Tezzbuzz Desk- Elon Musk's company Starlink provides internet service through satellite. Along with providing connectivity to remote areas, this technology is also in the news for internet shutdown and government control. Know how Starlink works and whether it is possible to stay online through it even when the internet is down.
Internet has become an important part of our lives today. From mobile networks to broadband, most Internet services operate through mobile towers, fiber cables and ground network infrastructure. But when internet services are banned in any area, people's online activities are affected. In such a situation, satellite internet has emerged as an alternative technology. Elon Musk's company Starlink uses this technology. Its network provides internet through satellites located in low Earth orbit. However, there are some challenges associated with its technology.
How does Starlink's internet work?
In traditional Internet services, data reaches the user through mobile towers, fiber optic cables and other network equipment. At the same time, Starlink uses a network of satellites present in low Earth orbit. For this the user needs a special satellite dish, router and electricity.
When a person uses the Internet from his mobile or laptop, his device connects to the router. The dish then communicates with the satellite network and the data reaches the Internet. Communication between satellites and gateway stations on the ground can also play an important role in Starlink's network.
Starlink satellites are relatively close to the Earth. Therefore it can take less time to send and receive data than traditional geostationary satellite Internet. This technology can be useful for villages, hilly areas and remote places where it is difficult to lay fiber cables or reach mobile networks.
What is Starlink's biggest problem?
The most important questions regarding Starlink are related to internet shutdown, government control and national security. When internet services are banned by a government, instructions can be given to local telecom companies and internet service providers. But since the satellite internet network is different from traditional connectivity, a different technical and regulatory system may be required to control it.
Takshila Institution's report 'Starlink and Risks for India' also discusses the potential risks associated with this technology in the Indian context. The satellite internet service provider's network may be separate from the local telecom infrastructure, so simply shutting down a mobile tower does not automatically shut down Starlink's connection.
However, this does not mean that Starlink is impossible to control. The company may limit or stop service in a specified area. Connectivity can be controlled based on geographical area through technologies like geofencing. In addition, governments can also establish control through licensing rules, regulation of equipment, and coordination with the company.
Will Starlink work even during internet shutdown?
The answer depends on what steps have been taken to shut down the Internet. If only mobile towers are down in an area or the local fiber network is disrupted, Starlink may work. For this, it is necessary that the service is active in the concerned area and the necessary equipment is available with the user.
But if Starlink's service is banned, the company stops connectivity in that area or access to the satellite network is disrupted, then it will not be possible to use the Internet. Its equipment will not function even if the power supply is cut off unless they are powered from an alternative power source. Additionally, the dish needs enough open sky to connect to the satellite.
Why did Starlink come into discussion in Iran?
Starlink's role has been in the news during internet restrictions in Iran. There were protests following the custodial death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. At that time questions also arose regarding access to the Internet and digital services. The US had taken steps to increase access to digital communication services for the people of Iran. On September 24, 2022, Elon Musk shared information related to activating Starlink service.
The availability of Starlink amid internet restrictions also became a topic of discussion during the conflict between Iran and Israel in June 2025. These events demonstrated that satellite Internet can provide alternative connectivity in some circumstances. However, its availability depends on government restrictions, technical conditions and company decisions.
What are the questions regarding Starlink in India?
Satellite internet in India can be helpful in providing connectivity to remote areas. But for its operation, government approval, spectrum related rules, security requirements and compliance with local laws are necessary. The challenge before the government will be to ensure that such services operate within the rules and that regulatory directives can be implemented when necessary.
Overall, Starlink is a new option for internet connectivity, which can reduce dependence on traditional networks. But it would not be right to consider it as a technology safe from all types of internet shutdowns. Its availability depends on devices, power, network coverage, company policies and government regulations.