European Network Manufacturers Form SAFENet Alliance

Four leading European network technology manufacturers – devolo, FRITZ!, LANCOM, and TDT – have established the Sovereignty Alliance for European Network Technology (SAFENet) in Berlin on June 15, 2026. The alliance's objective is to foster Europe's digital and technological independence in securing its networks and data infrastructure. SAFENet highlights the critical role of routers in data traffic, as over 90 percent of all data flows through them.

The alliance intends to initiate a dialogue with European policymakers, businesses, and society to underscore the significance of network technology for Europe's digital and technological sovereignty. According to a study by the Innovate Europe Foundation, approximately 93 percent of European internet traffic passes through routers and home network gateways. Chinese manufacturers control nearly 40 percent of this market, creating strategic dependencies. SAFENet argues that the EU has overlooked routers as a strategic blind spot, despite its focus on other areas like cloud services and semiconductors.

SAFENet outlines three core demands for European and national decision-makers: increased transparency for users regarding the origin of hardware and software updates, prioritization of trustworthy European network technology in public procurement and critical infrastructure sectors, and recognition of routers and network technology as a priority area. The alliance proposes a "Router and Network Technology Security Toolbox", similar to the EU's 5G security toolbox, featuring a harmonized risk assessment.

The alliance is open to additional European manufacturers and aims to influence regulatory frameworks to enhance Europe's digital self-determination. Its vision is for a digital Europe that is self-determined, resilient, and future-proof.