US to ban TP-Link Wi-Fi routers in the country over...

US agencies suspect TP-Link’s Chinese roots could still allow government interference, sparking calls for a total ban on its routers.

The United States is evaluating a proposal to ban TP-Link networking equipment entirely, following a joint assessment by several federal agencies that cited potential national security threats linked to the company’s Chinese ownership. According to The Washington Post, an inter-agency review concluded that TP-Link’s US subsidiary could still be influenced by the Chinese government through its parent company, TP-Link Technologies, based in China.

The review, supported by the Departments of Commerce, Defence, and Homeland Security, found that TP-Link’s dominance in the American home router market makes it particularly concerning from a security standpoint. Estimates suggest TP-Link controls between 50 and 65 percent of this market, giving it a massive footprint across US households. Regulators fear that such widespread use could expose domestic networks to foreign interference or surveillance risks.

While the Commerce Department has not made a final decision, it must now determine whether to impose a total sales ban or pursue less drastic measures. Options include enforcing independent cybersecurity audits or mandating that TP-Link move part of its operations or production to the United States. Under federal procedures, TP-Link would receive an official notice before any action, followed by a 30-day period to respond. The department would then have another 30 days to review the company’s reply and make a ruling.

Sources cited in the report claim Commerce officials lean toward a complete ban, seeing it as the only way to fully address the security risks associated with TP-Link’s operations. However, this position has not been confirmed publicly, and no formal comments have been issued by either the government or the company.

For now, the situation remains uncertain. Any decision to restrict TP-Link could have a major impact on consumers and retailers, as the brand is widely known for affordable and mid-range routers across the country. Experts recommend users take precautionary steps in the meantime, such as regularly updating firmware, setting strong passwords, and disabling remote access features, to minimise potential vulnerabilities regardless of the brand they use.