My Expert Advice: Don’t Buy a Router Until We Know More About the FCC's Ban
CNET • • business
Key Points:
- The FCC has banned the sale of new foreign-made Wi-Fi routers in the US, affecting nearly all routers currently available due to their international manufacturing and design, citing national security risks.
- The ban applies only to new models not yet authorized by the FCC, allowing existing routers to remain available and receive security updates until at least March 1, 2027, after which updates may cease.
- Experts advise consumers to delay purchasing new routers if possible, as future security updates for many foreign-made routers may be discontinued, potentially leaving devices vulnerable.
- The ban impacts both consumers who own routers and the 70% of Americans who rent equipment from ISPs, though mass replacement by ISPs is unlikely due to cost concerns.
- More detailed information on which manufacturers will be banned or exempt is expected within the next month or two, and until then, consumers are urged to exercise caution before buying new routers.
.png?format=webp&w=120&h=80)
