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Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term Distributed Network Protocol 3 DNP3

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What is Distributed Network Protocol 3 DNP3?

DNP3 is a SCADA protocol used by utilities to link master stations and RTUs, with IEEE 1815 Secure Authentication adding integrity protection.

Glossary > OT, ICS & IoT Security > Distributed Network Protocol 3 DNP3

Understanding Distributed Network Protocol 3 DNP3

DNP3 is a layered communications protocol widely used in SCADA and industrial control systems, especially in electric and water utilities, to exchange data between master stations and outstations such as RTUs and IEDs. Originally lacking security, it was extended by IEEE Std 1815 with Secure Authentication (DNP3-SA) to add challenge-response authentication and integrity protection against spoofing and replay.

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