RSLogix 500 remains a cornerstone for programming the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix families. While modern systems have moved toward Studio 5000, thousands of facilities still rely on this legacy software for maintenance and minor upgrades. 1. Choosing the Right Version for Your Needs
Before you start your download, it is critical to identify which version of RSLogix 500 you actually need, as costs and hardware compatibility vary significantly.
RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Free): This is the ideal choice for students and hobbyists. It supports the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 series exclusively.
RSLogix Micro Starter/Developer (Paid): These intermediate versions support the full MicroLogix family (1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, and 1500) but do not support SLC 500 modular processors.
RSLogix 500 Standard/Professional (Paid): These high-end versions are required for any SLC 500 modular systems (e.g., 5/03, 5/04, 5/05). Professional licenses can cost upwards of $7,600. 2. How to Download RSLogix 500 Software
All official downloads are hosted on the Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC). For the Free Version (Starter Lite):
Rockwell often changes the search path, but these steps are currently the most reliable for finding the free "Starter Lite" version: RSLogix Micro Starter Lite: Download Instructions rslogix 500 download programming software
RSLogix 500 is a mature, stable, and highly reliable tool for maintaining Allen-Bradley legacy PLCs. While Rockwell has shifted focus to Studio 5000, the global industrial base of SLC and MicroLogix controllers ensures that RSLogix 500 skills remain valuable.
For download: Use only the Rockwell Automation Download Center or your local distributor. For hobbyist learning, use the free RSLogix Micro Starter or a simulator. Never download from keygen or torrent sites.
Document Revision: 1.0
Date: April 2026
Disclaimer: This paper is for informational purposes. Licensing terms are subject to change by Rockwell Automation.
RSLogix 500 is the industry-standard programming software for Rockwell Automation's legacy Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix controller families
. Whether you are a student looking for a free learning tool or a professional maintaining existing systems, getting the right version depends on your hardware and functional needs. Download Options: Free vs. Paid
Rockwell Automation offers three primary editions of RSLogix 500, ranging from free learning versions to advanced professional suites. RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Free) RSLogix 500 remains a cornerstone for programming the
: This is a 100% legal, free version designed for training and simple applications.
: Students or hobbyists using MicroLogix 1000 or 1100 controllers. Key Restriction
support online editing (modifying code while the PLC is running). Starter Edition (Paid)
: A entry-level paid version that supports more hardware but still lacks online editing. Price Range : Approximately Standard Edition (Paid) : The most popular version for professional maintenance. Price Range : Approximately –$1,800. Key Feature online editing capabilities, allowing you to modify logic in "RUN" mode. Professional Edition (Paid)
: A bundled package that includes advanced troubleshooting tools like RSLogix Emulate 500 (if not already acquired) and RSNetWorx. How to Download RSLogix 500 for Free
To get the free "Micro Starter Lite" version, you must navigate the Bottom Line – Should You Download It
Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC) RSLogix Micro Starter Lite: Download Instructions 10 Feb 2026 —
Used licenses (floppy disks or master disks) appear on eBay or industrial surplus sites. Risk warning: Rockwell does not transfer ownership easily, and activation using legacy methods (e.g., floppy-based EVRSI) is nearly impossible on modern Windows 10/11. Most used copies become bricks.
Best advice: Buy new or use the free MicroLogix edition.
RSLogix 500 is a 32‑bit Windows‑based ladder logic programming software developed by Rockwell Automation. It is specifically designed to program three major PLC families:
The software uses a familiar ladder logic editor, resembles the look and feel of RSLogix 5 (for PLC‑5) and RSLogix 5000 (for ControlLogix), and provides powerful debugging tools, data monitoring, and force functions.
Important note: RSLogix 500 is not the same as Studio 5000 (used for ControlLogix and CompactLogix). Do not confuse them.
Before the current free edition, Rockwell distributed RSLogix Micro Starter Lite for MicroLogix 1000/1100/1200/1400. This has now been consolidated into the “MicroLogix 1100/1400 Edition” of RSLogix 500. Both are legal, free, and safe.
There are two distinct pieces of software often confused with one another: