What is DNP3 Protocol?

The DNP3 or Distributed Network Protocol is a set of communications protocols used between components in process automation systems.

It is usually used is in utilities such as water and electric companies.

It is also technically possible to use it in other utilities. It was specifically developed to facilitate communications between various types of data acquisition and control systems.

It plays a crucial role in SCADA systems. It is used by SCADA Master Stations or Control Centers, Remote Terminal Units, and Intelligent Electronic Devices. It is primarily used for communications between a master station and IEDs or RTU’s.

DNP3 supports multiple-slave, peer-to-peer and multiple-master communications. It supports the operational modes of polled and quiescent operation. The latter is also referred to as reporting by exception.

Overview of theDNP3 Protocol

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