The U.S. router ban: Everything you need to know

Federal Communications Commission The FCC added foreign-manufactured consumer routers to its Covered List, all consumer-grade routers produced outside the U.S. were added to the government's blacklist of communications equipment.

FCC rule New authorizations for covered routers are blocked, devices on the Covered List cannot receive new equipment authorizations required for import, marketing, or sale in the U.S.

Previously authorized routers Previously authorized router models can still be sold and used, the FCC said consumers may continue using routers they already acquired and retailers may sell previously approved models.

FCC waiver The FCC granted a temporary waiver for updates until March 1, 2027, previously authorized routers can continue receiving software and firmware updates through that date, after which the agency will reassess.

FCC justification The FCC cited supply-chain vulnerabilities and past cyberattacks as reasons for the ban, the agency stated foreign-produced routers introduce supply-chain risks and have been exploited in attacks such as Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon.