Later versions (V17+) required firmware updates that many OEMs could not perform remotely on installed machines.
Windows 10 Professional/Enterprise (Versions 1709, 1803, 1809) Windows Server 2012 R2 / 2016 Standard Recommended Hardware Specifications
When searching for the "best" download, you need to ensure you get the right components for your automation task. As of 2021, the best practice is to download the integrated installer, which includes:
The installation process for V15.1 is straightforward but requires patience.
In 2021, Siemens began promoting the TIA Portal Cloud. This provided rapid, browser-based access to various TIA Portal versions, including V15.1, allowing engineers to work without installing heavy software locally. Key Tips for Installation (2021)