FRITZ!, devolo, LANCOM, and TDT Launch SAFENet, an Alliance to Strengthen European Digital Sovereignty

SAFENet, the Sovereignty Alliance for European Network Technology, has been established by FRITZ!, devolo, LANCOM, and TDT to promote the digital and technological sovereignty of the EU. The fundamental idea is to broaden the debate on Europe's dependence on technologies from other countries, also including routers among the key elements to ensure sovereignty.

SAFENet: Routers are also essential for technological independence
One of the issues facing the EU is its reliance on third parties in many areas: energy, raw materials, and also technology providers, whether hardware or software. The debate on digital sovereignty is very heated, and currently, the EU is working to become increasingly autonomous, reducing potential threats or lock-in situations. Until now, however, the focus has predominantly been on software and services, or on infrastructure devices (an example is the proposal to ban the adoption of Huawei equipment on the core 5G network in all member states).

SAFENet aims to extend the discussion and bring to the forefront the role of routers, which in fact represent the gateway to the Internet for 90% of the European user base. The idea is to ensure the independence of all network components by developing a new regulatory framework and providing European companies with a common platform to promote the development of sovereign, secure, and innovative technological solutions.

Specifically, the alliance aims to strengthen European digital sovereignty by acting on three fronts: enhanced transparency of the technology supply chain, more selective procurement policies, and the creation of a European 'Router and Network Technology Security Toolbox', designed to raise security and resilience standards for network infrastructures.

"An independent and secure network technology is the foundation of European digital sovereignty," explains Jan Oetjen, CEO of FRITZ!. "SAFENet is a strong alliance that, thanks to the expertise and market presence of its members, represents an authoritative voice in the European landscape. Only through collaboration will it be possible to ensure that Europe maintains control of its network infrastructures and can autonomously define its digital future."