After gaining an in-depth understanding of the JC-STAR framework, the primary question most manufacturers face is: Should we start with STAR-1 or STAR-2? As the first step to entering the Japanese market, choosing the correct basic level not only saves costs and accelerates progress but also lays a solid foundation for future development. This article focuses on STAR-1 and STAR-2, providing you with a clear logic for level selection and implementation path.

I. Core Interpretation: Positioning & Value of Basic Levels

Led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and administered by the Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA), JC-STAR establishes a security trust mark for IoT products. For most manufacturers, starting with the basic levels is the most pragmatic choice:

Core Value: Both STAR-1 and STAR-2 are certified through self-declaration of conformity, making them the most cost-effective and time-efficient market access solutions.

II. Precision Positioning: Dimensions for Basic Level Selection

To select the most suitable entry level for your product, consider the following dimensions:

(1) Target Market & Customer Needs

• STAR-1 Applicable: Targeting general consumers, meeting basic security requirements
• STAR-2 Applicable: Targeting enterprise customers or commercial scenarios with specific security demands

(2) Product Risk Level

• Low-Risk Products: Smart home sensors, ordinary small appliances, etc. → Recommend STAR-1
• Medium-Risk Products: Network cameras, smart door locks, routers, etc. → Recommend STAR-2

(3) Expected Resource Investment

• STAR-1: Short preparation cycle, relatively low internal resource investment
• STAR-2: Requires more comprehensive technical documentation and security measures

III. Practical Guide: Recommended Levels for Typical Products

Note on Higher-Level Certification:

STAR-3 and STAR-4 target high-end markets such as government and critical infrastructure, requiring rigorous evaluation by IPA-approved third-party laboratories.

IV. Manufacturer Concerns: Common Questions About Basic Levels

Q1: What is the main difference between STAR-1 and STAR-2?

STAR-1 is the minimum security baseline that all IoT products must meet, while STAR-2 adds product-specific security requirements on top of STAR-1. We can help you accurately identify these differences to avoid over-preparation or insufficient preparation.

Q2: Does self-declaration mean "easy to pass"?

No. Self-declaration requires a complete evidence chain of conformity, and IPA will conduct strict format reviews. We offer preliminary review services to significantly improve the first-time pass rate.

Q3: Will choosing a basic level affect market competitiveness?

No. STAR-1/STAR-2 already meet the procurement requirements of most Japanese commercial markets and consumers, making them the most cost-effective choice.

V. Our Service Commitments: Focus on Basic Levels, Professional Guarantee

(1) Precision Level Planning

• Product positioning and market demand analysis
• Accurate matching of STAR-1/STAR-2
• Certification path planning

(2) Professional Gap Analysis

• Comparison between current status and standard requirements
• Specific improvement suggestions
• Resource investment evaluation

(3) Complete Documentation Preparation

• Compilation of conformity declaration documents
• Sorting and integration of evidence chains
• Format standard review

(4) Preliminary Review & Optimization

• Simulated IPA review
• Issue identification and correction
• Pass rate guarantee

Start Right, Achieve More with Less: STAR-1 builds a solid security foundation, while STAR-2 enhances commercial value. First, enter the market through basic certification, then plan the advanced path according to development needs—this is the most stable and economical product internationalization strategy.