Ethernet Data Diode for Secure Industrial Networking

Patton recently introduced the FiberPlex FP-DD100 Industrial Data Diode, which it describes as “an ultra-miniature copper Ethernet data diode designed for secure industrial environments.” The diode is ideally suited for Internet of Things sensor networks, and industrial automation systems. “Such organizations need to extract sensor and operational data for predictive maintenance, live monitoring, and statistical analysis, without compromising network security,” Patton explained. “The device prevents sensor manipulation while enabling secure data extraction from protected networks.”

Integrated Power over Ethernet (PoE) support simplifies installation and reduces infrastructure requirements for environments with limited access to power.

The FP-DD100 offers unidirectional network segmentation using guaranteed one-way data transfer technology, enabling organizations to modernize and digitize their operations without introducing cybersecurity risks.

“The FP-DD100 represents a significant advancement in industrial cybersecurity,” pointed out Patton’s chief revenue officer Burton A. Patton. “We offer customers the ability to safely bridge air-gapped networks while maintaining the highest levels of network protection.”

The data diode provides failsafe, physical layer separation for hardware-enforced unidirectional data flow, the company added. “This compact, rugged solution is engineered for industrial environments where ruggedized form factor, reliability, and security are paramount,” Burton Patton continued.

The company further stated that demand for secure ingress or egress from air-gapped networks is growing, particularly in environments including nuclear power facilities, electrical distribution systems, water treatment plants, and transportation networks. “Critical infrastructure operators can leverage the FP-DD100 to collect, process, and analyze vital operational data while maintaining the protective characteristics of an air-gapped network,” the company said. “This capability is essential for organizations that seek to implement modern digital monitoring and analytics while preserving cybersecurity requirements.”

The FP-DD100’s internal optical technology guarantees isolated unidirectional flow that cannot be reversed by malware, destructive data, or administrative errors. The physical separation provides persistent network protection. It features a miniature rugged metal enclosure that is optimized for DIN-rail mounting in space-constrained installations. It also requires minimal setup; it is optimized for User Datagram Protocol (UDP) data transfer applications, thereby streamlining deployment. It also can handle File Transfer Protocol (FTP), as well as other protocols, when paired with Patton’s FPSW-DDC Data Diode Controller Proxy Software.