FCC Bans Foreign Wi-Fi Routers: What You Need to Know

As of March 23, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has enacted a ban on newly manufactured foreign-made Wi-Fi routers. This directive aims to bolster the security of US cyberspace and critical infrastructure. Existing, previously authorized routers are exempt from this ban, meaning users do not need to replace their current devices immediately.

Manufacturers can apply for exemptions to sell new models. To date, Netgear and Eero are the only companies that have received "Conditional Approval" from the FCC. This ban impacts nearly every router available in the US, as a significant portion of routers are manufactured outside the country, with an estimated 60% originating from China.

The FCC stated that foreign-produced routers have been implicated in several cyberattacks, including Salt Typhoon, which exploited routers to access networks of major US internet providers. Cybersecurity experts note that while the intent is to address real threats, the ban is a broad measure that could affect many compliant products.

Existing routers will continue to receive software and firmware updates until at least January 1, 2029, a deadline that has been extended. However, the security of devices without updates remains a concern. Router manufacturers are actively seeking exemptions to continue selling new models and providing updates for existing ones.