Network Architecture Design for Industrial Automation Systems

At No Ceilings, we specialize in Network Architecture Design for industrial automation systems. In today’s connected manufacturing and processing environments, a well-architected network isn’t just an asset, it’s critical infrastructure.

Whether you’re planning a greenfield facility, expanding existing operations, or modernizing legacy systems, our team ensures your network is designed with resilience, security, and future scalability in mind.

Grounded in Industry Standards

Most modern industrial network architectures are based on the Purdue Enterprise Reference Architecture (PERA), or simply the Purdue model. This layered approach separates the enterprise, operations, and control environments into distinct zones, which:

• Enhances security by containing risks within levels
• Simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance
• Allows each layer to evolve independently with minimal disruption

Our network designs typically align to this model, while being tailored to your unique process, security requirements, and corporate IT policies.

CAD-Style vs. Isometric Diagrams

We understand that different audiences need different visualizations. That’s why we offer two complementary ways of presenting your network architecture.

CAD-Style Network Diagrams

Highly technical, precise, and detail-oriented, these CAD-style schematics are built for:

• Your internal engineering teams
• Vendors who need port-level clarity
• Documentation for compliance or audits

They typically include switch models, VLAN assignments, IP address plans, firewall placements, and physical connectivity.

Isometric Network Diagrams

While still technical, these isometric diagrams present the architecture in a way that’s easier for broader stakeholders to understand. They’re ideal for:

• Executive presentations
• Cross-departmental discussions
• Training materials

By using an isometric style, we show logical relationships and traffic flows without overwhelming non-network specialists with fine-grain details.

Our Design Process

Every facility is different, whether it’s a discrete manufacturing plant, a food processing line, or a multi-site oil & gas operation. That’s why our process is collaborative and tailored to your environment.

1. Requirements & Discovery

• Conduct workshops with your IT, OT, and operations teams
• Gather existing network maps, device inventories, and performance requirements
• Identify security zones, compliance needs (such as ISA/IEC 62443), and any known pain points

2. Drafting the Architecture

• Develop initial network sketches based on your workflows, traffic patterns, and critical systems
• Align to the Purdue model or your existing enterprise segmentation standards
• Identify redundancy requirements

3. Building Technical Drawings

• Generate CAD-style technical diagrams showing detailed port mappings, switch configurations, and routing/firewall strategies
• Simultaneously create isometric views for high-level stakeholders

This dual-deliverable ensures everyone, from your plant engineers to your CIO, can understand and sign off on the design.

4. Reviews & Iterations

• Hold collaborative design review sessions with your team
• Incorporate feedback to optimize performance, security, and cost
• Ensure alignment with your IT standards and future expansion plans

5. Final Handoff & Documentation

• Deliver finalized drawings in editable formats (DWG, Visio, PDF as required)
• Provide IP address plans, VLAN charts, firewall rule summaries, and any bill-of-materials if requested
• Remain available for support during implementation or vendor coordination

Why Choose Us?

Industry expertise

We specialize in the intersection of IT and industrial automation (OT), understanding the nuances of real-time systems, control networks, and legacy protocol integration.

Security-centric

From segmentation to secure remote access, we design with cybersecurity front and center.

Future-ready

We don’t just plan for today. We ensure your architecture can scale with Industry 4.0 initiatives like IIoT, edge computing, and advanced analytics.

Visual clarity

Our dual-format approach is precise CAD for engineers, isometric for stakeholders and streamlines buy-in across all levels of your organization.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re upgrading an aging infrastructure or building a brand-new facility, we’d love to partner with you.

Get started here to request a quote and learn how our Network Architecture Design service can elevate your operations.