Ignition vs GE iFIX
Next-Generation SCADA vs Legacy Industrial Platform
GE Digital's iFIX and CIMPLICITY are established SCADA platforms with a strong presence in process industries, utilities, and manufacturing. While reliable, they carry legacy architectural limitations that modern platforms have overcome.
TL;DR
Ignition brings modern web architecture, unlimited licensing, and rapid development to replace GE iFIX/CIMPLICITY's Windows-dependent, per-node licensed legacy approach. Ignition is particularly compelling for organizations looking to modernize aging iFIX installations.
Feature Comparison
Architecture & Technology
| Feature | Ignition | GE iFIX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture Age | Modern Java-based, continuously updated | Legacy COM/DCOM architecture | Ignition |
| Web/Mobile Access | Native HTML5 web clients | WebSpace add-on (limited functionality) | Ignition |
| Cross-Platform | Windows, Linux, macOS, Docker | Windows only | Ignition |
Licensing & Cost
| Feature | Ignition | GE iFIX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensing Approach | Unlimited clients and tags included | Per-node, per-tag licensing | Ignition |
| Scalability Cost | Flat — add clients and tags at no cost | Linear — each node and tag tier adds cost | Ignition |
Development
| Feature | Ignition | GE iFIX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scripting | Python/Jython — modern, widely used | VBA — legacy, limited capabilities | Ignition |
| Database Access | Native SQL queries to any JDBC database | Primarily through Proficy Historian | Ignition |
| Free Training | 900+ free video courses (Inductive University) | Paid GE training courses | Ignition |
Pricing Comparison
Ignition Pricing
One-time server license starting at $3,290 with unlimited clients, tags, and connections. No per-node fees, no recurring costs.
GE iFIX Pricing
Per-node licensing with tag tiers. iFIX node licenses range from ~$3,000 to $15,000+ depending on tag count. CIMPLICITY Server licenses are higher. Proficy Historian and other GE products billed separately.
Who Is It For?
Ignition is best for
- Organizations modernizing legacy SCADA infrastructure
- Utilities and process industries seeking web-based SCADA
- Multi-site deployments needing centralized management
- Teams wanting modern development tools (Python, SQL)
- Cost reduction on SCADA licensing
GE iFIX is best for
- Existing large iFIX installations where migration is cost-prohibitive
- GE-centric manufacturing environments
- Projects deeply integrated with Proficy suite
- Organizations with extensive iFIX scripting expertise
Why Choose Ignition over GE iFIX
GE iFIX — Honest Assessment
GE iFIX Strengths
- Proven reliability in critical infrastructure
- Strong historian (Proficy Historian)
- Deep process industry expertise
- Large installed base in utilities sector
GE iFIX Limitations
- Aging Windows-only architecture
- No native web or mobile clients
- Per-node licensing limits scalability
- VBA scripting — legacy programming model
- Slower feature innovation cycle
- GE Digital's uncertain strategic direction in recent years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it time to replace our aging iFIX system?
If your iFIX system is running on older Windows versions, lacks web/mobile access, or faces escalating licensing costs with growth, migrating to Ignition provides a modern foundation for the next 10–20 years. OperaMetrix provides complete migration services with phased approaches to minimize risk.
Can Ignition connect to the same PLCs as iFIX?
Yes. Ignition supports all major industrial protocols including OPC-UA, OPC-DA, Modbus, EtherNet/IP, and dedicated drivers for Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and more. Any PLC connected to iFIX can be connected to Ignition.
Compare with Other Platforms
Ignition vs AVEVA
Modern SCADA vs Legacy Industrial Software
Read comparisonIgnition vs Siemens WinCC
Open Platform vs Siemens-Centric Ecosystem
Read comparisonIgnition vs Rockwell FactoryTalk
Flexible Open Platform vs Rockwell-Centric Suite
Read comparisonIgnition vs ICONICS Genesis64
Industrial-Grade SCADA vs Visualization-Focused Platform
Read comparisonReady to switch to Ignition?
Our certified team helps you evaluate, plan, and migrate to Ignition.