Schneider Electric has announced the launch of EcoStruxure™ Foxboro Software Defined Automation (SDA), describing it as the industry’s first open, software-defined distributed control system (DCS).
The new platform combines the established reliability of Foxboro systems with the flexibility of software-defined automation, aimed at helping hybrid and process industry customers modernise operations more quickly and with lower risk.
For decades, Foxboro DCS has functioned as the core control system for complex industrial operations, enabling real-time coordination of processes. However, Schneider Electric said evolving industrial requirements now demand greater agility, simplified compliance and fewer costly system upgrades. EcoStruxure Foxboro SDA has been developed to address these needs by delivering enhanced scalability, flexibility and cost efficiency while maintaining high levels of reliability.
The importance of open industrial systems was underscored in Schneider Electric’s recent global research report with Omdia, which found that closed systems cost mid-sized industrial companies an estimated 7.5% of annual revenue due to downtime, inefficiencies and compliance-related retrofits.
Hany Fouda, Senior Vice President, Process Automation at Schneider Electric, said the launch represents a pivotal moment for the sector. “EcoStruxure™ Foxboro SDA marks a defining moment for industrial automation. By embracing openness and software-defined architecture, we’re giving our customers the agility to modernise without compromise, protecting their investments while unlocking future-ready capabilities. This evolution is a strategic enabler for digital transformation.”
Developed in response to customer challenges such as ageing systems and rising costs, Foxboro SDA decouples hardware from software, enabling organisations to retain existing infrastructure while adopting a smoother, lower-risk modernisation pathway. Schneider Electric said this approach simplifies workflows, accelerates access to operational insights and supports long-term performance improvements.
Powered by EcoStruxure Automation Expert, the system is designed to enable interoperability, rapid deployment and fit-for-purpose configurations while maintaining high availability. By separating control logic from hardware, it supports vendor independence and scalable architectures. Built in line with IEC 62443-3-3 cybersecurity standards, the platform is designed to support IT and OT convergence, artificial intelligence and machine learning integration, and the transition towards more autonomous Industry 4.0 operations.
The system also enables digital continuity across the plant lifecycle, from design and engineering through to production and maintenance. By keeping data consistent and connected, Foxboro SDA supports automated workflows, improved product quality and integration with advanced analytics tools to enable real-time business decision-making.
Craig Resnick, Vice President at ARC Advisory Group, said the launch represents a significant shift in process automation. “By decoupling control logic from hardware, Schneider Electric is providing manufacturers with the agility to scale, adapt and simplify their operations. This software-defined approach helps reduce maintenance costs, protect legacy automation investments and ensure digital continuity throughout the entire plant lifecycle,” he said.
“With cybersecurity built into its core and a commitment to open, interoperable standards, Foxboro SDA enables manufacturers to modernise at their own pace, accelerate IT and OT convergence and expand adoption of next-generation technologies such as AI, edge computing and autonomous operations.”
Schneider Electric said the platform provides customers with a future-ready upgrade path, embedded cybersecurity and simplified operations, positioning Foxboro SDA not just as a control system, but as a strategic foundation for long-term digital transformation.
Schneider Electric unveils software-defined Foxboro DCS
