TP-Link, a leading manufacturer of wireless routers, has taken legal action against Netgear, alleging a coordinated smear campaign designed to undermine its business. The lawsuit, filed in Delaware federal court, claims that Netgear planted false claims with journalists and influencers about TP-Link’s technology being infiltrated by Beijing. This campaign, according to TP-Link, could lead to over $1 billion in lost sales and violates a 2024 patent settlement agreement, which required Netgear not to disparage its competitor. The suit highlights the growing tension between the two companies, as TP-Link faces increasing scrutiny over national-security concerns in Washington. US lawmakers from both parties have expressed worries about the potential security risks of TP-Link’s products, following a series of attacks on its routers. The legal battle adds to the broader discourse on cybersecurity and the role of foreign influence in corporate strategies. The case also underscores the competitive landscape of the networking industry, where reputational damage can have significant financial repercussions.