The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), through its Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB), has announced updates to its Covered List, including the introduction of a conditional approval pathway for certain routers.
The Covered List identifies communications equipment and services that are determined to pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States, in accordance with the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019.
Recent Developments
On 23 March 2026, the FCC added routers produced in a foreign country to the Covered List, based on a national security determination by an Executive Branch interagency body.
However, this classification includes an important exception. Routers that have been granted conditional approval by relevant U.S. national security authorities are excluded from this restriction.
On 14 April 2026 and further reflected in the Public Notice released on 22 April 2026, the FCC updated the Covered List to incorporate these conditional approvals and confirm the exemption of specific routers.
Conditional Approval Framework
The FCC confirms that a formal process has been established whereby entities producing routers in foreign countries may request evaluation by U.S. national security authorities.
Where a determination is made that the equipment does not pose an unacceptable risk, a conditional approval may be granted, allowing the device to be excluded from the Covered List.
The Public Notice identifies specific routers that have received such approvals, including products from manufacturers such as Netgear, Adtran, and eero (Amazon), each subject to defined approval periods.
What This Means for Industry
The inclusion of foreign-produced routers on the Covered List introduces stricter scrutiny for equipment entering the U.S. market. At the same time, the conditional approval pathway provides a defined mechanism for certain products to remain eligible, subject to evaluation and approval.
Manufacturers and suppliers should assess whether their products fall within the scope of the Covered List and determine whether engagement with the conditional approval process is required.
To read the official notification, access below.
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV supports clients with FCC compliance and regulatory navigation, including assessment of Covered List applicability, guidance on approval pathways, and support in aligning products with U.S. regulatory requirements.
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