Following the FCC's March 23 announcement banning sales of new Wi-Fi routers with major foreign manufacturing due to security risks, companies like TP-Link and Netgear have responded with production shift plans, while experts cite threats like Salt Typhoon and warn of update cutoffs after March 1, 2027. No exemptions granted yet; Starlink routers appear unaffected.
The FCC's move highlights vulnerabilities exposed by cyberattacks such as Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon—the latter used Cisco routers to breach networks of AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen. FCC Chair Brendan Carr emphasized, “Following President Trump’s leadership, the FCC will continue to do our part in making sure that US cyberspace, critical infrastructure and supply chains are safe and secure.”
The ban affects routers with any major production stage abroad, impacting ~60% made in China and brands including TP-Link, Asus, and Netgear. TP-Link, scrutinized for China ties since late 2025, stated its US products have been Vietnam-made since 2018 and announced US manufacturing plans. US-headquartered Netgear welcomed the focus on a 'safer digital future' despite its overseas assembly.
No firms have secured exemptions via the FCC's Conditional Approval list. Cybersecurity experts advise against panic buying, as approved models remain supported with firmware updates through at least March 1, 2027. Forescout's Rik Ferguson cautioned, “The risk is very real if that update pipeline has been switched off.” Electronic Frontier Foundation's William Budington criticized the ban as a “blunt instrument” given cyber defense funding cuts.
Texas-made Starlink routers seem exempt, positioning them as a secure alternative.
