TEC Notification for Security Certification for ONT and OLT

Introduction to the TEC Order for Security Certification (ONT & OLT)

The National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, mainly administers the Communication Security (ComSec) Scheme, which mandates security testing as well as certification of telecom equipment in order to safeguard national telecom networks.

For the purpose of facilitating a smoother transition for stakeholders, NCCS has issued a notification outlining the security certification roadmap for Optical Network Terminal (ONT) and Optical Line Terminal (OLT) products under the ComSec framework.

Key Changes You Should Know

1. ONT and OLT products will remain under the Voluntary Security Certification (VSC) regime till 31st March 2025.
2. During the VSC period:
   1. No administrative fees shall be charged
   2. No Security Test Evaluation Fees shall be levied
3. From 1st April 2025, mandatory security certification will apply.
4. Post this date, ONT and OLT products must be certified for compliance with ITSAR requirements under the ComSec Scheme.
5. Importers, dealers, OEMs, as well as telecom equipment users, may apply for Voluntary Security Certification through the official online portal.

What is the Date of Implementation?

• Voluntary Security Certification applicable till: 31st March 2025
• Mandatory ITSAR-based certification applicable from 1st April 2025

Benefits of this Notification to Businesses

1. Businesses get a cost-free certification window during the voluntary phase.
2. Early compliance readiness ahead of mandatory enforcement.
3. Reduced certification burden due to waiver of evaluation fees.
4. There is an opportunity to identify security gaps before enforcement.
5. Improved product credibility as well as market acceptance.

Now, What Should Businesses Do?

Manufacturers, importers, OEMs, as well as the telecom operators who are dealing in ONT and OLT equipment, should proactively apply under the Voluntary Security Certification regime in order to leverage the fee exemption period. Early certification will help ensure seamless compliance with ITSAR requirements before the mandatory deadline of 1st April 2025.

Brand Liaison supports telecom stakeholders with end-to-end compliance assistance, including simplified documentation, expert technical guidance, security testing coordination, regulatory interpretation, as well as in-depth industry knowledge, backed by 10+ years of experience, ensuring smooth onboarding under the ComSec framework without last-minute regulatory risks.