Protocol Comparison
DeviceNetvsEtherNet/IP
Comprehensive comparison of two leading industrial communication protocols to help you choose the right solution for your automation project.
DeviceNet
CAN-based fieldbus protocol for industrial automation. Part of the CIP family with EtherNet/IP and ControlNet.
Type:Fieldbus
Speed:500 kbps max
Released:1994
Adoption:Medium (declining)
EtherNet/IP
Industrial Protocol using standard Ethernet and TCP/IP. Primary protocol for Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) systems.
Type:Industrial Ethernet
Speed:1 Gbps
Released:2001
Adoption:Very High
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | DeviceNet | EtherNet/IP |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 500 kbps max | ✓1 Gbps |
| Cost | ●Medium-High | ●Medium-High |
| Complexity | Low | ✓High |
| Real-Time | ●Yes | ●Yes |
| Scalability | ✓Limited | Excellent |
| Industry Support | Medium (declining) | ✓Very High |
| Max Nodes | 64 | Unlimited (network dependent) |
✓Better
●Tie
When to Choose DeviceNet
Best For:
- •I/O device networks
- •Small sensor/actuator networks
- •Machine-level automation
- •Material handling
- •Packaging equipment
Key Advantages:
- ✓Power and data on same cable
- ✓Simple installation
- ✓Cost-effective for small networks
- ✓CIP family integration
- ✓Robust error handling (CAN)
Choose DeviceNet for existing Rockwell installations, small device networks, or when power-over-bus is needed.
When to Choose EtherNet/IP
Best For:
- •Allen-Bradley PLC systems
- •Automotive manufacturing
- •Food and beverage processing
- •Material handling
- •Packaging machinery
Key Advantages:
- ✓Uses standard unmodified Ethernet
- ✓Seamless IT/OT integration
- ✓CIP protocol consistency (DeviceNet, ControlNet)
- ✓Excellent diagnostics
- ✓Integrated safety (CIP Safety)
Choose EtherNet/IP for Rockwell/Allen-Bradley systems, North American facilities, or when standardizing on CIP family protocols.
Industry Adoption & Use Cases
DeviceNet
Market Share:5-10% (declining as EtherNet/IP grows)
Primary Industries:
AutomotiveMaterial HandlingPackagingDiscrete Manufacturing
Geographic Strength:North America, Asia
EtherNet/IP
Market Share:30-35% of industrial Ethernet (dominant in North America)
Primary Industries:
AutomotiveFood & BeveragePackagingMaterial HandlingDiscrete Manufacturing
Geographic Strength:Worldwide, strongest in North America
Need Help Choosing?
Explore detailed guides for both protocols to make an informed decision.