NOC Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Title: Enabling Bypass Mode
Owner: Network Operations Center (NOC)
Maintained by: Chris Horton, NOC Technician
Approved by: Corey Buchanan, IT Manager
Version: 1.0
Effective Date: October 23, 2025
Purpose:
To provide a standardized, verified, and documented method for enabling Bypass Mode on Starlink systems. This mode allows the use of third-party networking equipment while disabling Starlink’s integrated WiFi router functionality to ensure optimal performance and configuration flexibility.
Scope:
This SOP applies to all NOC Technicians performing remote configuration changes on customer Starlink systems where third-party routers or firewalls are being deployed.
It includes support for Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 Starlink hardware models.
Responsibilities:
NOC Technicians:
- Validate that all prerequisites are met prior to enabling bypass mode.
- Navigate to the appropriate terminal’s configuration page within the Starlink Dashboard.
- Execute and confirm bypass mode activation.
- Log all changes and verification steps.
IT Manager:
- Provide oversight for critical or non-standard configuration changes.
- Approve exceptions and monitor for recurring issues.
- Conduct periodic audits for accuracy and compliance.
Other Departments (if applicable):
- Provide coordination or information support for customer-facing updates or escalations.
Prerequisites
Before enabling Bypass Mode, confirm the following:
- Terminal is online and communicating with Starlink servers.
- Router is online and accessible through the Starlink Dashboard.
- Customer has acknowledged third-party equipment usage requirements.
Procedure
Step 1: Access the Terminal
- Navigate to the target terminal’s page in the Starlink Dashboard.
- Confirm you are working on the correct account and terminal ID.
Step 2: Locate the Wi-Fi Settings
Scroll to the Devices section and select the Wi-Fi tab.
Step 3: Enable Bypass Mode
Click Set Bypass Mode to initiate the configuration change.
Step 4: Confirm Warning Prompt
When prompted, acknowledge and accept the risk warning regarding WiFi disablement.
Step 5: Verify Configuration Change
- Confirm Bypass Mode Enabled message or equivalent confirmation within the dashboard.
- Validate loss of Starlink WiFi broadcast (SSID no longer visible).
Step 6: Document the Change
Log all relevant details in ClickUp under the associated terminal’s task or service ticket.
Include:
- Terminal ID
- Time of change
- Confirmation of success or error encountered
- Technician initials
Escalation Path
If bypass mode fails to enable or presents unexpected errors:
- Senior NOC Technician – Review logs, configuration, and system status.
- IT Manager (Corey Buchanan) – Approve or coordinate escalation.
- Starlink Vendor Support – Contact only with prior approval.
Documentation & Logging
All bypass mode changes must be documented.
Include the following:
- Terminal ID
- Time of change
- Confirmation of success
- Any errors or deviations from expected outcome
Tag recurring hardware- or version-specific issues for tracking and reporting.
Important Notes
Standard (Rectangular) Starlink – Gen 2 Router
- Enabling bypass mode disables the built-in Starlink WiFi router.
- Requires the Ethernet adapter to connect a third-party router.
High Performance / Flat High Performance – Gen 2 Router
- Includes power supply-to-RJ45 cable option for external routers.
- Bypass mode requires removal of the included router — only third-party equipment remains active.
Standard (Circular) Starlink – Gen 1 Router
- Bypass mode not supported via the Starlink app.
- Router must be physically removed and replaced with a third-party router.
Gen 3 Router
- Bypass mode is fully supported within the app and dashboard interface.
Revision History
Version | Date | Description | Updated By |
1.0 | October 23, 2025 | Initial SOP Creation | Chris Horton |
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