Which organization regulates the use of wireless local area network (WLAN) devices in the United States?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the organization responsible for regulating the use of wireless local area network (WLAN) devices in the United States. This agency manages the radio frequency spectrum use, ensuring that wireless communication devices operate within established standards to minimize interference with each other. The FCC also sets rules that manufacturers must follow for WLAN devices, such as adherence to specific frequency bands and power levels, enabling the reliable operation of wireless networks.

The other organizations play different roles; for example, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) focuses on consumer protection and preventing unfair business practices. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a professional association that develops technical standards, such as the 802.11 standard that defines WLAN protocols, but it does not regulate their use. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) primarily manages federal government use of the spectrum and advises on telecommunications policies but does not directly regulate commercial WLAN devices.