TP-Link routers may be banned in the US next year – what that means for you

December 20, 2024 TH Author

A WLAN router stands on the floor of an apartment. — Fabian Sommer/picture alliance via Getty Images

The US is preparing to ban the world’s most popular router over national security fears.

According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, Chinese-owned TP-Link is currently under investigation by the US Justice, Commerce, and Defense departments because of its link to several high-profile hacking incidents. The move comes as the US government is also considering a ban of Chinese-owned social media app TikTok over data security concerns.

Also: The TikTok ban is worse than you think and will cost Americans billions – here’s why

The brand makes up more than half the American market for routers, the WSJ said, largely due to its low prices. It’s the most popular option on Amazon, it distributes its routers to more than 300 ISPs, and two of the top five spots on ZDNET’s best Wi-Fi router list are TP-Link. In addition, the company’s devices power many government systems. In short, this company’s devices are very popular.

What’s wrong with TP-Link? While many companies ship routers with bugs, sources told the WSJ, TP-Link doesn’t take necessary steps to address security flaws. A TP-Link spokesperson told the WSJ it does address security concerns, but one Chinese hacking entity has used its network – mostly TP-Link devices – to launch several cyberattacks, including ones against Defense Department suppliers.

What happens if the government bans TP-Link routers?

The most likely ban would be one limiting the purchase of new devices. This means that if you’re in the market for one, you’d be looking at higher-priced options from other manufacturers. Since the company makes up such a large portion of the market, it’s also possible there would be shortages and even higher prices for a while. It’s also possible the ban is limited to government purchases, meaning it wouldn’t affect the average consumer at all.

Less likely is a ban on existing devices. A ban like this almost certainly won’t happen overnight; ISPs would have time to comply and send you a new device. If you have your own, you’d be on the hook for purchasing a new one.

While the current US administration is investigating, any action would likely fall to the next administration set to take office in January.