The members of the IO-Link Consortium see the overall system as a basic Industry 4.0 enabler. The participating companies now have considerable weight, and the number of application scenarios is increasing as rapidly as the number of IO-Link equipped components and machines. Supporters include major players like Fraunhofer IMS , Siemens , Rexroth-Bosch and Festo . IO-Link components are provided, among others, by Pepperl+Fuchs , Murrelektronik , WAGO , ifm electronic , Balluf , SMC Deutschland , Creativ Chips , microsonic , Haydac International , MTS Sensor Technologie , and Sick . The sensor specialist stresses that IO-Link not only opens up a reliable communication channel but can also be integrated into any existing network .

As a communication system for industrial applications, IO-Link enables simple parametrization and delivers in real time both process data and extended diagnosis data concerning existing connections, all in digital technology; no analogue transmission of measurement values is done. Cost savings with regard to the cabling, thanks for example to the use of unshielded cables, are one of the advantages of IO-Link. Lower maintenance costs due to remote maintenance and faster exchange of components, as well as process-reliable conversion, are cited as further benefits of the system.