In India, all Wi-Fi Access Points (APs) intended for sale, import, or deployment in networks are governed by the technical framework defined by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), part of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
One of the key reference documents in this space is the “Wi-Fi Access Point – Generic Requirements (TEC 38020:2021)”, which outlines the technical, safety, and performance criteria that every compliant Wi-Fi AP must meet.
Introduced in December 2021, this standard continues to serve as the foundation for certification under India’s Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) scheme.
What the Standard Covers
TEC 38020:2021 specifies the Generic Requirements (GR) for both indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi Access Points operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
The standard supports technologies up to IEEE 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and ensures that devices provide reliable performance, robust security, and electromagnetic compatibility when used in Indian network environments.
It also includes guidance for Wi-Fi systems deployed under the PM-WANI initiative, India’s public Wi-Fi network programme aimed at expanding affordable internet access.
Key Technical Aspects
Performance and Interoperability: Access Points must demonstrate stable operation, throughput efficiency, and compatibility with certified client devices.
EMI/EMC Requirements: Products must comply with CISPR 32 and IEC 61000 series standards to limit interference and ensure coexistence with other equipment.
Safety Requirements: Compliance with IS 13252 (Part 1) and IEC 60950-1 / IEC 62368-1 ensures electrical safety for users and installers.
Environmental Durability: Outdoor units must meet IP65 or higher ingress protection, as well as resistance to temperature, humidity, and vibration.
Security Protocols: Devices should support modern encryption and authentication mechanisms such as WPA2, WPA3, and 802.1X/EAP to safeguard network access.
Spectrum Use: Frequency operation must align with India’s National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) and WPC notifications.
Access the full official notification through the link below:
Why It Matters
The TEC 38020:2021 standard ensures that Wi-Fi Access Points deployed across India’s communication networks are safe, secure, and interoperable, supporting consistent user experiences and protecting network integrity.
It also helps manufacturers align with international best practices while meeting India’s unique spectrum and environmental requirements.
For organisations involved in manufacturing, importing, or deploying Wi-Fi systems, understanding this document is essential to achieving and maintaining TEC certification under the MTCTE scheme.
At C-PRAV, we continue to help manufacturers and network equipment providers understand and meet TEC requirements with confidence—ensuring every product meets the highest standards of performance, safety, and compliance.
