Update: Mandatory Security Certification for IP Router & Wi-Fi CPE

The National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS), part of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, has issued a notification regarding modifications to the mandatory testing dates for Security Certification of IP Routers and Wi-Fi CPE under the Communication Security Certification (ComSeC) scheme of MTCTE.

Details:

Category: Products Not Yet TEC Certified:

• Description: Models of IP Router & Wi-Fi CPE not certified for technical parameters of TEC under MTCTE, intended for sale by OEMs or Importers in India.
• Certification Date: The mandatory security certification for these products will commence from 01/07/2024.
• Action: Until this date, these products must undergo security testing and certification under Voluntary Security Certification (VSC).

Category: Previously TEC Certified Products:

• Description: Models of IP Router & Wi-Fi CPE previously certified by TEC for technical parameters under MTCTE, already deployed in the licensee’s (TSP) network, and proposed for hardware or software changes.
• Certification Date: The mandatory security certification for these products will commence from 01/10/2024.
• Action: Until this date, these products must undergo security testing and certification under Voluntary Security Certification (VSC).

Conclusion: In compliance with the updated regulations, IP Router & Wi-Fi CPE products are subject to mandatory security certification under the ComSeC scheme of MTCTE. For products not yet TEC certified, certification begins on 01/07/2024, while previously certified products with proposed changes start certification on 01/10/2024. During the Voluntary Security Certification (VSC) period, no administration or Security Test Evaluation Fees will be charged.

Security Certification of IP Router and Wi-Fi CPE products

The notification invites applications for security certification of IP Router and Wi-Fi CPE products, as specified in reference (1), until 31st October 2024. Applications must include a self-declaration of conformance to applicable ITSAR and an undertaking to withdraw non-compliant products from the network. No fee will be charged during this period. Applicants will receive a “Pro Tem Certificate” valid for 6 months to ensure continuous supply until certification is completed. There will be no extensions beyond the deadline. OEMs, importers, and dealers are encouraged to apply to avoid business disruptions. This is issued with the approval of the competent authority.