As we navigate through 2025, the industrial automation sector continues to evolve rapidly, driven by the need for efficiency, scalability, and real-time communication in smart factories and Industry 4.0 initiatives. With the rise of digital transformation, professionals and businesses are increasingly searching for insights into the most effective industrial automation protocols to streamline operations and stay competitive. Based on recent trends and Google search activity, this article explores the top 10 industrial automation protocols dominating the conversation in 2025, why they matter, and where you can learn more about them.
Table of Contents
Why Industrial Automation Protocols Are Trending
Industrial automation protocols are the backbone of modern manufacturing, enabling seamless communication between devices like PLCs, sensors, actuators, and software systems. As industries adopt technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and 5G, the demand for robust, secure, and high-speed protocols is surging. Google searches reflect this growing interest, with professionals seeking protocols that support real-time data exchange, interoperability, and cybersecurity. Below, we dive into the top 10 protocols that are shaping the automation landscape in 2025, based on their prominence in industry discussions and search trends.
Top 10 Industrial Automation Protocols in 2025
- PROFINET
- Why It’s Trending: PROFINET, an Ethernet-based protocol, is a favorite in Europe, particularly in automotive and factory automation, due to its real-time capabilities and seamless integration with legacy PROFIBUS systems.
- Key Features: Deterministic communication, high-speed data transfer, and support for IIoT.
- Applications: Robotics, motion control, and synchronized systems.
- Learn More: PROFINET Overview – PROFIBUS & PROFINET International
- EtherNet/IP
- Why It’s Trending: Dominant in North America, EtherNet/IP leverages standard Ethernet for robust, real-time communication, making it a go-to for IT/OT convergence.
- Key Features: Uses Common Industrial Protocol (CIP), supports large device networks, and integrates with enterprise systems.
- Applications: Manufacturing, robotics, and IIoT deployments.
- Learn More: EtherNet/IP – ODVA
- Modbus (TCP/RTU)
- Why It’s Trending: Its simplicity and open-source nature keep Modbus a staple in Google searches, especially for those upgrading legacy systems or integrating new devices.
- Key Features: Modbus TCP uses Ethernet for faster communication, while RTU supports serial connections.
- Applications: Building management, energy systems, and industrial automation.
- Learn More: Modbus Organization
- EtherCAT
- Why It’s Trending: Known for its low latency and high-speed performance, EtherCAT is gaining traction in searches for precision automation solutions.
- Key Features: Real-time deterministic communication and efficient data processing.
- Applications: Motion control, robotics, and high-speed automation.
- Learn More: EtherCAT Technology Group
- OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture)
- Why It’s Trending: As a cornerstone of Industry 4.0, OPC UA is highly searched for its platform-independent, secure, and scalable communication capabilities.
- Key Features: Complex data modeling, cybersecurity features, and IoT compatibility.
- Applications: Cross-platform integration, IIoT, and smart factories.
- Learn More: OPC Foundation
- PROFIBUS
- Why It’s Trending: Though older, PROFIBUS remains relevant in searches due to its widespread use in legacy systems and its ability to integrate with PROFINET.
- Key Features: Reliable, supports diagnostics, and available in DP and PA variants.
- Applications: Pharmaceuticals, oil/gas, and process automation.
- Learn More: PROFIBUS Overview – PROFIBUS & PROFINET International
- CANopen
- Why It’s Trending: Its efficiency in embedded systems makes CANopen a frequent search for automotive and control applications.
- Key Features: Simple, reliable, and supports up to 127 devices.
- Applications: Automotive, motion control, and embedded systems.
- Learn More: CAN in Automation (CiA)
- DeviceNet
- Why It’s Trending: While less common in new installations, DeviceNet is still searched for its role in legacy systems and CIP-based communication.
- Key Features: Low-cost, plug-and-play device integration.
- Applications: Manufacturing and legacy automation systems.
- Learn More: DeviceNet – ODVA
- HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer)
- Why It’s Trending: HART’s hybrid analog-digital communication and WirelessHART variant are popular in searches for process automation solutions.
- Key Features: Supports remote diagnostics and data acquisition.
- Applications: Oil/gas, chemicals, and sensor/transmitter networks.
- Learn More: HART Communication Foundation
- CC-Link
- Why It’s Trending: CC-Link, especially its Ethernet-based CC-Link IE variant, is gaining attention in Asia, particularly Japan, for its high-speed networking capabilities.
- Key Features: Supports large device networks and integrates with Ethernet.
- Applications: Automotive, electronics, and manufacturing.
- Learn More: CC-Link Partner Association
Why These Protocols Are Dominating Google Searches
The surge in searches for these protocols reflects their critical role in enabling smart manufacturing and addressing modern challenges like cybersecurity, scalability, and real-time data needs. According to industry insights, Ethernet-based protocols like PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and EtherCAT account for 71% of new industrial network nodes in 2025, driven by their compatibility with standard Ethernet and IIoT systems. OPC UA, in particular, stands out for its role in cross-vendor interoperability and secure data exchange, making it a hot topic for those exploring Industry 4.0 solutions. Legacy protocols like Modbus and PROFIBUS remain relevant due to their widespread use in existing systems, while newer protocols like CC-Link IE are gaining traction in specific regions.
For the latest updates on industrial automation trends and protocols, platforms like Newzpulz provide real-time insights and news, helping professionals stay informed about emerging technologies and market shifts. Visit Newzpulz for cutting-edge articles and analysis.
Emerging Trends Influencing Protocol Adoption
- IIoT and 5G Integration: Protocols like OPC UA and EtherNet/IP are trending due to their ability to handle the massive data volumes generated by IIoT devices and 5G networks.
- Cybersecurity Focus: With rising cyber threats, protocols with robust security features, such as OPC UA and PROFINET, are highly sought after.
- Sustainability and Efficiency: Protocols that support predictive maintenance and energy-efficient systems, like EtherCAT and HART, align with the push for sustainable manufacturing.
- Regional Preferences: Searches vary by region—PROFINET in Europe, EtherNet/IP in North America, and CC-Link in Asia—reflecting localized adoption trends.
How to Stay Ahead in 2025
To leverage these protocols effectively, professionals should focus on:
- Learning Key Protocols: Start with widely-used protocols like Modbus, OPC UA, and EtherNet/IP, as they are foundational for modern automation.
- Exploring Unified Namespace: This emerging concept, which uses protocols like OPC UA for centralized data management, is gaining traction in searches.
- Upskilling: Stay updated on multi-protocol technologies and cybersecurity practices to ensure compatibility and resilience in automation systems.
For deeper insights, check out resources like Automation.com for articles on communication protocols or Rockwell Automation for vendor-specific solutions and trends.
Conclusion
The top industrial automation protocols in 2025—PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT, OPC UA, PROFIBUS, CANopen, DeviceNet, HART, and CC-Link—are driving the future of smart manufacturing. Their prominence in Google searches underscores their importance in enabling efficient, secure, and scalable communication in industrial environments. By staying informed through platforms like Newzpulz and the referenced resources, businesses and professionals can make strategic decisions to harness these protocols for competitive advantage in the evolving automation landscape.
Stay tuned to Newzpulz for the latest news and trends in industrial automation and beyond!
