Overview: Exemption for Cloud Routers & Wi-Fi CPEs
The Department of Telecommunications has announced an important update regarding the NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPE devices in India. As per the latest notification dated 30 March 2026, the government has extended the security certification exemption for these products till 31 August 2026, providing relief to telecom and networking businesses.
This update is a continuation of the earlier exemption, which was set to expire on 31 March 2026. With this extension, companies dealing in cloud-based IP routers and Wi-Fi Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) can continue operating without mandatory NCCS security certification for the time being.
Key Highlights of the DoT NCCS Exemption Notification
- Issued By: Department of Telecommunications (DoT) For NCCS
- Issue Date: 30 March 2026
- Reference: Continuation of earlier notification dated 07 July 2025
- Subject: Extension of NCCS Security Certification Exemption for Cloud-Based IP Routers & Wi-Fi CPEs
- Products Covered: Cloud-based IP Routers and Wi-Fi Customer Premises Equipment (CPE)
- Exemption Type: Exemption from mandatory NCCS Security Testing / Certification
- Applicable To: OEMs, Importers, Dealers, Applicants, and TSTLs
- Validity: Exemption extended till 31 August 2026
- Purpose: To provide additional time for industry to align with evolving telecom security certification requirements in India
View Official Notification
What is the DoT NCCS Exemption for Cloud Routers & Wi-Fi CPEs?
The DoT NCCS exemption for cloud routers refers to a temporary relaxation provided by the Department of Telecommunications under the security framework managed by the National Centre for Communication Security.
Under normal regulations, telecom equipment such as routers and Wi-Fi devices must undergo mandatory security testing and certification before being sold or deployed in India. This process ensures that devices meet national security standards and do not pose risks to communication networks.
However, in the case of cloud-based IP routers and Wi-Fi CPE devices, the government has granted a temporary exemption from NCCS security certification. This means that these products are currently allowed in the Indian market without undergoing the standard security testing process.
What This Exemption Covers
- Exemption from Security Testing: Devices are not required to undergo NCCS security testing during the exemption period
- Exemption from Certification Approval: No need to obtain NCCS certification before selling or deploying these products
- Applies Only to Cloud-Based Technology: The exemption is limited to devices operating on cloud-managed architecture
- Valid for a Limited Time Period: The exemption is applicable only till 31 August 2026
- Applicable Across Supply Chain: Covers manufacturers (OEMs), importers, dealers, and applicants
- Allows Market Continuity: Businesses can continue import, sale, and deployment without regulatory interruption
Products Covered Under This Exemption
The DoT NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPEs is specifically applicable to a limited category of telecom equipment based on cloud-based architecture. It is important for businesses to clearly understand which products fall under this exemption to avoid compliance issues.
This exemption does not apply to all networking devices—it is strictly limited to cloud-implemented products where core functionalities are managed through centralized cloud systems.
Covered Products
The following products are included under this exemption:
- Cloud-Based IP Routers: Routers that rely on cloud infrastructure for configuration, control, and network management instead of fully hardware-based processing
- Wi-Fi Customer Premises Equipment (CPE): Devices installed at end-user locations (homes/offices) that are managed and monitored through cloud platforms
Products and Applications Covered Under This Exemption Include
- Supports Cloud-Based Innovation: Encourages adoption of modern technologies like cloud networking and SDN without regulatory delays
- Reduces Immediate Compliance Burden: Businesses are not required to undergo complex NCCS testing during the exemption period
- Ensures Business Continuity: OEMs, importers, and telecom providers can continue operations without disruption
- Gives Time for Regulatory Alignment: Allows authorities to develop updated security standards for cloud-based devices
- Boosts Telecom Infrastructure Growth: Helps accelerate deployment of advanced networking solutions across India
Timeline of DoT NCCS Exemption
Understanding the timeline of the DoT NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPEs helps businesses track regulatory changes and plan their compliance strategy effectively.
This exemption has evolved through multiple notifications, reflecting the government’s adaptive approach towards cloud-based telecom technologies in India.
Effective Date:
31 March 2026 - 1 Original deadline for the exemption period
07 July 2025 - Notification issued by the DoT granting exemption from NCCS security certification for cloud-based IP routers and Wi-Fi CPEs
31 August 2026 - Revised deadline for NCCS exemption
Get Service NowImpact on Businesses & What You Should Do
The extension of the DoT NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPEs has a direct impact on telecom businesses, importers, and manufacturers operating in India. It offers short-term relief, but also comes with the responsibility to prepare for future compliance requirements.
For companies dealing with cloud-based IP routers and Wi-Fi CPE devices, this exemption ensures that operations can continue smoothly without immediate regulatory hurdles. However, this should be seen as a preparation window, not a long-term relaxation.
Impact on Businesses
- No Immediate Certification Requirement: Businesses can import, sell, and deploy eligible products without NCCS approval
- Reduced Compliance Pressure: No need for immediate testing, documentation, or certification costs
- Faster Market Access: Products can be launched and distributed without regulatory delays
- Supports Business Continuity: Avoids disruption in supply chain and telecom deployments
Official Notification on DoT NCCS Exemption for Cloud Routers
The extension of the NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPEs has been officially announced by the Department of Telecommunications through the National Centre for Communication Security.
Conclusion
The extension of the DoT NCCS exemption for cloud routers and Wi-Fi CPEs till 31 August 2026 is a strategic move by the Department of Telecommunications to support the rapidly evolving telecom ecosystem in India. By providing temporary relief from NCCS security certification, the government is enabling businesses to adopt modern cloud-based networking technologies without immediate regulatory pressure.
This update reflects a balanced approach—encouraging innovation while allowing time to strengthen the telecom security certification framework in India. However, it is important to understand that this exemption is not permanent. It serves as a transition phase, and mandatory compliance requirements are likely to be enforced in the near future.
Read Also
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Request Service Today!
Ready to get certified or need expert compliance support? Fill out the form below and our team at SS Global Services will connect with you shortly.
We offer fast, reliable, and hassle-free assistance for all BIS and regulatory certification needs.