An industrial protocol is a set of standardized communication rules that allow industrial devices, machines, and control systems to exchange data. These protocols are essential for automation, ensuring seamless connectivity between sensors, controllers, and enterprise systems.
Common industrial protocols include OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, and Profibus, each serving different purposes depending on industry requirements. They enable real-time data transfer, remote monitoring, and interoperability between various industrial components.
Selecting the right protocol depends on factors like latency requirements, data security, and network architecture. As Industry 4.0 advances, interoperability between multiple protocols is becoming a key focus in smart manufacturing.