All radio-enabled network gear deployed in Ireland must comply with the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU. This directive ensures equipment meets essential requirements for:

– Health and safety
– Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
– Efficient use of radio spectrum

In Ireland, ComReg enforces these requirements through licence exemptions under S.I. 282 of 2020. Only CE-marked equipment supported by a valid Declaration of Conformity (DoC) can be deployed without an individual Wireless Telegraphy licence.

Non-compliant devices risk prosecution under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926. Penalties may include fines, seizure of equipment, and reputational scrutiny. For ISP decision-makers, this regulatory framework makes certification a board-level risk consideration rather than a technical detail.

When sourcing Customer Premises Equipment or other network hardware, Irish ISPs should prioritise vendors who provide full documentation upfront. Key certifications include CE Marking as it is mandatory for electrical and electronic equipment in the EU. CE marking confirms compliance with:

Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
EMC Directive
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)

Always request the manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity and supporting technical file.

Wi-Fi routers and radio-enabled devices should reference relevant ETSI standards, such as:

EN 300 328 (2.4 GHz Wi-Fi)
EN 301 893 (5 GHz Wi-Fi)
EN 301 489 series (EMC)

Referencing these standards in the DoC provides presumption of conformity.

Wi-Fi Alliance Certification

Certification ensures interoperability, performance validation, and security features such as WPA3. For mesh deployments and multi-AP environments, this reduces compatibility issues and support calls.

Grey-import or uncertified routers may appear cost-effective initially. However, operational risk quickly outweighs any upfront savings. Potential consequences include:

– Spectrum interference complaints
– Forced product recalls
– Failure during fibre rollout audits
– Increased support tickets due to poor channel planning
– Wholesale disputes if backhaul is affected
– Customer harm claims linked to excessive RF exposure

ComReg conducts market surveillance and can take enforcement action where required. From a commercial perspective, uncertified Customer Premises Equipment often underperforms within Irish channel plans and regulated power limits. This results in lower customer satisfaction, increased churn, and higher operational expenditure. Certification protects both network integrity and brand reputation.

To reduce risk and accelerate deployment timelines, ISPs should:

– Request full RED Declarations of Conformity
– Obtain accredited laboratory test reports (e.g., TÜV, UL)
– Confirm compliance with ComReg interface requirements (ComReg 02/71)
– Validate Wi-Fi Alliance certification for interoperability
– Check Triple E registration where energy efficiency is a factor

Certified gear streamlines TR provisioning, reduces warranty claims, and supports supply chain security obligations under NIS2-related expectations. Working with vendors who maintain a strong compliance history in Ireland reduces the likelihood of deployment delays or regulatory complications.

Certification enables confident marketing claims around future readiness, particularly as ComReg expands exemptions for newer technologies such as Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 operating in 6 GHz bands. A certified hardware baseline strengthens supply chain trust, simplifies audits, and reduces operational friction.

In fibre expansion projects and public procurement frameworks, documented compliance can also accelerate contract approvals. For Irish ISPs building scalable broadband networks, certification provides stability and clarity in an evolving regulatory environment.

At Euroroute, we work closely with Irish ISPs to supply fully certified, standards compliant Customer Premises Equipment through trusted partnerships with leading manufacturers. Our portfolio includes FRITZ!, Kontron Innbox, Icotera, and Huawei, giving operators access to proven, compliant hardware designed for reliable and scalable fibre deployments. Our services extend beyond distribution to include pre-configuration, no-touch provisioning, Cloud ACS integration, and scalable logistics designed to simplify compliant fibre deployments.

By combining certified hardware with structured operational support, ISPs can reduce regulatory risk while improving efficiency and customer experience. Contact Euroroute today to explore how our CPE partnerships and operational solutions can support your growth.