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2h ago

FCC Blocks New Foreign-Made Home Routers on Security Grounds

The decision pushes router makers toward U.S. production through a strict, time-limited exemption process.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) logo is seen before the FCC Net Neutrality hearing in Washington, February 26, 2015.
Ethernet cables are seen running from the back of a wireless router.
Image
Netgear Orbi 370 Wi-Fi 7 mesh router

Overview

  • The FCC, which updated its Covered List Monday, barred authorization of all new consumer-grade routers made abroad, citing a March 20 security finding that they create supply-chain and cyber risks and were used in the Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon attacks.
  • Routers that already have FCC authorization can still be imported and sold, and people can keep using devices they own, with software updates allowed at least through March 1, 2027.
  • Companies can seek conditional approvals from the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security that require detailed supply‑chain disclosures and a time‑bound plan to shift manufacturing to the U.S., with approvals lasting up to 18 months.
  • The shift hits brands that make gear abroad — including TP-Link, Netgear, Google Nest, Eero, Cisco, Linksys, and ASUS — with SpaceX’s Texas-made Starlink router a rare exception.
  • Because most home routers are built overseas and roughly 60% of U.S. sales are tied to China-linked supply, analysts expect fewer new models, supply strain, higher prices, and likely legal challenges.