An embodiment electronic circuit includes an electronic switch comprising a load path, and a control circuit configured to drive the electronic switch. The control circuit is configured to operate in one of at least two operation modes. The at least two operation modes comprise a first operation mode and a second operation mode. The control circuit, in the second operation mode, is configured to perform a set of basic functions and, in the first operation mode, is configured to perform the set of basic functions and at least one additional function. The at least one additional function comprises generating a first protection signal based on a current-time-characteristic of a load current of the electronic switch and driving the electronic switch based on the first protection signal.