Ethernet IP vs. PROFINET

Which One Fits Your Automation Needs?

In today’s fast-paced industrial automation world, engineers often face a tricky choice—Ethernet IP or PROFINET? Both are powerful Ethernet-based protocols built for speed, scalability, and reliability. But they’re not created equal.

At plcdcspro.com, we specialize in automation hardware and understand how important it is to select the right communication protocol for your system. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make the right decision.

What is Ethernet IP?

Ethernet IP, developed by ODVA and widely supported by Rockwell Automation, uses standard Ethernet hardware and the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP). It uses both TCP/IP and UDP for data transport.
It works on a producer-consumer model, where devices can share data simultaneously. While it’s very reliable and widely used in North America, it has slightly more latency due to its reliance on higher OSI layers.

What is PROFINET?

PROFINET is developed by Siemens Automation and also runs over Ethernet. Like Ethernet IP, it uses a producer-consumer architecture, but with enhanced speed and accuracy due to its real-time variants:

• RT (Real-Time): Fast communication using Ethernet without TCP/UDP.

• IRT (Isochronous Real-Time): Ultra-fast, clock-synchronized communication—perfect for motion control.

PROFINET devices use GSDML files, whereas Ethernet IP requires ESD files for configuration.

Speed Comparison

If your application requires motion control or precise synchronization, PROFINET with IRT is the clear winner.

Application Use Cases

• Ethernet IP:
  Ideal for general-purpose automation, control systems, and data transfer applications where speed is important—but not critical.

• PROFINET:
  The go-to protocol for high-speed motion control—robotics, CNC machines, and systems needing microsecond-level synchronization.

Hardware & Software Requirements

• Ethernet IP:
  Standard switches are fine. Managed by Rockwell, common in American factories.

• PROFINET:
  RT can run on regular switches, but IRT requires special PROFINET switches and interface cards. Mainly used in Europe, managed by Siemens.

Conclusion

Both Ethernet IP and PROFINET are excellent choices, depending on your project’s performance and budget needs.

If you're building a high-speed, motion-intensive system, PROFINET IRT is your best bet. But if you're working with large control systems and prefer integration with Rockwell products, Ethernet IP serves well.

At plcdcspro.com, we carry a wide range of PLC components, modules, cards, sensors, and more, with rich stock availability.

🔧 Recommended Modules from Our Inventory

…and many more from brands like ABB, Fuji, and Westinghouse available on our store.

👉 Visit our full catalog at plcdcspro.com

Need help choosing? Contact our technical support team—we’re always here to help with configuration, compatibility, and sourcing the right parts for your automation system.