FAQ

IEC TR 61850-90-4 Recommended Switch Features (PTP, PRP/HSR, GOOSE/SV, SCL)

Key point — you don’t need to implement everything at once. Evaluate features by project needs and real-world use. The list below uses three tiers: Must-have, Recommended, and Situational options for IEC 61850-90-4 substation networks.

Feature checklist — Must-have / Recommended / Situational

TierFeatureKey points & target requirementsCommon scenarios
Must-haveQoS (802.1p) / VLAN (802.1Q)Use priority queues and logical isolation to keep GOOSE / SV low-latency and interference-free.All IEC 61850 substation networks
Must-haveStorm ControlSuppress broadcast / multicast flooding to prevent bursts from delaying protection messages.Mixed-traffic environments; operations & maintenance
RecommendedIEEE 1588v2 (PTP; TC / BC; hardware timestamping)Core for Process Bus / synchrophasor; improves SV accuracy and event ordering.Precise timing and event sequencing requirements
RecommendedPRP / HSR seamless redundancy (RedBox when needed)Zero-time switchover for link / node failures; protection / control stays uninterrupted.High availability; protection schemes
RecommendedGOOSE / SV prioritisation and multicast capabilityLine-rate, low-latency; IGMP Snooping / Querier, static multicast, QoS, Storm Control.Real-time comms for protection / control / measurement
RecommendedSCL (System Configuration Language) workflow supportImport / mapping / version control; faster rollout and better interoperability.Multi-device projects; engineering file handover
SituationalCut-through / low-latency forwardingReduce per-hop latency when bit errors are controlled; combine with QoS.Ultra-low-latency paths
SituationalTSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) featuresConsider for new builds or upgrades; plan together with PTP / QoS.High-determinism requirements
SituationalSecurity hardening (802.1X, ACL, RADIUS, Port Security, etc.)Reduce risks of unauthorised access and malicious traffic; align with IEC 62351 where applicable.Utility cybersecurity policies; remote O&M

Why these features? See the reasons behind real-time, reliability, and interoperability
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