A Syllabus for Network Engineering in IEC 61850-Based PACS Systems

Protection, Automation, and Control Systems (PACS) in electric power systems, with a focus on communication networks that support IEC 61850. It addresses the fundamental gap between traditional IT-centric network training and the practical needs of engineers and technicians who operate PACS environments. Unlike typical office networks, PACS networks demand deterministic communication, real-time performance, strict availability, integrity, and timing requirements. The training model emphasizes relevance and clarity for a power system audience, removing unnecessary complexity while introducing the unique challenges of

Ethernet in digital substations.

The syllabus is structured into complementary theoretical and practical modules. The theory modules present foundational concepts in network architecture, redundancy, traffic engineering for GOOSE and Sampled Values, switch hardening practices, VLAN segmentation, and time synchronization using Precision Time Protocol (PTP). Time synchronization is explored from a PACS network perspective as well.

The practical modules include hands-on labs that mirror real-world deployment tasks, such as analyzing traffic, simulating topology changes, and assessing redundancy switchover behavior.

Participants also work on PTP configurations using various profiles, analyze jitter and latency, and validate engineering files (SSD/SCD) through compliance and mapping exercises. These labs reinforce the theoretical content and prepare students to troubleshoot, validate, and commission IEC 61850-based PACS networks effectively. An additional chapter introduces advanced training topics, offered as elective extensions for more experienced professionals or teams facing specific deployment scenarios. These include

Layer 3 network design, MPLS-TP transport for inter-substation and control center connectivity, and wide-area time synchronization using telecom-specific PTP profiles.

Cybersecurity is addressed from an OT-centric perspective, covering perimeter hardening, IEC 62351, IEC 62443, and NERC-CIP/NIST frameworks, including the role of firewalls, segmentation, and IDS systems aligned with zone/conduit models. Finally, the paper explores

Intent-Based Networking (IBN) as an evolution of PACS network orchestration, for automated configuration and real-time supervision.

This training approach reflects the growing convergence between power systems and communications engineering. It prioritizes practical understanding, system reliability, and standard-compliant design practices, equipping power engineers with the necessary skills to configure, maintain, and evolve modern digital substations.