Industrial Automation is rapidly evolving, and secure data exchange between control systems has never been more important.
In this project, we demonstrate how the MQTT.box from German manufacturer Wiesemann & Theis (W&T) enables secure communication between an AutomationDirect PLC and an AutomationDirect HMI, even when they operate on two completely separate network segments.
The MQTT.box acts as an industrial-grade Mosquitto MQTT Broker mounted directly on the DIN rail. Its dual Ethernet interfaces allow data to be exchanged between isolated networks while preventing direct network access between them. This architecture improves cybersecurity while maintaining real-time visibility and control. The MQTT.box includes user authentication, Access Control Lists (ACLs), and secure MQTT communications designed for Industry 4.0 and Industrial IoT applications.
Using MQTT publish/subscribe technology, the PLC publishes process data to the MQTT.box, while the HMI subscribes only to the information it requires. The result is efficient, scalable, and secure data transfer without exposing critical control networks.
Key Benefits:
- Secure network segmentation
- MQTT-based Industrial IoT connectivity
- Reliable PLC-to-HMI communication
- Reduced network complexity
- Scalable Industry 4.0 architecture
- DIN rail industrial deployment
- User authentication and ACL security
Whether you’re connecting PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, cloud platforms, or edge devices, the MQTT.box provides a simple and secure pathway for industrial data sharing.
Discover more industrial networking and automation solutions from TE Automation Australia.