FCC says ban on foreign-made routers includes portable Wi-Fi hotspots

"The FCC added a new section to a FAQ titled, 'Is my device a consumer-grade router under the National Security Determination?' The new FAQ section says this category includes 'consumer-grade portable or mobile MiFi Wi-Fi or hotspot devices for residential use.'"

"Companies making consumer hotspots need an exemption from the government to import and sell any future hotspots that haven't previously been approved by the FCC."

"The FCC defines routers broadly, giving the agency plenty of flexibility to include various types of consumer networking devices in the ban."

"The new FAQ section says the router ban applies to 'consumer or small and medium-sized business routers sold or rented through retail and self-installable by end users.'"

The FCC clarified that its ban on foreign-made consumer routers extends to portable hotspot devices, requiring companies to obtain exemptions for new imports. Previously approved devices can still be sold. The FCC defines routers broadly, encompassing various consumer networking devices intended for residential use. The updated FAQ specifies that the ban includes consumer-grade portable hotspots, residential routers, LTE/5G customer premises equipment, and residential gateways, while mobile phones with hotspot features remain exempt.

Read at Ars Technica