Operators use rugged SIMATIC Industrial Thin Clients on the plant floor. These units contain no moving parts (fans or hard drives), making them highly resistant to dust, vibration, and extreme temperatures. Business and Operational Benefits
Operators access these virtualized environments using or remote connections (RDP), ensuring that the user experience is identical to using a real computer while the actual processing happens in the data center. Core Architecture and Components
The Siemens Virtual Client is a software-based solution designed to emulate physical automation hardware, such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and other field devices, within a virtualized environment. It is a critical component of the portfolio, enabling a seamless workflow from simulation to production.
Yes—if you manage more than 5 engineering workstations or struggle with plant floor PC failures. Start small: virtualize one TIA Portal instance for a pilot group of three engineers. Measure the time saved on software updates and license transfers. The numbers will speak for themselves. siemens virtual client
The physical host server hosts guest operating systems pre-configured with Siemens automation components. For instance, a single host might execute multiple alongside an Engineering System (ES) VM. The End-User Terminal PCS7 Virtual environment - SiePortal - Siemens
In the world of industrial automation, change is the only constant. Engineering teams are under pressure to reduce downtime, secure legacy systems, and enable remote work—all without compromising performance.
More than just a software tool, the Virtual Client represents a paradigm shift in how industrial environments are designed, commissioned, and operated. It serves as a bridge between the Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) worlds, allowing engineers to validate complex automation systems before a single physical wire is pulled. Operators use rugged SIMATIC Industrial Thin Clients on
The adoption of virtual client technology provides significant competitive advantages:
For broader administrative, engineering, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) workflows, global setups utilize cloud frameworks. Rather than deploying local server racks, enterprise systems leverage cloud instances like Microsoft Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. This allows engineers to securely connect to resource-heavy instances—such as Siemens Teamcenter or TIA Portal—from any internet-connected computer worldwide while adhering to strict company compliance guidelines. Component Release and Compatibility Matrix How Siemens meets zero trust requirements with Windows 365
If you tell me more about your specific application, I can help you: Core Architecture and Components The Siemens Virtual Client
A digital twin of the production line is created using software like or SINUMERIK ONE Virtual Commissioning . The control logic is developed and tested against this virtual model before any physical machinery is built or installed, de-risking the project. Virtual commissioning is frequently used by machine builders to test new configurations and train personnel in a risk-free environment, reducing launch time.
Siemens IT provides its global workforce with "virtual digital workplaces"—computing environments not tied to a physical device that are accessible from anywhere. The legacy on-premises solution for this suffered from rigid scaling, logistical burdens of hardware provisioning, and compatibility issues with a zero-trust security strategy.
Virtualizing complex robotic assembly lines and manufacturing cells to test sequences before physical installation.