Telecom & Network Equipment
Network equipment forms the critical infrastructure of the digital society. Routers, gateways, and edge devices are privileged network components with far-reaching access rights. The Cyber Resilience Act classifies many of these products in higher risk classes and demands particularly stringent security measures.
CRA Relevance for Telecom & Network Equipment
Network equipment belongs to the critical product categories explicitly named in the CRA. The central role in data traffic and the high privileges of these devices lead to stricter requirements.
- Routers, firewalls, and network gateways are listed as Class II critical products in the CRA annex and require third-party conformity assessment
- Edge computing devices process and route sensitive data and must meet the highest security standards
- 5G network equipment is additionally subject to the EU Toolbox recommendations for 5G security
- The overlap between CRA and NIS2 requires a holistic compliance strategy for manufacturers and operators
- Network devices require particularly robust secure update mechanisms as they are prime attack targets
Compliance Challenges in Network Equipment
Highest CRA Risk Class
Many network products fall into CRA Class II, the strictest category. This requires conformity assessment by notified bodies and extensive technical documentation.
Zero-Day Vulnerabilities and Rapid Patches
Network devices are prime targets for attackers. The ability to identify security vulnerabilities within hours and deploy patches is business-critical and CRA-relevant.
Complex Software Supply Chain
Network devices are built on complex software stacks with Linux kernels, open-source components, and proprietary software. Creating complete SBOMs is particularly demanding.
Multi-Regulatory Compliance
Beyond the CRA, NIS2, national telecommunications laws, 5G security requirements, and industry-specific standards apply. Coordinating all requirements demands a structured approach.
How Kunnus Supports Network Equipment Manufacturers
Class II Conformity Preparation
Kunnus systematically prepares you for conformity assessment by notified bodies. The platform generates the required technical documentation and risk assessment in the mandated format.
Real-time Vulnerability Management
Kunnus monitors vulnerability databases in real time and immediately correlates new CVEs with your products. Critical vulnerabilities in network components are reported with the highest priority.
Deep Stack SBOM Analysis
Kunnus analyzes complex network software stacks down to the kernel module level. The platform identifies all open-source components, licenses, and known vulnerabilities across layers.
Regulatory Dashboard
Maintain an overview of CRA, NIS2, and industry-specific requirements in a single dashboard. Kunnus displays the compliance status of each product across all relevant regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CRA compliance in this industry.
Check Your Network Equipment's CRA Readiness
Determine how well your network products are prepared for the stricter CRA Class II requirements and what steps to take now.