The US banned new foreign-made consumer routers this spring. Companies must prove they are not a security risk and plan to build routers in America. Asus got an exemption on September 9. But Asus will not say whether it actually plans to make routers in the US. The Verge waited more than 12 days for a clear answer.
🔍 The Backstory
The FCC gave Asus a blanket exemption through March 2028. It also exempted Netgear back in April. Critics say the ban is not really about security or US jobs. Both firms say they make routers in allied countries, not China. The rule asks companies how they will build in the US, but Asus would not confirm any such plan.
🎯 Why It Matters
Router rules can raise prices and limit choices for home internet users. The story shows how unclear these government decisions still are.
The US banned new foreign-made consumer routers this spring. Companies must prove they are not a security risk and plan to build routers in America. Asus got an exemption on September 9. But Asus will not say whether it actually plans to make routers in the US. The Verge waited more than 12 days for a clear answer.
The FCC gave Asus a blanket exemption through March 2028. It also exempted Netgear back in April. Critics say the ban is not really about security or US jobs. Both firms say they make routers in allied countries, not China. The rule asks companies how they will build in the US, but Asus would not confirm any such plan.
Router rules can raise prices and limit choices for home internet users. The story shows how unclear these government decisions still are.