FCC rebuffs TP-Link again as it attempts to sell Wi-Fi 8 gear in the US
TP-Link just can’t seem to catch a break with the FCC, as it’s not under fire for exceeding power limits on its routers
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has once again rejected TP-Link's attempt to sell Wi-Fi 8 gear in the United States. Bloomberg reports that the FCC is rejecting the routers due to discrepancies in power levels listed in TP-Link's applications. Letters dated October 15, 2026, from the FCC Office of Engineering and Technology have accused TP-Link of providing false or inaccurate information in its router equipment authorization applications.
The FCC's concerns extend beyond power levels; three of the four affected routers also exceeded the allowed power usage levels. The FCC's testing procedures include evaluations of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radio frequency (RF) emissions, and national security compliance, all of which have been significant hurdles for TP-Link.
TP-Link has responded, stating that routine spot checks are standard practice in the consumer electronics industry and that they are committed to collaborating with the FCC to resolve any technical issues. However, the road to approval appears to be long and arduous, with the FCC, members of Congress, and state attorneys general all expressing their dissatisfaction with TP-Link's past ties to China.
Despite these challenges, TP-Link has taken steps to win over the U.S. government, such as relocating its headquarters to California and announcing a $1 billion joint venture with Key Tronic to manufacture Wi-Fi 8 routers in the country.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Hardware's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
