Federal authorities are investigating TP-Link, a major router manufacturer, over potential national security risks that could lead to a ban on their products in 2025. The investigation involves the Departments of Justice, Commerce, and Defense, with the Commerce Department already issuing subpoenas to the company.

TP-Link currently dominates approximately 65% of the U.S. SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) router market, with their devices being distributed by over 300 U.S. internet service providers. The company’s pricing strategy, selling devices below manufacturing costs, has raised concerns and is under DOJ scrutiny.

Security concerns intensified after Microsoft’s October report revealed that Chinese threat actors were operating a botnet named Quad7 (also known as CovertNetwork-1658 or xlogin), primarily comprising compromised TP-Link routers. The devices have been found on sensitive government networks, including the Defense Department, NASA, and DEA.

This investigation follows broader U.S. actions against Chinese technology companies. The FCC has already banned equipment from several Chinese manufacturers, including Huawei and ZTE, citing national security risks. Additionally, the Biden administration is moving to terminate China Telecom’s remaining U.S. operations following discoveries of Chinese state-sponsored cyber intrusions into U.S. telecom carriers.

TP-Link’s U.S. subsidiary has responded by expressing willingness to cooperate with government investigations and demonstrate their compliance with industry security standards.