Software guide

How to install OpenPLC Editor for free (step by step)

A free, open source PLC editor for all three systems. Optional: use it if you want a desktop tool.

Last checked 18 Oct 2026.

What it is for

An open source editor for writing PLC programs in the IEC 61131-3 languages.

Time

About 15 minutes to download and install

Works on

Windows, macOS and Linux

Before you download

Open source under the GPL-3.0 licence, as the official repository shows. The repository lists macOS, Windows and Linux on x64 and ARM64. Version 4.3.2 was the latest release on its page on 18 Oct 2026.

Checked on the official site on 18 Oct 2026.

What you need

  • Windows, macOS or Linux (64-bit, x64 or ARM64)
  • Free disk space for the app (a few hundred megabytes is typical)
  • No account

Install it

  1. 1.Open the releases page of the OpenPLC Editor on github.com (Autonomy-Logic) and pick the latest release.

    You should see: A list of files for that release appears under Assets.

  2. 2.Download the Windows file and run it.

    You should see: The installer or app starts. Allow the Windows prompt if it asks.

  3. 3.Open OpenPLC Editor.

    You should see: The editor window opens with a start screen.

Check that it works

  1. 1.Create a new project and add a program in ladder or structured text.

    You should see: An empty program opens in the editor.

  2. 2.Add one contact and one coil, then use the editor's compile or check action.

    You should see: The editor reports no errors.

If something goes wrong

I am not sure which file to download.
Pick the one that names your operating system and chip: x64 for most Windows and Intel computers, ARM64 for Apple chips.
macOS says the app cannot be opened.
Open System Settings, Privacy and Security, and choose Open Anyway for this app.
Windows shows a security prompt.
Check that the file came from the official repository page, then allow it.
The compile action reports errors.
Read the first message. A missing coil or an unconnected rung is the usual cause.

If you cannot or do not want to install

LADX Mini runs ladder logic in your browser with nothing to install.

Open the browser guide

Uninstall

  • Windows: Settings, Apps, find OpenPLC Editor and choose Uninstall.
  • macOS: drag the app from Applications to the bin.
  • Linux: remove the package with your system's tool, or delete the folder you unpacked.

Which internships use it

The first 4 weeks of every internship are free. This is training, not employment, and there is no stipend. All software guides.