In the world of cybersecurity, the devices we rely on to stay connected are under increasing scrutiny. Recent discussions around known security vulnerabilities being shipped in the software of commercially available routers, a recent example being those manufactured by TP-Link , highlight how critical firmware security is to overall network protection.
At Loxada, we understand these challenges and have developed a unique approach to ensure our customers are protected. Instead of relying on the pre-installed firmware that comes with commercially available routers, we strip them back to bare metal – removing every trace of the original software – and replace it entirely with our custom-developed, secure firmware. This ensures there are no residual vulnerabilities from the original manufacturer’s software, even after a complete factory reset.
Why Firmware Security Matters
Firmware is the operating system of a router, controlling how it connects and communicates. If compromised, it can open the door to unauthorised access, data theft, or serve as a platform for launching broader cyberattacks. Concerns about vulnerabilities in firmware aren’t hypothetical; they’ve been demonstrated in cases where commercially available routers have been shipped with exploitable flaws (source).
For organisations relying on external or home networks to enable remote work, firmware security is non-negotiable. Vulnerabilities introduced at this level can bypass other security measures, creating risks that are difficult to mitigate without replacing the device entirely.
Loxada’s Approach: Stripping Back to Bare Metal
At Loxada, we are not a hardware company – we source commercially available routers from a range of trusted manufacturers (over 200 models) and completely replace the original firmware with our custom-developed software. This process involves:
1. Complete Firmware Removal: We strip the routers back to bare metal, ensuring that no trace of the original firmware remains. Even if a user performs a factory reset, they will only ever see Loxada’s secure firmware.
2. Custom-Built Security: Our firmware is purpose-built to deliver robust security for professionals working outside traditional IT environments. It includes features like automatic updates, secure connectivity, and seamless operation, designed specifically for sensitive use cases like healthcare and legal work.
3. Flexibility and Scalability: By working with routers from multiple manufacturers, we can offer organisations a cost-effective, scalable solution without being tied to specific hardware. This flexibility allows us to focus on perfecting our custom firmware while providing a wide range of options to meet our customers’ needs.
A Proactive Approach to Router Security
The recent scrutiny surrounding TP-Link routers is a reminder that firmware vulnerabilities can exist in many commercially available devices. However, instead of criticising individual manufacturers, the key takeaway is the importance of taking proactive measures to secure critical devices.
At Loxada, we offer a solution that completely removes the risks associated with pre-installed firmware. By starting with a clean slate and applying our secure, custom firmware, we provide peace of mind for organisations that need to trust their network connections, wherever their teams are working.
Security You Can Depend On
In today’s connected world, security should never be left to chance. Loxada’s approach ensures that our routers are not just secure—they are actively maintained, updated, and built to withstand the demands of modern work environments. Whether you’re accessing sensitive patient data or confidential data, or simply requiring a secure connection for your business operations, Loxada has you covered.