Revisit the posts readers found most valuable on the OptoBlog in 2025.

Ready for another look back at highlights from 2025? Here's a chance to review the OptoBlog posts that resonated most with our readers this past year.

New ways to use Ignition software, staying current on firmware updates, strengthening cybersecurity practices, and picking up practical tech tips along the way: these articles reflect the challenges and priorities that OptoBlog subscribers are focused on.

Whether you’re revisiting a favorite or discovering it for the first time, here are the top five OptoBlog posts of 2025 that informed and guided this community.

1 - New Ignition module for groov EPIC

Hear from Pat Smith—guest blogger from OptoPartner Avadine—as he unveils an Ignition module designed to help you remotely configure and integrate groov products with Inductive Automation's Ignition platform.

Catch up with this blog post that explains why the module was created and what problems it solves—and how you can get it for free on the Ignition Exchange!

2 - groov EPIC and RIO 4.0 firmware release

Firmware updates are always popular, and last year's groov EPIC and groov RIO 4.0 release was no exception. Behind the scenes, 4.0 installed a brand-new Linux kernel—the core of the operating system (OS) that runs every app and process on your groov device—quietly preparing your EPICs and RIOs for the next generation of high-impact features.

See Dan White's recap of all the updates included in this release. You'll want to upgrade if you haven't already!

3 - The pain and gain of cybersecurity

Are you struggling to get your systems on the network with your IT department? Do they have a lot of questions about your PLC? This post hit home for several readers.

In case you missed it, here are some insights on designing a cybersecure controls system that an IT department will know and trust.

4 - Commission 30 I/O points in under 8 minutes

You've just assembled your cabinet with a groov EPIC and I/O on the chassis. Ready to do a point-by-point check to make sure everything is wired and working correctly? Checking a mix of 30 channels really is quick and easy. Follow along.

5 - Remote access to groov devices using OpenVPN

This topic also made our Top 10 Videos of 2025 list.  In the video VPN configuration on groov devices using OpenVPN, you get a breakdown of the high-level configuration of VPNs and also a detailed walkthrough of the process.

But this top 5 blog post goes into more detail. Learn more about the pain of secure remote connectivity and the gains that setting up a VPN can bring.

Do you have a topic that you'd like to see covered in the OptoBlog in 2026? Drop us your suggestion in the comment section below. 

And thanks for being a part of the Opto community!