IO-Link Explained: The Powerful Communication Standard

In view of the current economic stagnation, companies are facing the challenge of improving their production facilities and making them more efficient. In this context, IO-Link is proving to be an innovative solution for optimizing systems and modernizing operations. IO-Link is a manufacturer-independent communication standard that enables sensors and actuators in automation technology to be seamlessly integrated into the higher-level control system and also easy to parameterize and configure. 

IO-Link as the key to modernization

By implementing IO-Link, systems can be made more flexible, efficient and future-proof. Companies benefit from shorter downtimes, improved adaptability and greater efficiency. Today, this is a decisive competitive advantage.

In addition, IO-Link makes it easy to integrate new sensors and actuators into existing systems. This makes it easier to modernize and retrofit production lines without having to make extensive changes to the control hardware. Companies can therefore gradually improve their systems and adapt them to new requirements without incurring high investment costs.

If you would like to know how this all works, then the IO-Link Forum on November 13, 2025 in Paderborn offers you a unique exchange of knowledge and promises valuable insights into the world of industrial automation and communication technologies with IO-Link.

The IO-Link Forum offers a wide range of topics for participants of all levels of knowledge in sessions, some of which will take place in parallel. Lectures on the topic of plant modernization in particular have been modified and expanded. A special highlight is the report on an end user's experience with IO-Link. The accompanying Microfair also offers the opportunity to exchange ideas with manufacturers and learn about new products, features and services.

The IO-Link Forum will be held in German language. It is free of charge for participants, but please register in advance.

The IO-Link Community has reached a significant milestone in the further development of IO-Link Safety: TÜV SÜD has successfully tested and officially certified the IO-Link Safety specification V1.1.4. This lays the foundation for the widespread industrial use of the technology-neutral safety solution.

Certification by an independent testing agency marks the end of the development phase for IO-Link Safety and now enables the introduction of market-ready products. As the first officially designated IO-Link Safety Test Center, TÜV SÜD has already begun testing IO-Link Safety masters and devices. The first certified products will be available on the market shortly.

IO-Link Safety is the safety-related extension of the proven IO-Link technology and enables – in line with the IO-Link concept – seamless integration into existing automation and safety structures. The specification was already positively evaluated by TÜV SÜD and the Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the DGUV (IFA) during the concept phase. Based on the proof-of-concept results, the specification was consistently developed further to product maturity together with the associated test specification.

In contrast to conventional IO-Link, IO-Link Safety relies on third-party certification. Manufacturers must have their products tested at a recognized test center—an additional step to ensure the highest quality and safety standards.

With over 20,000 IO-Link-compatible products available and more than 500 manufacturers worldwide, IO-Link offers a dynamic ecosystem that creates ideal conditions for rapid market penetration of IO-Link Safety. The open architecture enables easy integration into all common PLC, DCS, and IoT systems. 

Development costs are particularly high when it comes to functional safety, which makes it all the more valuable that IO-Link Safety requires support for only a single, easily implementable communication standard. As IO-Link Safety devices can be used in all automation systems worldwide without modification, which is why the community expects rapid establishment and fast market growth.
 

The IO-Link Community has published a new Security Deployment Guideline. This is intended to help users evaluate and implement security measures for the use of IO-Link technology. This guideline is an indispensable tool for all those who want to improve the security of their IO-Link systems. The main objective of the IO-Link Secure Deployment Guideline is to provide end users with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively assess and implement security measures for the use of IO-Link technology. The document provides detailed instructions and best practices for the use of secure IO-Link systems. By following this guide, users can ensure that their IO-Link systems are secure and resilient to potential threats.

The Secure Deployment Guideline is available for free in the download area on the IO-Link website (www.io-link.com/downloads).

In addition to the directive for the use of IO-Link, a further guideline for the secure design and secure development of IO-Link products is currently being developed. The IO-Link Secure Design and Development Guideline is aimed at technology and device manufacturers involved in the design and development of IO-Link products. It provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and integrating security measures into IO-Link products. This guide will serve as an essential reference to ensure that safety is a fundamental aspect of product development. The editorial work on the development guideline is nearing completion.

With these activities and guidelines, the IO-Link Community underlines its commitment to future-proof and practical solutions in industrial communication.