The document is a final rule from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), published in the Federal Register on November 25, 2025, which constitutes the “Second Report and Order” on how to protect the communications equipment supply chain from national security risks through the FCC's equipment authorization program.

Its central objective is to close loopholes and strengthen the prohibition on authorizing equipment considered “covered equipment” that is, equipment that has been determined by federal sources listed in the Secure Networks Act to pose an unacceptable risk to national security or the safety of people in the U.S., and which is therefore listed on the “Covered List” administered by the FCC.

The rule takes effect on December 26, 2025.

WHOM DOES IT IMPACT?

The direct impact affects manufacturers and brands associated with the Covered List, "unlisted" manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers, certification bodies, and end users.

CONCLUSION:

The rule raises the bar for compliance and makes the ban on high-risk equipment more restrictive, immediately affecting manufacturers and the entire commercial and certification chain, with the intended benefit of reducing national security exposure without forcing the removal of already installed equipment.