I am always surprised by the numbers of people who don't check out their benefits (I likely was guilty at one time too but after embarrassing moments, I usually go read to see if I had something wrong . . . )

For those who don't know their Star Gold/Silver benefits, here they are alliance-wide (and yes some airlines treat their own Star Silver with a few extra benefits but don't expect them on other Star carriers, e.g. priority airport check-in, lounge access):

http://www.staralliance.com/en/trave...er_status.html

Star Alliance Gold Benefits
Priority Reservations Waitlisting1 - when there aren't any seats left on your preferred flight, gives you priority should a seat become available.
Priority Airport Standby - gives you top priority when standing-by a flight at the airport.1
Priority Airport Check-in - allows you to check-in at the Business and/or First Class counter
Priority Baggage Handling - like you, your bags get priority treatment and are among the first to be unloaded.
Extra Baggage Allowance - an additional 20kg (44 pounds) or one additional piece of luggage2 which means you can check in three bags instead of two.
Priority Boarding3 - enjoy the freedom of boarding at your convenience along with First and Business Class passengers.
Airport Lounge Access - available worldwide for you and a friend4 when you travel with any Star Alliance member airline, regardless of your class of travel.

Star Alliance Silver Benefits
Priority Reservations Waitlisting1 - when there aren't any seats left on your preferred flight, gives you priority should a seat become available.
Priority Airport Standby - gives you top priority when standing by for a flight at the airport.1

As you can see don't expect much from Silver status . . .
1.Not permitted for Star Alliance Award tickets.
2.Applies on flights between North and South America.
3.Where available.
4.Guests must enter with eligible Star Alliance Gold customer and must depart on a Star Alliance airline, though not necessarily on the same flight.

Status level benefits vary among frequent flyer programmes.