Nitrogen-doped DLC (diamond-like carbon) coatings were produced on 316L nitrided austenitic steel in direct current and pulsed glow discharge conditions. The chemical composition, surface topography, hardness and corrosion resistance of the obtained carbon coatings were examined. The coatings varied in surface morphology, roughness and hardness. Direct current glow discharge made it possible to produce a coating characterized by lower hardness, greater thickness and higher nitrogen content. The coating featured improved corrosion resistance and adhesion compared to coatings produced in the pulsed process.