Optimizing Industrial Networks with Wago’s Lean Managed Ethernet Switches

Problem In industrial environments, network reliability and security are paramount. Traditional unmanaged switches, while simple to deploy, lack the features necessary to handle the complexities of modern automation systems. Issues such as vibration, harsh conditions, and the need for network redundancy often lead to critical errors. Additionally, the rise in Ethernet-connected devices has led to cluttered networks, making traffic management and security more challenging.

Solution Wago has developed a new line of lean managed Ethernet switches specifically designed for automation engineers. These switches are adapted from full-featured managed switches but stripped of unnecessary IT functions, focusing instead on tools that enhance network performance, security, and availability.

### Key Features: - **Network Segmentation**: Managed switches allow the creation of virtual local area networks (VLANs) to segment network traffic. This boosts performance without the need for additional cabling or hardware changes. - **Enhanced Security**: The switches include built-in firewalls and the ability to disable unused ports, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and network breaches. - **Network Redundancy**: In environments where vibration or harsh conditions threaten network integrity, managed switches support ring topologies to prevent critical errors through redundancy. - **Power over Ethernet (PoE)**: Many of these switches support PoE, simplifying installation by eliminating the need for separate power and signal cables for connected devices.

Results The deployment of Wago’s lean managed switches has led to significant improvements in network performance and security across various industrial applications.

### Specific Outcomes: - **Network Performance**: By implementing VLANs, users have reported a 30% increase in network efficiency, reducing latency and improving data throughput. - **Security Enhancements**: The ability to disable unused ports and the inclusion of firewalls have resulted in a 25% reduction in security incidents on the factory floor. - **Network Availability**: The use of ring topologies has increased network uptime by 40% in environments prone to vibration and harsh conditions. - **Ease of Installation**: The support for PoE has simplified installation processes, reducing setup time by up to 20%.

"These switches are engineered to meet the specific needs of automation engineers," said Charlie Norz, Product Manager for Wago’s automation products in North America. "They provide the essential tools for enhancing network performance, security, and availability without the bloat of unnecessary IT features."

### Physical and Network Placement: Managed switches, including Wago’s lean models, are typically housed in electrical cabinet enclosures alongside HMIs, PLCs, motor drives, and sensor electronics. On the network, they can be found connecting multiple devices, from machines and their HMIs to PLCs and VFDs, facilitating machine-to-machine coordination and even the coordination of multiple production lines.

### Integration with Enterprise Systems: While most switches are used on the factory floor, there is a growing trend to connect these switches to enterprise systems. Today’s Ethernet switches can link everything from cloud services to SCADA systems and edge devices capable of preprocessing data.

### Component Compatibility: The copper RJ45 ports on Wago’s lean managed switches accommodate a wide range of devices, making them versatile for various industrial applications.