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No Device is Truly Secure: Lessons from Starlink and OpenWrt

Siva
2 min readNov 21, 2024

In today’s hyperconnected world, no device is immune to vulnerabilities. From smartphones to IoT gadgets, every device with network connectivity is a potential target. Even cutting-edge technology like the Starlink router, designed to support global satellite internet, is not an exception.

The Starlink Router: Innovation Meets Responsibility

Starlink’s router, which reportedly uses an OpenWrt-based firmware, exemplifies the balance between open-source flexibility and proprietary innovation. OpenWrt, a robust Linux-based firmware, offers unparalleled customization for networking devices. However, with great flexibility comes the need for vigilance.

CVE-2023–52235 is a stark reminder of this. The vulnerability, affecting OpenWrt-based systems, underscores that even sophisticated firmware isn’t immune to flaws. This issue could allow unauthorized access or privilege escalation, putting user networks at risk.

The Myth of a “Forever Secure” System

Many users fall into the trap of thinking that once they set up a router, it’s a “set-it-and-forget-it” device. This is far from the truth. The Starlink router, like all network devices, requires regular updates to stay secure against evolving threats.

While OpenWrt empowers tech-savvy users to modify and customize firmware, it doesn’t create a bulletproof system. Vulnerabilities like…

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