Distributed real-time systems require predictable networks to exchange application data within bounded delays. Switched Ethernet is an attractive networking technology for distributed real-time systems. However, Ethernet devices require special coordination mechanisms to support real-time traffic because of their inherent competitive approach. Real-Time Ethernet (RTE) protocols aim at providing amendments to standard Ethernet to ensure latency guarantees and in-order delivery of real-time data, while keeping compatibility with Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) infrastructure tailored for high-bandwidth best-effort traffic.