EtherNet/IP

EtherNet/IP (Ethernet Industrial Protocol) stands as the premier industrial Ethernet network developed by Rockwell Automation and managed by ODVA, combining standard Ethernet technology with the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) to deliver a comprehensive solution for industrial automation networking. This protocol enables seamless communication from the sensor level through control systems to enterprise applications using unmodified Ethernet hardware and infrastructure, making it one of the most widely deployed industrial Ethernet protocols globally.

The technical foundation of EtherNet/IP builds upon the Common Industrial Protocol, ensuring consistent device models and services across different network implementations. EtherNet/IP uses standard TCP/IP for non-time-critical messages while implementing UDP/IP for implicit messaging that carries time-critical I/O data with minimal protocol overhead. CIP Motion extends the protocol for multi-axis synchronized motion control, achieving deterministic performance through precise time synchronization using IEEE 1588 PTP.

The protocol's producer-consumer communication model optimizes network efficiency by allowing devices to multicast data to multiple consumers simultaneously. Quality of Service mechanisms prioritize time-critical traffic, Device Level Ring topology provides single-fault tolerance with recovery times under 3 milliseconds, and electronic data sheets standardize device configuration. As industrial networks converge toward unified architectures, EtherNet/IP's combination of proven reliability, extensive device ecosystem, and IT compatibility ensures its continued relevance in smart manufacturing environments.