H2: Market Trends for SIMATIC STEP 7 Software in 2026

By 2026, the market for SIMATIC STEP 7 software—Siemens’ flagship programmable logic controller (PLC) programming environment—is expected to evolve significantly in response to broader industrial automation, digitalization, and Industry 4.0 trends. While STEP 7 remains a foundational tool for configuring and programming Siemens automation systems, its role and market dynamics are being reshaped by technological advancements, competitive pressures, and shifting customer demands.

1. Integration with TIA Portal and Cloud-Based Solutions
   By 2026, SIMATIC STEP 7 (particularly in its modernized form within the TIA Portal framework) will increasingly function as part of a fully integrated digital engineering suite rather than a standalone tool. Siemens continues to push the Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal as a unified platform, reducing reliance on legacy versions of STEP 7. Market demand is leaning toward seamless integration with cloud platforms such as MindSphere (now part of Siemens Xcelerator), enabling remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data analytics. This shift is accelerating adoption of STEP 7 within connected, IoT-enabled environments.

2. Migration to Modern Alternatives and Deprecation of Legacy Systems
   The market is witnessing a gradual phase-out of classic STEP 7 (e.g., STEP 7 v5.x) in favor of SIMATIC S7-1500 controllers and TIA Portal-based engineering. By 2026, demand for legacy support will remain strong in sectors with long equipment lifecycles (e.g., utilities, process industries), but new projects will predominantly use modernized versions under TIA Portal. Siemens’ focus on innovation means fewer resources dedicated to older STEP 7 versions, influencing end-users to upgrade or adopt emulation and migration tools.

3. Increased Cybersecurity Demands
   As industrial systems become more interconnected, cybersecurity is a top concern. The 2026 market will prioritize secure configuration, secure download capabilities, and audit trails within STEP 7 environments. Siemens is expected to enhance built-in security features such as secure access, role-based permissions, and integration with industrial firewalls, aligning with standards like IEC 62443. This will influence procurement decisions, especially in critical infrastructure sectors.

4. Growth in Digital Twins and Simulation
   The use of digital twins in engineering and commissioning is on the rise. By 2026, STEP 7 workflows are increasingly paired with simulation tools (e.g., SIMIT, PLCSIM Advanced) to validate logic before deployment. This trend reduces downtime and accelerates time-to-market, making simulation-enabled STEP 7 environments more valuable in automotive, pharmaceutical, and discrete manufacturing sectors.

5. Skills Shortage and Training Demand
   Despite its maturity, there is a growing skills gap in PLC programming. The 2026 market will see increased demand for training programs, certifications, and low-code interfaces that make STEP 7 more accessible. Siemens and third-party providers are likely to expand e-learning platforms and virtual labs to meet this need, especially in emerging markets.

6. Competition and Open Ecosystems
   While STEP 7 maintains a strong position in Siemens-centric environments, open automation platforms (e.g., CODESYS, Ignition, or PLCopen-based tools) are gaining traction. By 2026, interoperability and support for open standards (such as OPC UA, MQTT) will be critical differentiators. Siemens will need to ensure STEP 7 remains competitive by supporting cross-platform communication and API-driven integrations.

7. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Focus
   With global emphasis on sustainability, industrial automation tools are being evaluated for their role in optimizing energy consumption. STEP 7 is increasingly used to program energy-efficient control logic, especially in smart factories. By 2026, features that enable energy monitoring and optimization within STEP 7 projects will become standard selling points.

Conclusion
The 2026 market for SIMATIC STEP 7 software reflects a transition from a traditional engineering tool to a component of a broader digital industrial ecosystem. While legacy usage persists, the future lies in integration, security, simulation, and alignment with Siemens’ digital transformation roadmap. Companies investing in STEP 7 will need to embrace modernization, upskilling, and connectivity to remain competitive in an evolving automation landscape.

Common Pitfalls When Sourcing SIMATIC STEP 7 Software (Quality and Intellectual Property Risks)

Sourcing SIMATIC STEP 7 software, Siemens’ engineering framework for programming SIMATIC S7 PLCs, involves significant risks if not managed carefully. Buyers often encounter pitfalls related to software quality and intellectual property (IP) infringement. Understanding these risks is essential to ensure operational reliability, legal compliance, and long-term support.

1. Acquisition of Counterfeit or Pirated Software

One of the most prevalent risks is purchasing counterfeit or illegally copied versions of STEP 7. These are often sold at suspiciously low prices through unauthorized third-party vendors, online marketplaces, or gray-market suppliers.

• Quality Risk: Counterfeit software may be incomplete, corrupted, or modified, leading to instability, crashes, or incorrect programming behavior.
• IP Risk: Using pirated software violates Siemens’ licensing agreements and copyright laws, exposing organizations to legal action, fines, and reputational damage.
• Mitigation: Always purchase directly from Siemens or authorized distributors. Verify licensing documentation and use Siemens’ official tools to validate software authenticity.

2. Invalid or Non-Transferable Licenses

STEP 7 licenses are tightly controlled and often tied to specific hardware (e.g., a USB dongle or product key). Sourcing from unofficial channels may result in acquiring licenses that are invalid, already activated, or non-transferable.

