TÜV SÜD certifies IO-Link Safety, paving the way for new products
29 August 2025 
The testing organisation TÜV SÜD has certified the IO-Link Safety specification V1.1.4, laying the foundation for the widespread industrial use of this technology-neutral safety system. Certification by an independent testing agency marks the end of the development phase for IO-Link Safety and allows the introduction of commercial products.
In a separate development, the IO-Link community has published a Security Deployment Guideline to help users to evaluate and implement security measures for IO-Link.
IO-Link Safety is the safety-related extension of the IO-Link industrial communications technology and designed to allow seamless integration into existing automation and safety structures.
Unlike standard IO-Link, IO-Link Safety relies on third-party certification. Manufacturers will have to have their products tested at a recognised test centre to ensure the highest quality and safety standards.
As the first officially designated IO-Link Safety test centre, TÜV SÜD has already started to test IO-Link Safety masters and devices. The first certified products are expected to be available soon.
The costs to develop functional safety are high. IO-Link Safety requires support for only a single, easily implementable communication standard. As IO-Link Safety devices can be used without modification in automation systems worldwide, the IO-Link community expects IO-Link Safety to establish itself rapidly, and for the market to grow quickly.
The main aim of the newly-published IO-Link Secure Deployment Guideline is to provide end-users with the knowledge and the tools to assess and implement security measures for using IO-Link. The free document provides detailed instructions and best practices for the use of secure IO-Link systems. By following the guide, users can ensure that their IO-Link systems are secure and resilient to potential threats.
A further guideline for designing and developing IO-Link products securely is nearing completion. The IO-Link Secure Design and Development Guideline is aimed at manufacturers that design and develop IO-Link products. It offers a guide to understanding and integrating security measures into IO-Link products, and is expected to serve as an essential reference to ensure safety in new products.
There are now more than 20,000 IO-Link-compatible products available and more than 500 manufacturers of products that support the technology. The open architecture integrates easily into all common PLC, DCS and IoT systems.
