Key Takeaway
No, SIMATIC Step 7 (both Classic and TIA Portal versions) is not free.
It requires a paid license from Siemens.
Step 7 Basic (for S7-1200, basic HMI) offers an affordable option.
Step 7 Professional (for S7-1200, S7-1500, S7-300, S7-400) is more comprehensive and expensive.
Licenses are perpetual, but upgrades require additional costs.
A trial version of TIA Portal (including Step 7) is available free for 21 days, allowing evaluation.
LOGO! Soft Comfort for LOGO! PLCs is separately licensed.
Always ensure license activation to access full features like downloading to PLCs, program simulation, and diagnostics.
Unauthorized versions violate Siemens’ licensing terms and may cause system disruptions or legal risks.
Free Trial Availability and Duration
Let’s start with the good news. Yes, Siemens offers a free trial version of STEP 7. This trial version is available for both STEP 7 Basic and STEP 7 Professional, and it’s designed to give users a taste of the software’s capabilities without committing to a full license.
Typically, the trial lasts for 21 days. During this time, you get full access to all the features of the version you install. That means you can create projects, simulate PLCs, and even download programs to real hardware. This is perfect for learning, testing, or small project evaluations.
Hook: Think of it as a test drive before buying a car. You get behind the wheel, understand the interface, check out the features—and only pay if it fits your workflow.
But keep in mind: once the trial expires, the software goes into a restricted mode unless a license is activated. So while STEP 7 is temporarily free, it’s not permanently free.
STEP 7 Basic vs STEP 7 Professional
Here’s where many engineers get confused. There are two main flavors of STEP 7:
STEP 7 Basic: This is intended for basic applications, especially with Siemens’ S7-1200 PLCs. It includes basic programming blocks, HMI integration with WinCC Basic, and standard ladder and function block diagram languages.
STEP 7 Professional: This is the full suite. It supports advanced PLCs like the S7-1500, S7-300, and S7-400. It also includes advanced debugging, diagnostic tools, safety programming (with the right add-ons), and full WinCC integration.
Pro Tip: If you’re just starting and using S7-1200 for training or small setups, Basic is often enough. But if you’re working in a plant or industrial project, go with Professional.
STEP 7 Professional is naturally more expensive but gives you the complete toolkit for any industrial automation challenge.
Licensing Models: Node-Locked vs Floating
Another important point for engineers is how the licenses work. Siemens offers:
Node-Locked Licenses: These are tied to one specific PC. Once activated, the software can only be used on that device. Ideal for personal use or dedicated programming laptops.
Floating Licenses: These are much more flexible. Installed on a server or central machine, the license can be “borrowed” by other PCs on the network. This is popular in companies with multiple users or engineering teams.
Hook: If you’re a freelancer or individual user, node-locked is your go-to. But for teams? Floating saves money and avoids license clutter.
Siemens also offers license transfer tools, so if your laptop crashes or gets replaced, you’re not stuck.
Alternatives and Educational Versions
Now let’s talk about options for students and hobbyists. Siemens has created educational versions of STEP 7 under its TIA Portal Student License. These are often distributed through training institutions or universities.
These versions are either free or come at a significantly reduced cost. The functionality is mostly the same but may have some limits in terms of hardware communication or project size.
Also, Siemens provides access to LOGO! Soft Comfort and PLC SIM, which are simpler tools for learning logic without investing in actual hardware. Great for students and beginners.
✨ Hook: Want to practice PLC logic at home with no cost? Download the TIA Portal Student version or LOGO! Soft and start building your automation brainpower.
Cost Considerations for SMEs and Startups
If you’re a small business owner or startup working in automation, investing in licensed STEP 7 software might feel heavy. But consider this: STEP 7 is an industry standard. That means your investment opens doors to thousands of Siemens-powered factories, machines, and projects worldwide.
Prices vary. STEP 7 Basic can start around a few hundred dollars, while Professional can go above a thousand depending on version and support. But you’re not just buying a license—you’re buying access to the Siemens ecosystem.
Pro Insight: Budget tight? Start with Basic, complete a few projects, and upgrade only when needed. Many vendors also offer bundled pricing with hardware kits.
And don’t forget, Siemens often runs seasonal offers or gives special deals through authorized partners.
Conclusion
So, is SIMATIC STEP 7 free? No, not permanently. But Siemens makes it accessible to learners, engineers, and small companies through trial versions, student licenses, and modular pricing.
Whether you’re building your first ladder logic program or managing a plant-wide automation setup, STEP 7 offers the tools you need—at a price that aligns with your journey.
Final Tip: Use the trial, explore the features, and only commit when you’re confident. That’s how great automation journeys begin.