There are many types of industrial Ethernet switches, which can be classified from multiple perspectives. This article will introduce different types of ethernet switches from function, mounting options, ports, applications, etc.
Industrial Ethernet Switch Types by Function
Here are managed and unmanaged industrial Ethernet switches by function. Managed and unmanaged, with the key distinction being the level of control and functionality each offers.
Unmanaged switches are straightforward, plug-and-play devices. They do not require any configuration, automatically forwarding data between connected devices. Their simplicity makes them suitable for small-scale networks or situations where advanced features are not necessary. However, their lack of flexibility and monitoring capabilities can be limiting in more complex network environments.
In contrast, managed switches provide a higher level of control and monitoring. These switches allow network administrators to configure traffic prioritization, set up VLANs, and implement QoS (Quality of Service) to meet the demands of real-time data transmission, improved security, and network scalability.
Managed switches are generally favored in industrial settings due to their capacity to support complex networks and optimize performance. Nonetheless, unmanaged switches remain a cost-effective solution for simpler applications that do not require advanced features.
Industrial Ethernet Switch Types by Mounting Options
Depending on the installation environment, industrial Ethernet switches come in different mounting designs:
1. DIN-Rail Mounted Switches
- Designed for installation on DIN rails in industrial control cabinets.
- Space-saving and easy to integrate into industrial automation systems.
- Suitable for manufacturing plants and process control applications.
2. Rack-Mounted Switches
- Standard 19-inch rack-mountable form factor for large-scale networking.
- Common in data centers and industrial control rooms.
- High port density for high-performance networking.
3. Wall mount industrial Ethernet switches
Wall mount industrial Ethernet switches are a specialized type of industrial Ethernet switch designed for easy installation on a wall or other vertical surface. They combine the ruggedness and reliability of industrial-grade equipment with the convenience of wall mounting, making them ideal for space-constrained environments or situations where DIN rail mounting is not feasible.
4. Embedded industrial Ethernet switches
Embedded industrial Ethernet switches are a specialized type of industrial Ethernet switch designed to be integrated directly into other devices or systems. Unlike traditional standalone switches, embedded switches are typically smaller, more compact, and often come in a chip or module form factor. They provide Ethernet connectivity to devices that don’t natively support it, enabling them to communicate over an industrial network.
Industrial Ethernet Switch Types by Ports
Sell-Best provides different types of network switch, including 5 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 6 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 8 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 10 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 12 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 16 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 20 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, 24 port Industrial Ethernet Switch, and 28 port Industrial Ethernet Switch.
- Compact 5-8 port models are ideal for localized machine control or IoT edge deployments,
- Mid-range 10-16 port switches support modular production lines or transportation systems.
- High-density 20-28 port variants enable backbone networking for large-scale facilities like power plants or smart factories.
Industrial Ethernet Switch Types by Application
PoE (Power over Ethernet) industrial switches are essentially standard Fast Ethernet or Gigabit network switches with integrated Power over Ethernet functionality. These switches provide both data communication and power through a single RJ45 cable to PoE-capable devices, such as VoIP phones, security cameras, or wireless access points. By using a PoE switch, these devices can operate in locations where neither power outlets nor network connections are available. The key advantage of PoE is its ability to reduce installation costs for both electrical and network wiring, while ensuring that edge devices can function where needed.
Automotive Ethernet switch is a specialized network switch designed to support high-speed data communication in vehicles. It is built to handle the unique requirements of automotive systems, such as reliability, real-time performance, and the ability to withstand harsh environments. These switches facilitate the connection of various in-vehicle components, including infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), sensors, cameras, and other electronic control units (ECUs), allowing them to communicate over Ethernet.
Military Ethernet switch is a robust, high-performance network switch specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of military and defense applications. These switches are engineered to operate in challenging environments, such as extreme temperatures, vibrations, humidity, and electromagnetic interference, while maintaining secure and reliable communication networks.
Railway Ethernet switch is a specialized network switch designed for use in railway communication systems. These switches are built to handle the unique demands of the railway industry, such as high reliability, robust performance in harsh environments, and real-time data transmission for critical systems.
Industrial Ethernet Switch Types by different layers of the OSI：Layer 2/layer 3 Ethernet switch
1. Layer 2 Switches (Data Link Layer)
- Operate at the data link layer, forwarding data using MAC addresses.
- Ideal for local communication within the same network segment.
- Support VLANs for traffic segmentation and redundancy protocols like STP.
2. Layer 3 Switches (Network Layer)
- Perform both switching and routing using IP addresses.
- Enable communication across different subnets.
- Support dynamic routing protocols such as OSPF and RIP for efficient data flow.
Comparison of Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Switches:
| Feature | Layer 2 Switch | Layer 3 Switch |
| OSI Layer | Data Link Layer | Network Layer |
| Addressing Method | MAC Address | MAC & IP Address |
| VLAN Support | Yes | Yes (with Inter-VLAN Routing) |
| Routing Capability | No | Yes (Static & Dynamic Routing) |
| Application | Local Network Segmentation | Large-scale Industrial Networks |
| Redundancy Support | Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) | Routing Protocols (OSPF, RIP) |
Conclusion
Industrial Ethernet switches are crucial in ensuring stable and high-performance networking in industrial environments. Their classification by function, mounting type, port configuration, application, and OSI layer capabilities allows industries to choose the most suitable option for their specific needs. Whether it is a managed switch for complex automation, a PoE switch for surveillance, or a ruggedized switch for harsh conditions, selecting the right industrial Ethernet switch enhances network efficiency, reliability, and scalability across various industrial applications.
