FCC Bans Imports of Foreign-Made Routers Over Security Risks – Google Nest WiFi Pro Affected?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today enacted a ban on the import of new Wi-Fi routers manufactured in foreign countries, citing national security concerns. The move effectively restricts the sale of new router models produced outside of the United States, though existing devices and previously approved models remain unaffected.

According to the FCC, the decision stems from a determination that foreign-made routers present “unacceptable risks” to U.S. Infrastructure and citizens. The commission specifically highlighted the potential for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in these devices to carry out cyberattacks. “Recently, malicious state and non-state sponsored cyber attackers have increasingly leveraged the vulnerabilities in small and home office routers produced abroad to carry out direct attacks against American civilians in their homes,” the FCC stated. The agency further noted the involvement of such routers in the Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon cyberattacks, which targeted critical U.S. Sectors including communications, energy, and transportation.

The ban applies to “all consumer-grade routers produced in foreign countries,” according to the FCC, and will be enforced through the agency’s equipment authorization process. New devices on the “Covered List” – a blacklist of telecom equipment deemed a national security risk – will be prohibited from receiving FCC authorization and therefore cannot be imported for sale in the U.S.

The move follows a national security determination made by a White House-backed interagency body, as reported by Android Authority. Whereas the FCC emphasizes that consumers can continue to use routers already purchased, and retailers can continue to sell previously approved stock, the ban significantly impacts future router sales. Manufacturers seeking to sell new models in the U.S. Will need to secure “conditional approval” by demonstrating their devices do not pose security risks, or cease sales within the country.

Industry analysts suggest the ban could reshape the U.S. Router market. PCWorld reported that approximately 60% of home routers in the U.S. Are currently manufactured by Chinese companies. The FCC’s decision echoes previous restrictions placed on telecommunications equipment from companies like Huawei and ZTE, which were also added to the Covered List in 2021.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the action “means that new models of foreign-produced routers will no longer be eligible for marketing or sale in the US.” The commission’s equipment authorization process, which certifies routers, smartphones, and other devices for sale, will now be used to enforce the ban.

The current rules governing this ban are set to be reviewed on March 1, 2027, according to Engadget. Yet, the long-term implications for the U.S. Router market and the potential for increased costs or limited choices for consumers remain to be seen.