2025-04-29
Choosing a network switch for your industrial operation is a bit like picking the right tool for a DIY project. You know what needs to be done, but grabbing a hammer when you really need a screwdriver isn’t going to get you very far. The key is finding the right tool for the job—and with the Stratix series, Rockwell Automation has built a toolbox that’s hard to ignore.
Whether you need the straightforward reliability of the Stratix 5700 or the security-first approach of the Stratix 5900, each model has a role to play. But how do these tools compare to the competition? More importantly, which one is the right fit for your industrial network?
Let’s dive in and find out.
Stratix 5700: The Reliable All-Rounder
If you had to pick a go-to switch for handling most industrial networking challenges, the Stratix 5700 would be that trusted multi-tool you always keep within reach. Designed for small to medium-sized networks, the 5700 emphasizes flexibility without overcomplication, standing out where reliability and ease of use are crucial.
Allen-Bradley Stratix 1783-BMS10CA
At its core, the Stratix 5700 operates as both a Layer 2 and Layer 3 switch, managing basic and advanced routing duties with ease. Whether you're maintaining smooth machine-to-machine communication on a factory floor or ensuring data flow in a distribution center, the 5700 keeps traffic moving without bottlenecks.
Key Features and Part Numbers
-
Scalability: Models like 1783-BMS10CGN and 1783-BMS20CGP range from 6 to 20 ports.
-
Gigabit and Fast Ethernet Support: Handle everything from basic I/O to high-bandwidth video streams.
-
PoE+ Support: Models like 1783-BMS10CGP provide up to 30W per port—ideal for powering IP cameras and VoIP devices.
-
Dual-media Ports: The 1783-BMS20CGP features four SFP combo ports for both copper and fiber connections.
Durability and Environmental Protection
Built to endure extreme environments, the Stratix 5700 features:
-
Operating temperatures from -40°C to 75°C.
-
ATEX, CE, and UL certifications.
-
Conformal coating for resistance against dust, moisture, and chemicals.
Protocol and Integration Support
The Stratix 5700 offers extensive protocol support, including:
-
CIP (Common Industrial Protocol) and Modbus TCP.
-
QoS (Quality of Service) and IGMP Snooping for data prioritization.
-
Seamless integration with PLCs, HMIs, and other industrial devices.
Competitor Comparison: Cisco IE-2000 vs. Hirschmann RS20
| Feature | Stratix 5700 | Cisco IE-2000 | Hirschmann RS20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | High (Rockwell Integration) | Lower (Complex setup) | Moderate |
| PoE Support | Yes | Yes | No |
| Gigabit Ethernet | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Environmental Durability | High | High | Very High |
| Price | Moderate | Higher | Moderate |
-
Cisco IE-2000: Highly durable and performant, but requires greater networking expertise to deploy and manage, with a higher price tag.
-
Hirschmann RS20: Extremely rugged but lacks the Gigabit bandwidth and PoE support needed for many modern applications.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, ease of deployment, and industrial reliability, the Stratix 5700 stands out.
Stratix 5900: The Security Gatekeeper
When it’s not just about managing traffic but protecting it, the Stratix 5900 takes center stage. Think of it as the security guard for your industrial network.
With integrated firewall and VPN capabilities, the 5900 is built for operations that demand advanced protection—especially when dealing with remote access or segmented network zones.
Key Features and Part Numbers
-
Part Numbers:
-
1783-IPS20G (10 Gigabit Ethernet + 10 SFP Combo Ports)
-
1783-IPS10G (streamlined model for smaller setups)
-
-
VPN Capabilities: Support for up to 100 VPN tunnels for secure remote access.
-
Stateful Firewall: Monitors active connections and enforces security policies.
-
Throughput: Handles up to 850 Mbps, keeping network performance strong even under security-heavy workloads.
Ruggedized Security Performance
-
Operating temperature from -25°C to 70°C.
-
NAT (Network Address Translation) support for secure multi-location communication.
Competitor Comparison: Moxa EDR-G902 vs. Cisco IE-4000
| Feature | Stratix 5900 | Moxa EDR-G902 | Cisco IE-4000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| VPN Tunnels Supported | 100 | 25 | High (complex setup) |
| Throughput | 850 Mbps | 500 Mbps | High |
| Ease of Use | High | High | Low (complex setup) |
| Security Features | Advanced | Moderate | Advanced |
| Price | Moderate | Moderate | Higher |
-
Moxa EDR-G902: Solid firewall capabilities but far fewer VPN tunnels and lower throughput.
-
Cisco IE-4000: Very powerful, but complex to configure and often priced higher than necessary for mid-size industrial networks.
In terms of scalability, security, and user-friendliness, the Stratix 5900 delivers an unbeatable balance for industrial network protection.
Choosing the Right Tool for the Job
Whether you need a flexible, rugged switch or a fortified security appliance, Rockwell’s Stratix series has the right option:
-
Stratix 5700: Reliable multi-tool, ideal for small and mid-sized operations needing strong performance without heavy complexity.
-
Stratix 5900: Robust security gatekeeper for operations requiring strict remote access, segmentation, and industrial-grade VPN/firewall protection.
Final Thoughts
In the end, managing an industrial network isn’t just about connecting devices—it’s about ensuring performance, security, and reliability every step of the way.
With the Stratix series, you’re getting more than switches—you’re getting purpose-built industrial network solutions backed by Rockwell Automation's expertise.
If you’re looking for a switch that fits today’s needs—and tomorrow’s growth—Stratix delivers.
Looking for Stratix 5000 Series drives or expert support? Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271