The FCC is taking a big step that could affect the entire router market. The agency has added foreign-made routers to its “Covered List,” which means new models made outside the U.S. won’t get approval to be sold in the country. This doesn’t affect routers people already own. It also doesn’t stop stores from selling models that were already approved. But any new router made overseas won’t be able to get FCC certification, which is required to sell it in the U.S.
That’s where things get serious. Without that approval, new products simply won’t reach the market.
Why the FCC is Blocking Foreign Routers
The decision is based on national security concerns. According to the FCC, home and small office routers have become an easy target for cyberattacks. Let's be honest, Routers often don’t get updated by users, which leaves them exposed. Over time, this can turn them into entry points for attacks, data leaks, or even spying.
The FCC also pointed to recent cyber incidents, including attacks linked to groups like Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon. In those cases, routers were reportedly used as part of larger attacks on U.S. infrastructure, including energy and communication systems. Because of that, the agency now considers foreign-made routers a broader risk.
Not a Full Ban, But Close
Technically, this isn’t a full ban.
- You can still use your current router
- Retailers can still sell existing stock
- Previously approved models remain legal
But in practice, it has a similar effect. Since all new devices need FCC approval, blocking that approval for foreign-made routers means future models won’t be sold at all. There’s also a chance things could go further. The FCC already created a process that could allow it to block the sale of older, previously approved devices if needed.
The Big Problem: Almost all Routers are Made Overseas
Most routers, even the ones from U.S. brands, are manufactured outside the United States. That said, most of the routers are related to foreign tech. For instance, companies like Netgear and Linksys rely on overseas production. Others, like TP-Link, are based globally and manufacture in places like Vietnam.
That raises a big question: which companies will actually be able to keep selling routers in the U.S.? Right now, it’s not clear.
A TP-Link spokesperson said the move could impact the entire industry, since nearly all routers are made abroad. The company also said it’s confident in its supply chain and open to further review.
Key Points (TL;DR)
- FCC added foreign-made routers to its Covered List
- New routers made outside the U.S. won’t get approval to be sold
- Existing routers and approved models are not affected (for now)
- The decision is based on national security and cyberattack risks
- Routers are seen as weak points due to a lack of updates
- Most router brands rely on overseas manufacturing
- The move could impact the entire router market in the U.S.
- Future restrictions could expand to older devices
What happens next
For now, the rule only affects new devices that haven’t been approved yet. But depending on how the FCC moves forward, the impact could grow. If retailers decide to cut ties with affected brands, or if older products get restricted later, this could reshape the router market in the U.S.
At the moment, though, one thing is clear:
bringing new routers to the U.S. just got a lot harder. 2026 isn't playing games with tech lovers.
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