# How to Design a PROFINET Network?

**URL:** <https://forumautomation.com/t/how-to-design-a-profinet-network/12497>\
**Category:** Field Instrumentation\
**Tags:** automation\
**Created:** [August 27, 2024, 12:25pm UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/how-to-design-a-profinet-network/12497 "2024-08-27T12:25:44Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/user_avatar/forumautomation.com/rabert/32/6784_2.png) [@Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/u/Rabert)\
**Post date:** [August 27, 2024, 12:25pm UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/how-to-design-a-profinet-network/12497/1 "2024-08-27T12:25:45Z")

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## Topology

Select an appropriate topology based on your requirements that may be star, tree or ring topology all of same complexity.

 ![image](https://cdn.forumautomation.com/original/2X/d/d9b388fea4ef58f0e94601b840e4d54c2d79cf4d.jpeg)

## Network Size

The number of devices that exist within a selected segment needs to be estimated together with the distance between these devices.

## Device Classification

Devices should be grouped under I/O devices, controllers, among others, in order to achieve an organized network.

## IP Addressing

Allocate real IP addresses and subnets for right communication as well as to divide the network into sections.

## Redundancy

More importantly, network redundancy for the key equipment & the network should be instituted to support the provision of reliability.

## Security

They should incorporate security measures like the fire walls which provide barriers between the networks, use of VPNs or Virtual Private Networks and access control.

## Quality of Service (QoS)

To do this; adjust QoS settings so that more important traffic gets preferred.

## Network Segmentation

Divide the network in different subsections in order to increase its overall efficiency and reduce vulnerability.

## Cable Management

It is also important to manage the cables properly so as to minimize errors that would affect the reliability of the network.

## Documentation

Record the network design and setup to help you whenever you’re encountering a similar issue in the future.

# Some Additional Tips

- Implement PROFINET compatible equipment and network.
- Show that the networks must be synchronize and have the right timing at all costs.
- Perform measures of network monitoring and diagnostics.
- It is recommended to use PROFINET network planner or use design tool to arrange the network.
- Understand and adhere to industry standard when it comes to designing and implementing networks, particularly with regards to their security.

In this manner, it is possible to achieve a reliable, efficient and secure PROFINET network that will fulfil industrial automation requirements.