Glossary Updates12 new terms added to the glossaries · October 2, 2026, 22:44 CEST
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Glossary · System coordination, integration and orchestration

Protocol gateway

Also known as: Protocol converter, Communication gateway

German: Protokoll-Gateway

In industrial communication, a protocol gateway is a device or software component that connects networks or devices using different communication protocols and performs protocol conversion between them.

  • System integration

In one sentence

A protocol gateway connects networks or devices that use different communication protocols and converts between them.

Example

A protocol gateway on a DIN rail links a PROFIBUS DP segment of an older machine to the plant's PROFINET network.

How it applies

  • Engineering: Gateways exist as hardware modules, as functions in controllers or edge devices, and as software services. Select them for the required protocols, data volumes, cycle times and diagnostics.
  • Commissioning: Configure and test the mapping for every value, including status and diagnostic information; check behavior when one side of the connection fails.
  • Security: A gateway between an OT network and higher-level networks is a conduit in IEC 62443 terms. Restrict it to the required data and directions, and keep its firmware updated.
  • Documentation: Document the gateway's configuration, mapping table, firmware version and replacement procedure. A missing gateway configuration backup is a common reason for long downtimes after a hardware failure.

Protocol gateway vs. system gateway

A protocol gateway translates protocols. A System gateway connects whole systems and may also transform data, enforce security policies and aggregate information. Many products do both; the distinction is in the role.

By knowledge.aitechdoc.world · Published September 26, 2026 · Last reviewed

Source: AI TechDoc Knowledge editorial definition, based on industrial communication practice and IEC 62443 zone and conduit concepts

Definitions follow the cited standards and specifications. Where a source is a copyrighted publication, such as an ISO, IEC or EN standard, the definition is a close paraphrase, not a verbatim quotation, so as not to infringe copyright. We recommend reading the original publication. The sections “How it applies” are editorial commentary by AI TechDoc Knowledge and are not part of any standard.

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