Why NJ Businesses Should Replace Their TP-Link Routers Now

If your New Jersey business is running TP-Link routers, you need to read this. Over the past year, TP-Link has become the subject of a formal US government investigation, multiple cybersecurity ad

visories, and a proposed federal ban — all tied to serious national security and network vulnerability concerns. For businesses that rely on their network to run operations, this is not a risk worth keeping.

What Is the TP-Link Security Problem?

TP-Link is the largest router manufacturer in the world, holding over 65% of the US home and small business router market. But in 2024, investigations by the US Departments of Defense, Justice, and Commerce revealed that TP-Link routers had been actively exploited by Chinese state-sponsored hackers in cyberattacks targeting US government agencies, defense contractors, and businesses.

Specifically, a hacking group known as Volt Typhoon used compromised TP-Link routers to build a botnet — a network of hijacked devices used to launch attacks on critical US infrastructure. The routers were exploited due to unpatched firmware vulnerabilities and security design choices that made them easy targets.

The US government began formal proceedings to ban the sale of TP-Link routers in the United States. Whether or not a full ban is enacted, one thing is clear: TP-Link routers present a documented, verified security risk — and businesses have a responsibility to their clients, employees, and data to address it.

Why This Matters for Your NJ Business

Your router is the front door to your entire network. Every device in your office — computers, servers, phones, printers, cameras, and point-of-sale systems — routes traffic through it. A compromised router means an attacker can:

• Intercept and read unencrypted network traffic

• Redirect employees to fake login pages to steal credentials

• Gain persistent access to your internal network without triggering endpoint security tools

• Use your network as a launchpad to attack other businesses or government systems

• Exfiltrate sensitive data including client records, financial information, and intellectual property

For businesses in regulated industries — healthcare, legal, finance, or any company handling personal data — a network breach through a compromised router can trigger compliance violations, client notification requirements, and significant liability.

How to Tell If You Have TP-Link Equipment

TP-Link products are often deployed without IT staff realizing the brand — especially in small and growing businesses where equipment was purchased by a non-technical buyer. Check for the TP-Link logo on:

• Your office router (the box connected to your ISP line)

• Network switches (the boxes with multiple ethernet ports)

• Wireless access points (ceiling or wall-mounted WiFi units)

• Range extenders or mesh WiFi nodes

TP-Link also sells products under the Archer, Deco, and Omada brand names. If you are unsure what network equipment you have, a quick IT audit will identify every device on your network.

What Should You Replace TP-Link With?

For business environments, we recommend enterprise-grade networking equipment from vendors with strong US-based security track records. The right choice depends on your office size, number of users, and whether you need advanced features like VPN support, traffic inspection, or segmented guest networks.

Top replacements we install for NJ businesses:

• Cisco Meraki — cloud-managed networking with enterprise security, ideal for multi-location businesses

• Ubiquiti UniFi — cost-effective for SMBs with 20-100 users, excellent performance and security

• Fortinet FortiGate — advanced threat protection built into the firewall/router, great for security-conscious industries

• Netgear Orbi Pro — strong option for smaller offices needing reliable WiFi without complex management

Beyond replacing the hardware, a proper network upgrade includes reviewing your firewall rules, segmenting your network (separating guest WiFi from internal systems), and ensuring firmware is set to auto-update going forward.

VCS IT Solutions: Network Security for NJ Businesses

VCS IT Solutions serves businesses across Old Bridge, Bergen County, Middlesex County, and the tri-state area. We specialize in network security assessments, router and firewall upgrades, and ongoing managed IT support for companies with 20 to 50 users.

If you are unsure whether you have TP-Link equipment in your office, or if you want a full network security audit, we offer a free assessment for New Jersey businesses. We will identify every device on your network, flag any vulnerabilities, and give you a clear plan to address them — no obligation.

Call us at 732-723-7055 or contact us through vcsitsolutions.com to schedule your free network assessment today.