditions. The dish is snow-resistant and has built-in heating to melt snow. That said, very heavy rain or storms can sometimes affect the signal temporarily, as with any satellite system. The key is proper installation to ensure you’re getting the strongest, most reliable signal possible—another reason to call in our engineers.


Q: Are there any other considerations for people thinking about Starlink?

Simon Little: Yes. Because the dish needs a clear view of the sky, trees, buildings, or other obstacles can block the signal. This is why a proper site survey is so important. At NMA, we’ll assess your property and find the optimal placement for the dish, avoiding any obstructions. Also, bear in mind that Starlink relies on electricity to power the dish and router, so you’ll need to factor in a small increase in your energy usage.


Q: What’s the installation process like with NMA?

Simon Little: It’s simple and stress-free. We’ll schedule a visit to carry out a site survey, recommend the best setup, help with ordering your Starlink kit and install the system. Our engineers are experienced, professional, and friendly, so you can trust you’re in good hands. We’ll test everything to make sure it’s working perfectly and leave you with a system that’s ready to go.


Q: Why should someone choose NMA for their Starlink installation?

Simon Little: We’ve been helping people across Suffolk with aerials, satellites, and broadband solutions for years, so we know what we’re doing. Our engineers understand the challenges of rural installations and have the expertise to overcome them. Whether it’s mounting your dish, running cables, or just giving you advice, we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. Plus, we’re local, so we’re just a phone call away if you need ongoing support.


Q: How can someone get started?

Simon Little: If you’re interested in Starlink or want to find out if it’s right for you, give us a call or drop us a message. We’re happy to chat, answer your questions, and arrange a site visit if needed. Starlink has the potential to transform internet access for people in remote areas, and we’re here to help make it happen.

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