What Certifications for Router Products Exported to Japan?

As the core devices of home and enterprise networks, Wi-Fi Routers are highly technology-intensive communication products. When such products are exported to the Japanese market, they are subject not only to electrical safety regulations but also to stringent radio spectrum management and telecommunications network access laws. Manufacturers from Europe, the United States, China and other countries must thoroughly understand and obtain three key complianCE certifications to successfully enter the Japanese market: telec certification (Radio Law), JATE Certification (Telecommunications Business Law) and pse certification (Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law).

Mandatory Wireless Compliance: TELEC Certification (giteki)

Japan’s Radio Law stipulates that all devices emitting radio waves in specific frequency bands must obtain the Technical Conformity Certification, commonly known as TELEC Certification in the industry. Certified products must display the giteki mark and a unique certification number on their nameplates.

For routers, this is the most core certification, with the following key test focuses:

①　Frequency Band Compliance: Japan has special regulations for Wi-Fi frequency bands. Examples include the channel usage of the 2.4GHz band and the division of the 5GHz band (W52, W53, W56).

②　DFS Function (Dynamic Frequency Selection): If a router supports the 5.3GHz (W53) and 5.6GHz (W56) bands, it must be equipped with the DFS function to avoid signals from weather radars and military radars. This is the test item with the longest cycle and the highest failure rate in TELEC Certification.

③　Spurious Emission and Power Control: Strict restrictions are imposed on out-of-band spurious signals to prevent interference with other wireless services.

Authorization for Public Network Connection: JATE Certification

If your router device has the function of directly connecting to public telecommunications networks (e.g., 4G/5G CPE routers with SIM card slots, or devices directly connected to optical fibers/telephone lines), it must comply with the requirements of Japan’s Telecommunications Business Law and obtain JATE Certification.

Key Distinction:

Ordinary home Wi-Fi routers (connected to optical modems only via WAN ports) generally do not require JATE Certification. However, mobile router devices with built-in LTE/5G modems must obtain both TELEC and JATE Certifications.

Electrical Safety Assurance: PSE Certification

The power supply safety of routers cannot be ignored. According to Japan’s Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law, compliance requirements vary depending on the power supply method:

①　Powered by External Power Adapters: This is the most common configuration. The router host itself (powered by direct current) is generally not subject to PSE regulation, but the accompanying power adapter must compulsorily obtain the Diamond PSE Certification (factory inspection required).

②　Powered by Built-in Power Supplies: If a router is directly connected to the mains supply via an AC power cord (with a built-in switching power supply), the entire unit is classified as a Class A Specified Electrical Appliance and must apply for the Diamond PSE Certification.

Common Compliance Risk Points

In actual export cases, many enterprises have their goods detained or returned due to neglect of details:

①　Label Errors: Incorrect size ratio of the Giteki Mark, or failure to mark the certification number.

②　Firmware Restrictions: Failure to lock non-Japan-compliant frequency bands via firmware. For example, enabling unauthorized Wi-Fi channels within Japan.

③　5G Wi-Fi Labeling: According to Japanese regulations, the W52/W53 bands are generally restricted to indoor use only. A clear warning statement must be included in the product manual and on the label (e.g., "5GHz band is restricted to indoor use only").