FCC applies restriction for Foreign-Manufactured Routers

In March 2026, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) introduced an important update to its Covered List, expanding it to include consumer-grade routers manufactured in foreign countries. This decision follows a determination by U.S. authorities that such equipment may pose an unacceptable risk to national security.

What has changed?
The FCC will no longer grant standard equipment authorization for certain foreign-manufactured routers. Instead, manufacturers must obtain additional approvals from relevant U.S. authorities before these products can be placed on the market.

The measure applies primarily to routers used in homes and small office environments, which are widely deployed and often serve as critical entry points to networks.

Importantly, devices already approved or currently in use are not affected and can continue to operate and receive updates.

What does this mean for industry?
This update reflects a broader global trend of increasing regulatory attention on cybersecurity and supply chain transparency.

Manufacturers and stakeholders should:

• review their production and sourcing strategies,
• evaluate compliance requirements for the U.S. market
• strengthen cybersecurity measures throughout the product lifecycle.

FCC announcement

FCC FAQ

More information:
Marjan Mak
E-mail: marjan.mak@siq.si
Tel.: +386 1 4778 178