Choosing the Right Industrial Ethernet Switch for Your Automation Network Needs
- tass peters
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Industrial Ethernet switches play a vital role in automation networks, connecting devices such as PLCs, sensors, gateways, and SCADA systems. Unlike standard office switches, industrial switches are engineered to withstand harsh conditions and ensure continuous, real-time communication. Selecting the right switch can improve network reliability, simplify maintenance, and support the growth of Industrial IoT (IIoT) systems.
This post explores the key differences between managed and unmanaged industrial Ethernet switches, their features, and how to choose the best option for your automation network.
Why Industrial Ethernet Switches Matter in Automation
Automation networks require switches that can operate 24/7 in environments with temperature extremes, electrical noise, vibration, and dust. Industrial Ethernet switches are designed with rugged enclosures and components to meet these demands. They support continuous data flow between critical devices, ensuring that control commands and sensor data reach their destinations without delay or loss.
Key reasons to use industrial switches include:
Wide temperature tolerance: Operate reliably in environments from -40°C to +75°C or more.
Electrical noise immunity: Resist interference common in industrial settings.
Vibration and shock resistance: Maintain connections despite mechanical stress.
Power flexibility: Support industrial DC power supplies and redundant power inputs.
Mounting options: DIN-rail mounting for easy installation in control cabinets.
These features make industrial switches essential for sectors like manufacturing, energy, utilities, agriculture, transportation, and infrastructure.
Managed Industrial Switches for Complex Networks
Managed industrial switches offer advanced control and monitoring capabilities. They are ideal for larger automation systems or mission-critical applications where network stability and diagnostics are crucial.
Key Features of Managed Switches
VLAN support
Segment the network to isolate traffic types, improving security and performance.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Prioritize control and real-time data traffic to reduce latency and packet loss.
Redundancy protocols
Use protocols like Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) or Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP) to maintain network availability during failures.
Remote management
Access switch settings and monitor network health via web interfaces, SNMP, or command-line tools.
Traffic monitoring and diagnostics
Identify bottlenecks, faulty devices, or unusual traffic patterns quickly.
Use Cases for Managed Switches
PLC and SCADA networks
Where multiple devices communicate continuously and require high uptime.
IIoT deployments
Connecting sensors and gateways across distributed locations.
Remote monitoring systems
Allowing engineers to troubleshoot without physical access.
Multi-machine automation
Coordinating complex processes with strict timing requirements.
Managed switches provide the visibility and control needed to maintain stable communications and quickly resolve network issues.
Unmanaged Industrial Switches for Simplicity and Reliability
Unmanaged industrial switches offer straightforward plug-and-play connectivity without configuration. They suit smaller or less complex systems where ease of installation and reliable Ethernet performance are priorities.
Characteristics of Unmanaged Switches
No setup required
Connect devices and the switch works immediately.
Deterministic performance
Provide consistent Ethernet speeds and low latency.
Compact and rugged design
Fit into small control panels or field enclosures.
Cost-effective
Lower price point compared to managed switches.
Ideal Applications for Unmanaged Switches
Standalone machines
Simple automation tasks with limited network devices.
Small control panels
Where network complexity is low.
Sensor networks
Collecting data without the need for traffic prioritization.
Basic monitoring systems
Where advanced diagnostics are unnecessary.
Unmanaged switches reduce complexity and installation time, making them a practical choice for straightforward automation setups.
How to Choose the Right Industrial Ethernet Switch
Selecting the best switch depends on your network size, complexity, environment, and budget. Consider these factors:
Network Size and Complexity
For large or distributed networks with many devices, managed switches provide the control and diagnostics needed.
For small or simple networks, unmanaged switches offer reliable connectivity without configuration.
Environmental Conditions
Check the operating temperature range and ensure the switch can handle your site’s conditions.
Look for vibration and shock resistance if the switch will be installed on moving machinery or in harsh environments.
Confirm the switch supports your power supply type, such as 24V DC common in industrial settings.
Required Features
If you need network segmentation, traffic prioritization, or redundancy, choose managed switches.
If your network just needs basic Ethernet connectivity, unmanaged switches are sufficient.
Installation and Maintenance
Managed switches require network expertise for setup and ongoing management.
Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play, ideal for quick deployment or less technical staff.
Budget Constraints
Managed switches cost more but can reduce downtime and troubleshooting time.
Unmanaged switches are more affordable upfront but offer fewer features.
Practical Example: Automation Network in a Manufacturing Plant
A manufacturing plant with multiple production lines uses PLCs, sensors, and SCADA systems to monitor and control processes. The network must run continuously with minimal downtime.
The plant installs managed industrial switches in control cabinets to segment traffic between production lines.
VLANs separate sensor data from control commands, reducing interference.
QoS ensures time-sensitive control messages have priority.
Redundancy protocols keep the network running even if a switch fails.
Remote management allows engineers to monitor network health from the office.
In contrast, a small packaging machine on the plant floor uses an unmanaged switch to connect a few sensors and a controller. The simple setup requires no configuration and works reliably without extra features.
Summary
Industrial Ethernet switches are essential for reliable automation networks. Managed switches offer advanced control and diagnostics for complex systems, while unmanaged switches provide simple, dependable connectivity for smaller setups. Understanding your network’s size, environment, and feature needs will guide you to the right choice.
Choosing the right switch improves network uptime, simplifies maintenance, and supports the growth of IIoT and automation technologies. Evaluate your requirements carefully and select a switch that matches your operational demands and budget.
