As industrial networks become more intelligent and interconnected, choosing the right industrial Ethernet switch is no longer a simple task. With diverse options ranging from unmanaged switches to Layer 2/3 managed switches, DIN-rail or rack-mounted, PoE-enabled or not, professionals must carefully evaluate their needs to ensure optimal network performance, stability, and scalability.

In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through the key considerations for selecting industrial Ethernet switches—from foundational concepts to advanced selection criteria. Whether you’re a beginner setting up your first SCADA system or an engineer building an Industry 4.0-ready infrastructure, this article is your complete roadmap.

1. What Is an Industrial Ethernet Switch?

An industrial Ethernet switch is a rugged networking device designed for harsh environments like factories, energy stations, transportation systems, and outdoor installations. Unlike commercial switches, they offer:

• Wide operating temperature ranges (typically -40°C to +75°C)

• EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) protection

• DIN-rail or wall mounting support

• Redundant power inputs

• High reliability for 24/7 operation

These switches serve as the backbone of industrial control systems, enabling seamless data communication between PLCs, HMIs, sensors, IP cameras, and cloud platforms.

2. Managed vs. Unmanaged: Which One Do You Need?

Unmanaged Switches

• Simple plug-and-play devices

• No configuration required

• Suitable for basic, isolated or non-critical applications

✅ Best for: Small systems, edge devices, temporary setups

Managed Switches (L2 or L3)

• Allow VLAN, QoS, IGMP snooping, redundancy, diagnostics

• Support remote management and monitoring

• Critical for segmented, scalable, or high-availability networks

✅ Best for: SCADA, automation lines, smart city projects, power grid systems

Pro Tip: Start with L2 managed switches for most industrial applications. L3 is needed when routing between subnets or when acting as a core switch.

3. Key Features to Look for in Industrial Ethernet Switches

To make an informed choice, evaluate switches based on these six essential criteria:

✅ 1. Port Type and Speed

• Fast Ethernet (100Mbps): Suitable for legacy devices and low-bandwidth systems

• Gigabit Ethernet (1000Mbps): Recommended for modern systems, video surveillance, or future expansion

• Combo ports (SFP + RJ45): Allow fiber and copper flexibility

✅ 2. Mounting Method

• DIN-Rail Mounted: Compact, easy installation in control cabinets

• Rack-Mounted: Ideal for centralized network control rooms

✅ 3. Power Supply Options

• Dual redundant DC inputs enhance fault tolerance

• PoE/PoE+ support is useful for powering IP cameras, access points, or sensors

✅ 4. Environmental Durability

• Wide temperature range: -40°C to +75°C

• IP-rated enclosures for dust/moisture protection

• Fanless design ensures silent, low-maintenance operation

✅ 5. Network Management Functions

Look for L2 features like:

• VLAN (IEEE 802.1Q) for traffic segmentation

• QoS for prioritizing control signals

• IGMP snooping for multicast optimization

• RSTP/ERPS for network redundancy

• Port mirroring & SNMP for diagnostics

✅ 6. Certifications

• EMC standards (IEC 61000, EN55022)

• Railway or marine certifications (EN50155, DNV) if required

4. Application-Specific Considerations

Different industries have different requirements. Tailor your switch choice based on your application:

5. Tips for Future-Proofing Your Network

• Plan for scalability: Choose switches with extra ports and Gigabit capabilities.

• Standardize on managed switches: Even for smaller systems, management features are worth the investment.

• Use fiber for long-distance or EMI-sensitive areas.

• Ensure integration compatibility: Match switch protocols with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA software.

• Document your network: Label ports and IP addresses from the start.

6. Why Choose Yuhang Industrial Switches?

Yuhang is a trusted supplier of industrial Ethernet switches, offering solutions tailored for automation, energy, security, and more. Our product lines include:

• Unmanaged & L2 Managed 100Mbps / Gigabit Switches

• PoE-enabled models for IP devices

• DIN-rail and rack-mounted designs

• Support for RSTP, VLAN, QoS, SNMP, and more

• Wide temperature, surge protection, and fanless operation

We support OEM/ODM customization and fast technical support to help integrators deploy smarter, safer, and more stable industrial networks.

Choosing the right industrial Ethernet switch requires more than just counting ports. From environmental durability and bandwidth capacity to network management capabilities, every detail matters when building a reliable infrastructure.

Whether you're just getting started or upgrading to meet modern demands, follow this guide to make smarter decisions—and future-proof your industrial network.