Fundamentals of a Robust Industrial Network

Industrial networks were developed mainly to support the automation of factory-floor processes. As a rule, these networks were closed loop systems, with no connection to the internet. Leveraging a local connectivity philosophy, industrial networks and in general the whole legacy operational technology (OT) framework would therefore often ignore the fundamental requirements for cybersecurity.

In the digital age, when every machine is expected to be connected with multiple platforms for monitoring, management, and control, such thought processes are outdated. Industry 4.0, and the resultant ecosystem, is all about making industrial operations smarter and efficient, through a reliable, secure, and future-proof network. Hence, the need for a robust industrial network.

The present paper highlights the building blocks and best practices around industrial networking as the world prepares to unleash the power of Industry 4.0.