Federal authorities are considering a ban on TP-Link routers as early as 2025 amid mounting cybersecurity concerns, according to a Wall Street Journal report. The potential ban could impact millions of American households and businesses, as TP-Link currently dominates 65% of the US router market.
Three major US departments - Commerce, Defense, and Justice - have launched separate investigations into the Chinese router manufacturer. The probes focus on alleged security vulnerabilities and possible connections to state-sponsored cyberattacks.
The scrutiny intensified after Microsoft's October analysis revealed TP-Link routers were predominantly targeted in Chinese "password spraying" attacks, which the tech giant classified as "nation-state threat actor activity." The company has also faced criticism for allegedly resisting engagement with security researchers when flaws are discovered.
TP-Link's market dominance grew substantially during the pandemic, rising from 20% to nearly 65% market share. The company's competitive pricing strategy - offering routers at significantly lower costs than competitors - has drawn attention from the Justice Department, which is investigating potential violations of anti-monopoly laws.
The impact of a potential ban would extend beyond individual consumers. Over 300 US internet service providers currently supply TP-Link routers to their customers. The devices are also widely used across government agencies, including the Defense Department and Drug Enforcement Administration.
A TP-Link Systems spokesperson defended the company's products, stating, "Like many consumer electronics brands, TP-Link Systems' routers have been identified as potential targets for hackers. However, there is no evidence to suggest our products are more vulnerable than those of other brands."
The investigation follows a precedent set by previous restrictions on Chinese tech companies. In 2019, the US effectively banned network equipment from Huawei due to similar national security concerns.
The Commerce Department has already issued subpoenas to TP-Link as part of its investigation. The final decision on the ban could carry major implications for US cybersecurity policy and reshape the American router market.
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