SpaceX appears to be preparing Starlink’s first Wi-Fi 7 router, and the upgrade could make home networking smoother for users with multiple connected devices.
New FCC documents reveal a Starlink router listed under the model number UTR-261. The filing suggests this device is a successor to the Router Mini, also known as UTR-251, which previously became one of Starlink’s newest router options. Unlike earlier Starlink routers that relied on Wi-Fi 6, the UTR-261 is built around Wi-Fi 7 technology.
The filing references 802.11be, including EHT20 and EHT40 modes, which confirms support for Wi-Fi 7. For everyday users, this could mean better local network performance, lower latency, and improved handling of several phones, laptops, smart TVs, consoles, and smart home devices connected at the same time.
However, it is important to note that Wi-Fi 7 will not automatically make the Starlink satellite internet connection faster. Current Starlink dish speeds are still generally limited to around 400 Mbps, which is far below what Wi-Fi 7 hardware can technically support. The real internet speed improvements will depend on future upgrades to Starlink satellites and user terminals. SpaceX has previously signaled that it wants Starlink to eventually move toward gigabit-level service, but that will require more than just a new router.
The UTR-261 also appears to bring useful hardware improvements. Diagrams included in the FCC filing show two Ethernet ports and a USB-C port. That is a notable step up from the Router Mini, which includes only one Ethernet port. Extra Ethernet connectivity could make the new router more practical for users who want wired connections for gaming PCs, desktop computers, network switches, or home office equipment.
Another interesting detail is support for Power over Ethernet, also known as PoE. This means the router may be able to receive power through an Ethernet cable in addition to using a standard AC power adapter. PoE support can make installation cleaner and more flexible, especially in setups where reducing cable clutter matters.
For now, the router’s final design remains unknown. SpaceX requested that the FCC keep images, manuals, and other detailed materials confidential for 180 days. Because of that, there are no public photos showing what the UTR-261 looks like yet.
The filing does confirm that the router is manufactured in Vietnam and is intended for indoor use only. This detail is notable because Starlink recently received a temporary exception related to restrictions on newly approved foreign-made routers, which may have been necessary before this Vietnam-made device could move toward availability in the United States.
The new Wi-Fi 7 router also comes as Starlink continues updating its hardware lineup. SpaceX recently introduced the Starlink V5 dish, a smaller and lighter model compared with the previous V4 dish. The V5 also uses less power, making it more efficient for many home users.
Still, the newer dish includes some trade-offs. It is not designed for use while in motion, and its advertised top speed is slightly lower at 375+ Mbps. It also launched without Standby Mode, a feature that allows V4 users to keep a reduced-speed connection active instead of paying full price or canceling service entirely.
If the UTR-261 reaches the market, it could become an important upgrade for Starlink customers who want a more modern home network. While it may not increase satellite download speeds on its own, Wi-Fi 7 support, dual Ethernet ports, USB-C, and Power over Ethernet could make the overall Starlink setup faster, cleaner, and more capable for connected homes.
