Do you want your IoT products to enter the Japanese market? Faced with JC-STAR, this brand-new security regulation, many enterprises are asking: Where should we start? The answer lies in the four well-designed security levels (STAR-1 to STAR-4) of JC-STAR. Choosing the right level will not only make your certification journey more efficient with half the effort but also be the key to successfully exploring the Japanese market with precision!

I. Quick Overview: Four Security Levels & Two Certification Paths

JC-STAR adopts a stepped security system, providing a clear upward path for products with different positioning. More importantly, it divides two distinct certification paths:

Self-Declaration of Conformity: Applicable to STAR-1 and STAR-2

• Enterprises conduct conformity assessment independently
• Enterprises bear full responsibility for the authenticity of the assessment results

Third-Party Assessment & Certification: Applicable to STAR-3 and STAR-4

• Must select an assessment body approved by IPA (Information-technology Promotion Agency)
• Certification issued by IPA after passing independent third-party assessment
• Higher objectivity and credibility, highly recognized by high-end purchasers

II. STAR-1 (Basic Level): The "Golden Key" to Entering the Japanese Market

Strategic Positioning: The minimum security threshold that all IoT products must meet—a mandatory requirement for entering the Japanese market.

Four Core Requirements:

1. Intelligent Password Protection: Completely eliminate universal default passwords
2. Vulnerability Response Mechanism: Establish standardized vulnerability disclosure and handling processes
3. Continuous Update Guarantee: Ensure products can receive security updates throughout their lifecycle
4. Secure Data Transmission: Protect the security of user credentials and sensitive data

Target Customer Groups:

• All consumer IoT products planning to enter the Japanese market
• Industrial products seeking rapid market access

Key Note: According to official JC-STAR documents, enterprises must pay special attention to the completeness and standardization of evidence materials during STAR-1 self-assessment. Ensure each claim is supported by corresponding documents or test results.

III. STAR-2/3/4 (Advanced Levels): "Pass" to the High-End Market

Starting from STAR-2, requirements are tailored to specific product types:

STAR-2: Commercial-Grade Security Enhancement

• Additional product-specific requirements based on STAR-1
• Certification still achievable through self-declaration
• Suitable for commercial customers with higher security expectations

STAR-3 & STAR-4: Top-Tier Security Assurance (Mandatory Third-Party Certification)

• Target Sectors: Japanese government agencies, power energy, financial communications, and other critical infrastructure fields
• Core Value: This is not just a technical certification, but a "qualification certificate" for participating in procurement in Japan’s high-end market
• Certification Path: Must be executed by an IPA-approved third-party assessment body
• Key Difference: Unlike basic levels, STAR-3/STAR-4 require strict evaluation by authoritative third parties. If your target market is Japanese government or critical infrastructure, preparation must begin at the initial product planning stage.

IV. Three-Step Precision Positioning: Find Your Ideal Certification Level

Step 1: Clarify Your Target Market

• Focus on government/critical infrastructure → Prepare for STAR-3/STAR-4 certification
• Target consumer or commercial markets → Start with STAR-1 or STAR-2

Step 2: Evaluate Product Security Capabilities

• Does your product have advanced encryption, secure boot, or similar capabilities?
• A comprehensive technical evaluation helps accurately identify gaps with your target level

Step 3: Balance Investment and Return

• STAR-3/STAR-4 require higher investment but deliver market access and brand premium
• STAR-1/STAR-2 offer controllable costs and an effective way to quickly build market trust

V. Quick Decision Guide: Locate Your Certification Starting Point

Choosing the right JC-STAR level for your product is like setting the correct course for a voyage. It determines the resources you invest and the ultimate market height you can reach. A wise decision begins with a clear understanding of your products and target market.