• Quality Risk: Invalid licenses may cease to function after updates or system changes, disrupting engineering workflows.
• IP Risk: Resale of OEM or volume licenses without proper authorization breaches Siemens’ End User License Agreement (EULA), constituting IP infringement.
• Mitigation: Confirm license transferability with Siemens prior to purchase and request proof of legitimate origin (e.g., original purchase invoice).

3. Outdated or Unsupported Software Versions

Unauthorized suppliers may offer obsolete versions of STEP 7 (e.g., STEP 7 V5.7 or earlier) that are no longer supported by Siemens.

• Quality Risk: Older versions lack security patches, compatibility with modern hardware, and technical support, increasing vulnerability to cyber threats and integration issues.
• IP Risk: Distributing unsupported versions may involve circumventing activation mechanisms, which violates IP protections.
• Mitigation: Verify the software version’s support status with Siemens and ensure access to official updates and patches.

4. Lack of Documentation and Support

Illegitimately sourced software often comes without proper documentation, activation keys, or access to Siemens technical support.

• Quality Risk: Without official documentation or support, troubleshooting and system maintenance become difficult, increasing downtime and engineering errors.
• IP Risk: Missing or falsified documentation may indicate software piracy or unauthorized distribution.
• Mitigation: Require complete licensing packages, including certificates of authenticity and proof of entitlement, before purchase.

5. Incompatibility with Modern Systems and Security Vulnerabilities

Counterfeit or modified STEP 7 versions may not integrate well with TIA Portal or modern Windows operating systems.

• Quality Risk: Unofficial software may introduce malware, backdoors, or compatibility bugs that compromise automation system integrity.
• IP Risk: Modified software versions often involve reverse engineering or decompilation, which directly infringes on Siemens’ IP rights.
• Mitigation: Use only software verified through Siemens’ official channels and perform security audits on installed systems.

Conclusion

Sourcing SIMATIC STEP 7 software through unauthorized or unverified channels exposes organizations to serious quality deficiencies and intellectual property violations. Ensuring procurement from Siemens or certified partners safeguards system reliability, legal compliance, and long-term operational continuity. Always prioritize authenticity, valid licensing, and vendor legitimacy to mitigate these critical risks.

Logistics & Compliance Guide for SIMATIC STEP 7 Software

This guide outlines the essential logistics and compliance considerations for the procurement, distribution, installation, and use of Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 software, ensuring adherence to legal, export, and licensing requirements.

Licensing and Authorization

All use of SIMATIC STEP 7 software must be covered by a valid license agreement with Siemens AG or an authorized distributor. Users must ensure proper license activation via the Siemens Automation License Manager (ALM) and maintain accurate records of license keys, types (e.g., single-user, network, floating), and expiration dates. Unauthorized copying, sharing, or use of unlicensed software is strictly prohibited and violates international copyright laws.

Export Control Compliance

SIMATIC STEP 7 software is subject to international export control regulations, including but not limited to the German Foreign Trade Ordinance (AWV), EU Dual-Use Regulation (EU) 2021/821, and the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The software may be classified under ECCN 5D002 due to its encryption and industrial control capabilities. Export, re-export, or transfer (including electronic transmission) to embargoed countries or restricted parties requires prior authorization from the relevant government authorities.

Restricted Destinations and End-Users

Shipment or remote access to SIMATIC STEP 7 software is prohibited to countries and entities subject to sanctions by the European Union, United Nations, United States, or other applicable jurisdictions (e.g., Iran, North Korea, Syria, Crimea region). Prior to distribution or remote support, verify end-user identities and locations using sanctioned party screening tools and ensure compliance with Siemens’ Global Sanctions Policy.

Software Distribution and Transfer

Physical media (e.g., DVDs, USB drives) containing STEP 7 software must be shipped using secure and trackable logistics channels. Digital downloads must occur through Siemens’ official platforms (e.g., Siemens Industry Online Support, Siemens Support Portal). Any transfer of software between departments, subsidiaries, or third parties must be documented and comply with the original license agreement terms.

Data Security and IT Compliance

During installation and operation, users must ensure data security in accordance with applicable data protection laws (e.g., GDPR). Avoid storing sensitive project data on unsecured devices or cloud platforms not approved by Siemens or local IT policies. Regularly update STEP 7 software with security patches provided by Siemens to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Recordkeeping and Audits

Maintain comprehensive records of software procurement, license usage, installation locations, and transfer history for a minimum of five years. Siemens reserves the right to conduct compliance audits; customers must cooperate fully and provide access to relevant documentation upon request.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Dispose of physical software media in accordance with local e-waste regulations. Ensure that system requirements for STEP 7 (e.g., operating systems, hardware) comply with regional safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.

Contact and Support

For compliance questions or license-related issues, contact Siemens Customer Support or your authorized Siemens representative. Report suspected violations of export controls or licensing terms immediately through Siemens’ compliance hotline or designated reporting channels.

Adherence to this guide ensures lawful and secure use of SIMATIC STEP 7 software, protects intellectual property, and supports global regulatory compliance.

Declaration: Companies listed are verified based on web presence, factory images, and manufacturing DNA matching. Scores are algorithmically calculated.