Industrial Communication and Networks

How to Select Industrial Communication and Networking Solutions

Designing an industrial network requires considering both current communication needs and the future development of the installation. Component selection depends on communication protocols, control architecture, required performance, environmental conditions and maintenance requirements.

Not all industrial networking solutions serve the same purpose. It is important to distinguish between devices that provide connectivity, gateways that exchange data between protocols, and equipment designed for diagnostics, remote access or OT network protection.

Key Technologies for Industrial Networks

Key Considerations for Reliable Industrial Network Design

Before selecting components, assess the overall installation and define the communication requirements of each system.

• Protocols and compatibility: identify the communication technologies and device functions required.
• Topology and availability: evaluate network structure, distances, redundancy and continuity requirements.
• Performance: consider data rates, traffic volumes, latency and application timing requirements.
• Diagnostics and maintenance: plan how communication faults will be identified and investigated.
• Communication security: define authorised access, network separation and necessary protection measures.
• Scalability: consider future expansion, additional equipment and possible architecture changes.

Applications Across Industrial Sectors

Industrial communication and networking solutions support both new installations and modernisation projects.

• Machine builders: equipment integration, controller communications and adaptation to customer networks.
• Manufacturing: production line expansion, fault diagnostics and maintenance of communication infrastructure.
• Energy, water and critical infrastructure: communication between distributed systems, monitoring and OT network access control.
• Engineering companies and system integrators: technology selection for new installations, upgrades and integration of existing systems.