FCC exempts Netgear from ban on foreign routers, doesn't explain why
Summary
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given Netgear an exemption from a U.S. ban on selling foreign-made consumer routers. This exemption allows Netgear’s routers to be sold in the U.S. until October 2027, but the FCC has not explained why Netgear was granted this special permission.Key Facts
- The FCC banned consumer routers made partly or fully outside the U.S. due to national security concerns.
- Netgear is the first major consumer router company to receive an exemption from this ban.
- The exemption covers Netgear’s Nighthawk and Orbi routers, plus cable gateways and modems.
- Exemptions require companies to justify foreign manufacturing and provide a plan to increase U.S. production, but details from Netgear were not shared.
- The exemption lasts until October 1, 2027, and can be renewed.
- Adtran, a company mainly serving businesses, also received a similar exemption.
- The FCC may block future software updates for routers after March 2027.
- Most consumer routers are made with parts and assembly outside the U.S., so nearly all companies will need to seek exemptions for new devices.
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