Allen-Bradley Ethernet Driver for TOP Server Main
OPC Server DriverManufacturing

Allen-Bradley Ethernet Driver for TOP Server

Native EtherNet/IP connectivity to Allen-Bradley PLCs including ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix, and SLC 500 series controllers.

5.0(3 reviews)

Available in Driver Suites

This driver is included in the following TOP Server driver suites:

1024 x 1024

1024 channels and 1024 devices per channel

4000 Bytes

Larger packets for faster transfer.

3840 Arrays

Bulk array access in one request.

256 Channels

Parallel communication at scale.

Product Overview

High-Performance Connectivity for Logix Family Controllers

The Rockwell Allen-Bradley ControlLogix Ethernet driver works in conjunction with TOP Server to provide data exchange between OPC UA, OPC DA, SuiteLink and DDE clients and Allen-Bradley Logix Family controllers via the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix Ethernet protocol and even legacy controllers via gateway support. 

Advanced features such as ControlLogix Gateway support and NET-ENI support allow the ControlLogix Ethernet driver to connect, not only to Logix controllers, but also to legacy PLC-5 and SLC Family controllers. The ControlLogix Ethernet driver is a multi-threaded high-performance driver for simultaneous communication with multiple PLCs using multiple channels.

This driver does not require a Rockwell Automation RSLinx license. 

ControlLogix Ethernet Supported Devices

  • ControlLogix (All Models)
  • CompactLogix (All Models)
  • GuardLogix (All Models via above 2 drivers)
  • SoftLogix (All Models)
  • FlexLogix (All Models)
  • MicroLogix (All Models)
  • PLC-5 Family
  • PLC-5/xxC Models
  • SLC 500 Family (Modular I/O)
  • SLC 500 Family (Fixed I/O)

For full details on models and networks supported, please consult the driver help file.

ControlLogix Ethernet Supported Protocols / Networks

Why Choose This Driver?

Proven benefits that help you deploy faster and operate more reliably

Firmware/Controller Compatibility

Compatible with most firmware revisions, refer to the latest supported firmware details for specifics. Open address range support ensures compatibility with all PLC 5, SLC 500, and MicroLogix controllers, including ENI and ControlLogix Gateway applications.

Advanced Tagging and Data Structures

ControlLogix native tag addressing is fully supported, along with user defined tags. Arrays are supported for all atomic data types, enabling flexible and scalable data modeling.

Data Type and File Support

Supports all file types, including output, input, integer, and more, as detailed in the driver help file. Data types such as float, long word, and BCD are supported depending on file type, along with numerous predefined types and locale specific multi byte strings.

Communication and Memory Handling

Optimized memory access is provided for all tags and data types, improving performance. Communication is handled through a standard Ethernet network interface card using TCP and IP protocols.

Tag Management and Structure Access

Automatic tag database generation is available for ControlLogix models, using L5K or L5X import files or direct device access. Full access to all predefined structure data types is included for comprehensive data visibility.

High Performance Data Access

High speed access is supported for all array types, including Boolean arrays. Arrays can be accessed in a single request with lengths up to 3840 elements, while reads and writes to atomic tags are optimized to send multiple tags per request.

Communication Architecture

Optimized communications allow each device to operate on a separate thread or channel when configured across separate channels, with support for up to 256 channels. The system also supports up to a maximum of 1024 programs and includes configurable protocol types for maximum performance.

Connectivity and Optimization

ControlLogix Gateway support is available over Ethernet or serial connections to downstream Allen Bradley devices. Additional performance enhancements include configurable string read optimization, which can bypass LEN property reads, and project change detection for both online and offline edits.

"This driver is my go-to for anything Rockwell. Pair it with advanced tags and you have a powerhouse of convenience and adaptability."

Alfredo Moreno

Program Engineering Manager, E Tech Group

Key Features & Benefits

Everything you need for reliable industrial connectivity

Channel and Device Capacity

Maximum Number: Channels, 1024. Devices per Channel, 1024. Note that practical channel and device limits will vary depending on your available system resources.

Automatic Tag Generation

Logix Automatic Tag Generation, available both online and offline, enables easy data discovery and integration. This applies whether working directly with a system or using L5K and L5X files.

Flexible Network Routing

Logix device routing is supported across multiple network types, including ControlNet, DH+, EtherNet IP, and other brokered network topologies.

Optimized Packet Performance

The system supports larger packet sizes for ControlLogix Controllers version 20 and higher. Packet sizes are configurable up to 4000 bytes, which improves overall performance.

Gateway Access Across Networks

ControlLogix Gateway access is supported via Data Highway Plus and ControlNet networks, allowing broader connectivity across legacy and modern systems.

EtherNet IP Device Integration

EtherNet IP Gateway provides access to EtherNet IP enabled MicroLogix, SLC, and PLC 5 devices through the ControlLogix Ethernet Communications module.

Customer Reviews

Customer ratings

5 out of 5

3 global ratings

5 star
75%
4 star
15%
3 star
7%
2 star
2%
1 star
1%
A. Moreno
The Go-To AB Suite

Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2026

Verified Purchase

This driver is my go to for anything Rockwell. Pair it with advanced tags and you have a powerhouse of convenience and adaptability.

Joseph Wills
Spectacular Service

Reviewed in the United States on March 25, 2026

Verified Purchase

I've used your software since 1998. Different company different time. Your service has always been spectacular.

B Jenning
Quick Fix

Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2023

Verified Purchase

Zach helped us fix the problem quickly. Win answered the call initially and it was great to talk to my old friend again. We were back up in minutes.

Get Started Now

The full TOP Server product runs in a 2-hour demo mode until licensed. After 2 hours, simply restart the TOP Server service to reset the demo timer. Start your free trial today or speak with a connectivity expert.

Connect with Us

1-888-665-3678 (US & Canada Toll-Free)+1-704-849-2773 (Global)License Activation