> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.codeandcompile.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.codeandcompile.com/product-reviews/smart-platforms/virtual-plcs.md).

# Virtual PLCs

Virtual PLCs (vPLCs) are software-based controllers that run your automation logic on general-purpose hardware. Linux IPCs, edge devices like Revolution Pi, even containers — instead of a dedicated PLC CPU. The result: no controller hardware to buy, faster deployment, central fleet management, and modern IT-style workflows (CI/CD, remote monitoring) applied to PLC programming.

I have tested the following vPLC platforms hands-on. Here is a brief summary of my work with each, so you can jump straight to the one that matches your use case.

### ⚡ Autonomy Edge: OpenPLC redefined

Autonomy takes the open-source **OpenPLC** runtime and adds **cloud orchestration**, letting you build, test, and deploy automation logic without ever buying a PLC CPU. My work with this platform covers:

* A complete **OpenPLC walkthrough** — setting up cloud orchestration and deploying your first virtual PLC
* **Interfacing with an IO-Link master** over MODBUS TCP/IP for real-time vibration monitoring and signaling on real hardware
* Using **Python Function Blocks** in the OpenPLC Editor and streaming live PLC data to a ThingsBoard cloud dashboard

Learn more: [Autonomy Edge- OpenPLC redefined](/product-reviews/smart-platforms/virtual-plcs/autonomy-edge-openplc-redefined.md)

### 🖥️ OTee — Open Architecture Real-time Virtual PLCs

**OTee.io** is a free platform for creating and deploying virtual PLCs on Linux-based edge devices. I deployed a fully functional vPLC on a **Revolution Pi** in a step-by-step live demo, covering:

* **IEC 61131-3 Structured Text** programming with tags, variables, and alarms in OTee's cloud editor
* **Modbus TCP communication** to field I/O, with remote tag browsing and live troubleshooting
* Platform features like **role-based access control, fleet management, and CI/CD pipelines** from a centralized secure cloud

Learn more: [OTee- Open Architecture Real time Virtual PLCs](/product-reviews/smart-platforms/virtual-plcs/otee-open-architecture-real-time-virtual-plcs.md)

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