Configuring Network Redundancy

To connect to machines using dual network connections for redundancy you need to first define network addresses for each network interface and then specify which network addresses to use for each server.

To configure network redundancy:

1. In the Topology activity, choose Edit | Network Addresses.

2. Using the Grid Editor or the Property Grid, define the network address for each network interface card. See Add Network Addresses.

3. In the Topology activity, choose Edit and then the server type you want to connect to the network.

4. In Network Addresses field, type the dual addresses for the server separated by a comma. For example, "AlarmPrimaryLAN1,AlarmPrimaryLAN2".

   Note: If you are using address forwarding to enable server redirection, you need to consider how this may be impacted by network redundancy. For more information see Server Redirection Using Address Forwarding.

Using hostnames with dual network interface cards

Plant SCADA allows you to use a hostname when defining network addresses. This can simplify the configuration of a redundant network, as static IP addresses are not required. It also enables network redundancy for an OPC UA Server or an Industrial Graphics Server.

However, if you have used hostnames to define the network addresses for dual network interface cards in a computer, you will need to confirm some additional network configuration settings. This is required when one of the cards is used for the SCADA network, and the other for the PLC network.

You need to confirm a DNS setting for the communications adapter used by the PLC network.

In Windows Network and Sharing Center (accessible via Control Panel), select Change adapter settings and view the properties for the PLC network connection.

Locate TCP/IPV4 or TCP/IPV6 in the list of used items, and select Properties again. Open the Advanced properties, then go to the DNS settings.

Make sure Register this connection's addresses in DNS is NOT selected.

See Also

Network Redundancy