Modern SCADA Protocols:
DNP3, IEC 60870-5 and Related Systems
1. Training Introduction
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems form the backbone of modern industrial automation and utility networks, enabling remote monitoring, control, and coordination of critical infrastructure. As SCADA systems evolve, communication protocols such as DNP3, IEC 60870-5-101/104, and related standards have become essential for secure, reliable, and interoperable data exchange across substations, power transmission networks, water plants, pipelines, and industrial facilities.
This training offers an in-depth understanding of modern SCADA communication architectures, protocol structures, addressing schemes, data objects, timing, alarms, redundancy, and cybersecurity features. Through hands-on simulations, packet analysis, and real-world case studies, participants gain the skills to configure, integrate, troubleshoot and maintain SCADA protocols used in modern industrial systems.
2. Training Objective
The course aims to equip participants to:
- Understand the architecture and functionality of modern SCADA systems.
- Learn the principles, message structures, and operation of DNP3, IEC 60870-5-101, IEC 60870-5-104, and related protocols.
- Configure master and outstation/RTU communication links.
- Analyze, capture, and interpret protocol traffic using diagnostic tools.
- Design robust, redundant and secure SCADA communication networks.
- Apply protocol mapping to PLCs, RTUs, IEDs, meters, relays, and gateways.
- Troubleshoot communication issues in operational SCADA systems.
- Understand cybersecurity considerations for critical infrastructure protocols.
3. Targeted Group
Ideal for:
- SCADA and automation engineers
- Electrical power and substation engineers
- Instrumentation and control technicians
- Utility communication engineers
- IT/OT integration specialists
- Protection engineers in T&D systems
- System integrators and network engineers
- Students and trainees in automation or power systems
4. Course Duration
14–16 Days
- Full in-depth programme: 16 days
- Condensed technical session: 14 days
- Online/blended mode available
5. Training Methodology
The methodology blends theory with practical, hands-on experience:
- Instructor-led lectures and protocol demonstrations
- SCADA simulator labs (DNP3, 101, 104 communication exercises)
- Protocol packet tracing using Wireshark and decoding tools
- Real-world case studies from utilities and industrial systems
- Group design and troubleshooting activities
- Quizzes, exercises, and a final integration project
- Discussion of industry standards and best practices
6. Course Content
Module 1: Introduction to Modern SCADA Systems
- SCADA architecture and components (MTU, RTU, PLC, HMI)
- Functions in power, water, oil & gas, and industrial automation
- IT/OT convergence
Module 2: Overview of Industrial Communication Protocols
- Legacy vs. modern protocols
- SCADA protocol selection criteria
- Standards and compliance requirements
Module 3: Introduction to DNP3 Protocol
- History, architecture, and application
- Features: time-stamping, unsolicited messaging, classes
Module 4: DNP3 Data Structures & Object Groups
- Binary inputs/outputs, counters, analog values
- Variations, qualifiers, function codes
Module 5: DNP3 Communication & Network Layers
- Master/outstation communication
- Link-layer, transport, and application-layer mechanisms
- LAN/WAN and serial implementations
Module 6: DNP3 Configuration & Practical Implementation
- Setting up DNP3 master and outstation devices
- Addressing, time sync, event class configuration
- Wireshark capture and interpretation
Module 7: IEC 60870-5-101 Protocol (Serial)
- ASDU structure, control field, cause of transmission
- Balanced/unbalanced modes
- Timing and synchronization
Module 8: IEC 60870-5-104 Protocol (TCP/IP)
- Mapping IEC 101 over TCP/IP networks
- APDU formats, commands and data types
- Communication setup and testing
Module 9: Comparing DNP3 and IEC 60870-5 Protocols
- Differences in architecture and performance
- Use cases for utilities and industrial systems
- Choosing the right protocol
Module 10: Integration with PLCs, RTUs, IEDs & Gateways
- Mapping tags and points
- Modbus-to-DNP3 and 101/104 gateway integration
- Device configuration and protocol conversion
Module 11: SCADA Network Architecture & Redundancy
- Redundant communication paths
- Substation automation systems
- Master station failover techniques
Module 12: Time Synchronization & Event Handling
- GPS/NTP time sync
- Sequence of events (SOE) timestamps
- Alarm and event reporting
Module 13: SCADA Cybersecurity for DNP3 & IEC Protocols
- DNP3 Secure Authentication
- IEC 62351 security standards
- Threats to critical infrastructure networks
- Secure architecture and access control
Module 14: Troubleshooting SCADA Protocol Communication
- Fault tracing and link diagnostics
- Noise, grounding, and serial issues
- Network delays, packet loss, and retries
Module 15: Real-World Case Studies & Best Practices
- Utility substations, water plants, industrial networks
- Communication failures and how they were resolved
- Performance tuning
Module 16: Capstone Project – SCADA Protocol Integration
- Build DNP3 and IEC 104 communication links
- Configure master/outstation devices
- Capture and decode protocol traffic
- Present system design and troubleshooting results
7. Expected Learning Outcomes
Participants will be able to:
- Understand SCADA architectures and communication principles.
- Configure and implement DNP3, IEC 60870-5-101, and 104 protocols.
- Analyze and decode protocol messages using tools like Wireshark.
- Integrate SCADA devices—RTUs, PLCs, IEDs, meters—into complex networks.
- Design robust and secure SCADA communication systems.
- Troubleshoot serial and TCP/IP communication faults.
- Apply international standards to ensure interoperability and security.
- Implement modern SCADA strategies for utility and industrial automation.
8. Certificate of Completion
Participants who complete all modules, assessments, hands-on labs, and the capstone integration project will receive:
Certificate of Completion
Modern SCADA Protocols: DNP3, IEC 60870-5 and Related Systems
Issued by FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre
This certificate validates the participant’s expertise in implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting modern SCADA communication protocols used across critical infrastructure.
