Wi-Fi router makers TP-Link and Netgear are engaged in a federal lawsuit in Delaware over alleged violations of the Lanham Act, with both accusing each other of false and misleading statements. TP-Link filed the suit in November 2025, and Netgear responded with counterclaims in June 2026. The dispute centers on accusations related to national security concerns and the companies’ ties to China, according to medianama.com.
TP-Link denies allegations of Chinese government affiliation, stating it is a US-based company incorporated and headquartered in California. The complaint filed by TP-Link describes Netgear’s claims as an unlawful smear campaign aimed at falsely portraying TP-Link and its products as infiltrated by the Chinese government. The issue gained prominence after the US Federal Communications Commission added foreign-made consumer routers to its Covered List in March 2026, barring new models from entering the US market, and the Department of Defense named TP-Link among Chinese military companies operating in the US on June 8.
The case highlights growing tensions in the US over technology supply chains and national security. The FCC’s Covered List and the Department of Defense’s designation reflect increasing scrutiny of Chinese companies in the American market. TP-Link’s inclusion alongside major firms like Baidu and Tencent underscores the challenges foreign tech companies face amid geopolitical concerns. The lawsuit also exemplifies how such national security designations can spur legal battles over market reputation and competitive practices.
The lawsuit continues in the District Court of Delaware, with both companies advancing their claims and counterclaims. The Department of Defense’s list naming TP-Link as a Chinese military company was released on June 8, 2026, marking a key date in the dispute’s timeline.