TSN Ethernet – time-sensitive networking

Currently, most local and regional switched packet data networks are built using Ethernet technology, which is the focus of the IEEE 802 group of standards. It has many advantages – high bandwidth, simplicity, scalability, compatibility, etc. But on the other hand, in Ethernet networks there is no predictability in data delivery, which limits their use in real-time systems, especially for industrial applications. Therefore, the IEEE has developed a special modification of Ethernet technology – Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN). TSN technology is based on the IEEE 802.1 and IEEE 802.3 standards and therefore is fully compatible with classic Ethernet technology, but at the same time provides a minimum and predictable data packet delay level. In recent years, TSN technology has begun to be actively implemented not only in industrial networks, for example, industrial Internet of things IIoT networks, but also in traditional communication networks, for example, to implement the fronthaul segment in 5G networks. However, information on TSN networks is practically not covered and is not summarized on the pages of domestic publications. With this in mind, this article provides an overview of TSN standards, technologies and principles for building time-sensitive networks.