U.S. Explores Ban on TP-Link Routers Amid Security Concerns

The U.S. government is considering a ban on routers manufactured by the Chinese company TP-Link, a market leader in home and small-business internet equipment, The Wall Street Journal is reporting.

The move comes amid heightened concerns over cybersecurity threats linked to Chinese technology firms. Investigations spearheaded by the Commerce, Defense, and Justice departments aim to determine whether TP-Link poses risks to national security.

Headquartered in China, TP-Link commands approximately 65% of the U.S. market for routers and is a top-seller on Amazon. Its devices also connect networks for federal agencies such as the Defense Department and NASA, raising alarm among U.S. officials. Recent reports link TP-Link routers to a vast network of compromised devices allegedly controlled by Chinese hacking groups.

An October analysis by Microsoft revealed that this network was used in cyberattacks targeting Western organizations, including think tanks, NGOs, and defense contractors. Although not directly tied to breaches by the group Salt Typhoon—suspected of hacking several U.S. telecom firms—TP-Link has become a focus of U.S. cybersecurity scrutiny.

Concerns about TP-Link’s routers extend beyond suspected cyber infiltration. Critics claim the company routinely ships devices with unpatched security flaws. Unlike some competitors, TP-Link is accused of not collaborating with security researchers to address vulnerabilities.

In response, TP-Link stated it regularly assesses and mitigates security risks. A spokesperson expressed the company’s commitment to complying with U.S. security standards and engaging with the government to address any national security concerns.

A U.S. ban on TP-Link routers could have major economic and political repercussions. On one hand, it would reduce reliance on Chinese-made technology. On the other hand, many consumers and businesses would face higher costs when purchasing alternatives.

The potential action has also drawn criticism from Beijing. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington accused the U.S. of using national security as a pretext to undermine Chinese companies, vowing to defend their interests.