ezeep Tests Starlink for Remote Internet Connections

Remote work and digital transformation demand reliable internet, even in locations without traditional broadband. Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, promises to deliver stable and fast internet access directly from orbit. ezeep thoroughly tested Starlink to assess its suitability for remote offices, construction sites, and event venues, particularly for critical functions like cloud printing.

Many commercial enterprises rely on professionals working from home, but this often requires a powerful internet connection. Starlink offers a new solution for areas lacking broadband, providing high-speed internet via satellite.

What is Starlink and How Fast Is It?

Starlink is a satellite internet solution from Space X. The company has deployed approximately 1800 near-Earth satellites (as of June 2021), with plans to expand this network to 13,000. Starlink holds all necessary frequency rights and aims for global availability, with service rolling out in Germany from mid-2021.

Tests conducted by ezeep in its Berlin office confirm Starlink's speed. While bandwidth fluctuates, it consistently delivers impressive performance. Measurements typically showed speeds around 150 Mbit/s, with lows of 70 Mbit/s and highs occasionally exceeding 240 Mbit/s.

Latency times, although not outstanding, are well within a highly usable range and significantly better than what's typically expected from satellite connections. These speeds significantly surpass the average internet connection in Germany, which is around 15 Mbit/s.

Notably, bad weather, specifically rain, did not negatively impact Starlink's bandwidth during our testing.

Can You Print with Starlink in a Remote Office?

Yes, printing via Starlink is just as fast and stable as expected for a connection with this bandwidth. ezeep extensively tested typical remote office applications, including Azure Virtual Desktop, video calls with Teams, and printing through ezeep and ThinPrint. All applications performed without issues over the Starlink connection.

This makes Starlink an excellent choice for connecting construction sites, festivals, and other locations with unstable internet. Future plans even include mobile use for ships and aircraft. Soon, it will be possible to quickly print construction plans for building inspections, concert tickets at festivals, or ferry tickets in remote ports.

Who Benefits from Starlink's Remote Internet?

Starlink internet makes powerful web access available to more people globally, especially in regions with underdeveloped public internet infrastructure. Even in areas like Berlin, Germany, where comprehensive digitalization is still expanding, this technology offers many advantages.

Company offices, construction sites, event locations, and rural home offices will particularly benefit. These are often the areas where traditional broadband connections lack the necessary performance.

What Are Starlink Costs and Contract Conditions?

Starlink's cost is competitive for users without other high-speed internet options. The hardware is priced at $499 / £439, with a monthly service fee of $99 / £89. While these are not small amounts, the FAQs indicate flexibility, promising contract pauses and the ability to change service addresses.

This flexibility makes Starlink a viable option for temporary use. However, national borders are a consideration; it is not yet possible to change the service address to another country.