The National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has issued a new and updated Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirement (ITSAR) for Wi-Fi Customer Premises Equipment (CPE).
This updated standard—ITSAR402122512, Version 2.0.0, released on 01 December 2025—introduces enhanced security requirements that manufacturers, importers, and service providers must comply with under MTCTE (Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecom Equipment).
What This Notification Means
The new ITSAR replaces older versions and brings significant updates aligned with the latest international standards, 3GPP specifications, and evolving Wi-Fi technologies such as:
- Wi-Fi 6 & Wi-Fi 7
- Cloud-managed access points
- Virtualized network functions
- Modern authentication mechanisms (WPA3, OWE, etc.)
This ITSAR now forms the mandatory baseline security standard for all Wi-Fi CPEs undergoing MTCTE certification in India.
Scope of the New ITSAR
This requirement applies to all categories of Wi-Fi CPE, including:
- Wi-Fi Routers
- Wi-Fi Modems
- Broadband/Cable Modems with Wi-Fi
- Access Points (with/without controllers)
- Mesh Wi-Fi systems
- Controllers (hardware or cloud-based)
- Cloud-managed Wi-Fi solutions
Unless specifically exempted, the security clauses apply to all device types.
Key Highlights of ITSAR402122512
Updated ITSAR Security Requirements for Wi-Fi CPE
1. Stronger Access & Authentication Controls
- Mandatory mutual authentication for management interfaces
- Role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication for user and machine accounts
- Forced password change at first login and after factory reset
- Strong anti-brute-force protection
2. Enhanced Software & Firmware Security
- Secure update and upgrade mechanisms
- Mandatory source code security assurance
- No orphaned or unused software components
- Malware-free declaration from OEMs
- Protection against known vulnerabilities in SoC components
3. Robust Data Protection Requirements
- Secure cryptographic communication (IPsec, TLS, SSH, etc.)
- Encryption of data at rest and in transit
- Protection against overt and covert data exfiltration
- Cryptographic key protection and secure storage
4. Logging, Monitoring & Audits
Devices must maintain logs of:
- Login attempts
- Configuration changes
- System events
- Security incidents
- Network interface status
Logs must be stored in non-volatile memory for audit readiness.
5. Network Security Requirements
- Traffic filtering at network and transport layers
- Logical separation of management and control plane traffic
- Anti-spoofing and Reverse Path Forwarding (RPF) enforcement
- DDoS protection mechanisms
- Blocking of unnecessary ICMP messages
6. Web Interface Security (If Applicable)
- Mandatory HTTPS
- Input validation to prevent XSS and injection attacks
- No default or unused HTTP methods
- Restricted execution of system commands via CGI
7. Specific Wi-Fi Security Requirements
Applicable to Wi-Fi interfaces, including:
- Disabling unused SSIDs or interfaces
- Use of WPA3-level cryptography
- Prevention of unauthorized wireless access
- Secure tunneling for controller-based access points
Why This Update Matters
With Wi-Fi devices forming the backbone of India’s digital infrastructure, the updated ITSAR framework ensures:
- Higher network security
- Transparency and accountability
- Protection against evolving cyber threats
- Alignment with global security benchmarks
Manufacturers and importers must ensure their Wi-Fi CPE products meet these requirements before applying for MTCTE certification.
How Aleph INDIA Can Help
Aleph INDIA supports manufacturers and telecom equipment providers with:
- MTCTE certification support
- Documentation and technical file preparation
- End-to-end regulatory approvals
Our team helps you achieve compliance in the shortest possible timelines.
