---
title: Installing Kepware and Drivers
slug: how-tos/TxEf-installing-kepware-and-drivers
createdAt: 2025-09-05T11:49:37.693Z
---

## Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure the following:

- You are working on a Windows machine that meets Kepware system requirements.
- You have access to the Kepware installer and a valid license or trial.
- You know which drivers you will need based on your PLC types (e.g., Siemens, Allen Bradley).

## Installing Kepware and Drivers

### Download and install Kepware

- Visit the [Kepware Store](https://www.ptc.com/en/store?filter=Kepware) if you want to purchase a full license.
- Alternatively, you can download the [trial version](https://www.ptc.com/en/products/kepware/kepserverex/demo-download), which allows up to two hours of runtime before requiring a restart.
- Run the executable and select **Typical** installation.
- Accept default options for features and installation path.
- You can skip setting up a user or password for now, but configure one before you connect Kepware to a production network.

### Install additional drivers

- After the initial installation, re-run the **same** Kepware installer binary.
- Choose **Modify** and select the extra drivers you need.
- For more information, consult Kepware’s driver installation guide: [PTC Driver Support](https://www.ptc.com/en/support/article/CS286418)

:::hint{type="warning"}
Make sure you re-run the installer using the exact same version as initially installed. Otherwise, the installer may fail silently or break existing configurations.
:::

### Add drivers to your project

- Open the Kepware Configuration tool from the system tray.
- Create a new **Channel** and assign the correct driver.
- Add a **Device** under the channel using the correct model for your PLC.

:::hint{type="info"}
Channels define communication settings, while devices represent actual PLCs.
:::