Manufacturing network infrastructure must support demanding requirements that typical office networks never face: plant floor equipment connectivity, real-time data collection, environmental challenges, and the convergence of IT and OT systems. Poor network design creates production bottlenecks, security vulnerabilities, and scalability problems.
Key takeaway: According to Cisco IIoT research, IoT data continues to grow exponentially, with manufacturing facilities generating massive data volumes from connected sensors, equipment, and production systems - requiring robust network infrastructure to handle real-time monitoring and analytics.
Planning network infrastructure? Preferred Data designs and implements industrial network solutions for North Carolina manufacturers. Call (336) 886-3282 or schedule your assessment.
Manufacturing Network Requirements
Piedmont Triad and Charlotte manufacturing facilities require networks that handle:
Plant Floor Connectivity
- CNC machines and PLCs
- Sensors and data collection devices
- Barcode and RFID readers
- Quality inspection equipment
Business System Support
- ERP and MES applications
- File servers and collaboration
- Voice and video communications
- Cloud application access
Environmental Challenges
- Industrial temperature and humidity
- Electrical interference from equipment
- Dust, vibration, and physical hazards
- Extended distances across facilities
Network Segmentation for Manufacturing
Proper segmentation separates network traffic for security and performance:
IT/OT Separation
Keep operational technology isolated from business systems:
- Dedicated OT network segments
- Controlled connection points between IT and OT
- Industrial firewalls and DMZs
- Monitoring for cross-segment traffic
This segmentation protects production systems from threats that enter through business systems.
Guest and Vendor Networks
Separate networks for visitors and contractors:
- Isolated from production systems
- Controlled internet access
- Time-limited connections
- No lateral movement capability
Explore Preferred Data's network infrastructure services
Industrial Wireless Considerations
Plant floor wireless requires industrial-grade solutions:
Access Point Placement
- RF surveys accounting for metal structures
- Coverage for mobile devices and AGVs
- Redundancy for critical areas
- Directional antennas where appropriate
Industrial Specifications
- Extended temperature ratings
- Ingress protection for dust and moisture
- Mounting options for industrial environments
- Power over Ethernet for simplified installation
Greensboro and Raleigh manufacturers implementing wireless data collection need proper industrial wireless design.
Multi-Site Connectivity
Manufacturing companies with multiple facilities need reliable interconnection:
WAN Options
- MPLS for consistent performance
- SD-WAN for flexibility and cost optimization
- Internet VPN for basic connectivity
- Dedicated circuits for critical sites
Design Considerations
- Bandwidth requirements for data replication
- Latency sensitivity of applications
- Redundancy and failover
- Security across site connections
Bandwidth Planning
Manufacturing data volumes grow continuously:
Current Bandwidth Drivers
- ERP and business applications
- Production data collection
- Video surveillance
- Voice and collaboration
Emerging Requirements
- IoT sensors and analytics
- Machine vision and quality systems
- Digital twin and simulation
- Cloud application growth
Design networks with headroom for growth rather than sizing exactly to current needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should network infrastructure be updated?
Network equipment typically has 5-7 year lifecycles. However, security requirements and bandwidth growth may drive earlier refresh. Preferred Data helps manufacturers plan technology refresh cycles aligned with business needs.
What about network monitoring for manufacturing?
Proactive monitoring is essential. Preferred Data provides 24/7 network monitoring that alerts on issues before they impact production. For Charlotte and Piedmont Triad manufacturers, we offer same-day on-site response when needed.
How do we secure our plant floor network?
OT security requires segmentation, monitoring, and controlled access. Industrial firewalls, intrusion detection, and access controls protect production systems. Our cybersecurity team specializes in manufacturing environments.
Build Infrastructure for Growth
Network infrastructure decisions made today support or constrain growth for years. North Carolina manufacturers expanding production, adding equipment connectivity, or implementing Industry 4.0 initiatives need network infrastructure designed for the future.
Preferred Data has designed and implemented industrial network infrastructure across the Piedmont Triad, Charlotte, and Raleigh for 37 years. We understand manufacturing environments and build networks that perform.
Get your free network assessment:
- Phone: (336) 886-3282
- Email: Contact us
- Address: 1208 Eastchester Drive, Suite 131, High Point, NC 27265
On-site support throughout North Carolina and within 200 miles of High Point.
Sources: