BTRC reinstates ban on single-band router import, production

FE REPORT
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has revoked its earlier decision to suspend the ban on importing, producing, and marketing single-band Wi-Fi routers, effectively reinstating the restriction.
A single-band router is a Wi-Fi router that operates only on one frequency band, usually the 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) band.
In a circular issued by its Spectrum Division, the regulator cancelled the three-month suspension announced in May, which had postponed the enforcement of the ban until August 4.
The original directive, issued in November 2024, stipulates that all ISM band Wi-Fi routers sold in Bangladesh support both the 2.4-2.483 GHz and 5.725-5.850 GHz frequency bands.
The latest circular, signed by Spectrum Division Director Dr Md Sohel Rana, clarifies that while the ban on single-band routers will now proceed, all routers must also include mandatory support for IPv6 technology.
The November decision aimed to improve broadband service quality by phasing out outdated 2.4 GHz-only devices in favour of dual-band models capable of delivering faster and more stable internet connections.
Telecom experts welcomed the move as essential for enhancing last-mile connectivity amid rising demand from smart devices and bandwidth-heavy applications.
The suspension announced in May was intended to provide industry stakeholders with a transition period due to concerns over increased device costs.
However, with the withdrawal of that suspension, the ban will take effect immediately, now including the updated IPv6 requirement.
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