Technology
FCC imposes restrictions on foreign-made consumer internet routers citing national security concerns
Wired reports that federal regulators have banned new foreign-manufactured networking hardware while granting temporary approvals to several major brands.
The short version
- The Federal Communications Commission banned new foreign-made consumer routers over security concerns, Wired reports.[Wired]
- Existing devices in homes can still be used, with software update waivers extended at least until 2029.[Wired]
- Multiple major companies including Netgear, Eero, Asus, and Arcadyan received conditional sales approvals.[Wired]
Key facts
- In March, the FCC banned new consumer internet routers manufactured outside the US due to national security concerns.[Wired]
- The FCC stated that security gaps in foreign-made routers have been used to attack households and conduct espionage.[Wired]
- Software and firmware update waivers for existing routers were extended through at least January 1, 2029.[Wired]
- Conditional approvals were granted to companies like Netgear, Eero, Asus, and Arcadyan into late 2027 and 2028.[Wired]
What remains uncertain
- It remains uncertain how manufacturers will transition supply chains or if conditional approvals will be permanently renewed after their multi-year expiration dates.[Wired]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.