TP-Link Routers Could Be Banned: Here Are Brand Alternatives.

In December of last year, rumors emerged about a possible ban on TP-Link routers in the United States. This situation recalls what the Huawei brand experienced in 2019, but unlike that case, a potential halt of TP-Link's operations in the U.S. market could have a significant impact, given the high usage of its devices in the country. Although TP-Link's future is uncertain, users are advised to consider alternatives and evaluate the possibility of changing their current routers.

TP-Link is a Chinese company that specializes in developing networking products and smart home devices. It is known for its routers and mesh Wi-Fi systems, which are used daily by millions of Americans. A noteworthy aspect of TP-Link is the affordability of its devices, including its latest models with Wi-Fi 7 technology.

However, the company is facing investigations by the U.S. Departments of Justice, Defense, and Commerce, which have begun to probe potential links to government-backed cyberattacks from China. These attacks have affected government organizations and other non-government-related businesses. It is unclear whether TP-Link routers have security vulnerabilities that make them more prone to attacks than other brands. Cybersecurity experts have indicated that the potential ban may be more related to the company's connections to China than to specific flaws in its products.

With 65% of router sales in the U.S. in 2024 belonging to TP-Link, a potential ban could impact a large number of users. For those looking to explore alternatives, while it is not necessary to replace a current router, it would be wise to investigate other options in case a ban does materialize.

Among the recommended brands is Asus, which offers high-quality routers, especially for gamers. Asus models are known for their performance, although they tend to be more expensive. Another option is Netgear, which has a variety of routers, with its Nighthawk RS300 and RS700S models being some of the most notable, although their prices vary considerably. The Eero brand, part of Amazon, also offers good alternatives in mesh systems at competitive prices.

If you are currently using a TP-Link router, not all hope is lost. While there is concern about its security, there are no indications of extreme danger just from using one of these devices. It is advisable to change default passwords, use secure passwords, and keep the router's firmware updated. This can help enhance network security, regardless of the brand of the router used.