Why Choose com0com for Your Virtual Serial Needs?
com0com is more than just a driver; it is a kernel-mode solution designed for high-performance serial communication and hardware emulation.
Unlimited Port Pairs
Create an unlimited number of virtual COM port pairs. Each pair acts as a transparent bridge, allowing data sent to one port to be instantly received by the other, mimicking a physical null-modem cable.
Kernel-Mode Stability
Unlike user-mode wrappers, com0com runs as a kernel-mode virtual serial port driver. This ensures maximum data integrity, low latency, and full compatibility with legacy Windows and DOS applications.
Advanced Emulation
Supports Baud Rate Emulation, 7/8-bit data, and parity control. You can also simulate line noise or buffer overruns to test the robustness of your serial communication software under extreme conditions.
Network Extension
Compatible with com2tcp and hub4com. Easily redirect local COM port data to remote TCP/IP servers or share a single serial device among multiple applications simultaneously.
Flexible Naming
Fully customizable port naming. Change default names like CNCA0 to standard COM3, COM4, or COM10 to ensure compatibility with third-party software that only recognizes standard port identifiers.
GPL Open Source
Freely available under the GNU General Public License. No hidden fees, no trial periods, and no limitations. Ideal for developers, students, and engineers looking for a professional-grade tool.
Versatile Solutions for Engineers & Developers
From amateur radio to industrial automation, com0com provides the virtual infrastructure needed to bridge the gap between software and hardware emulation.
“The most reliable way to test serial protocols without having to carry physical USB-to-RS232 adapters everywhere.”
— Embedded Systems Lead
Amateur Radio (HAM) & SDR
Connect rig control software to virtual TNCs or hardware emulators. Essential for digital modes and satellite tracking systems.
Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing
Simulate GPS sensors, PLC controllers, or CNC machines by piping data from an emulator program directly into your production software.
Software Development & Debugging
Test your COM port communication code (C#, Python, C++) by using one end of the pair as a data source and the other for your app.
Legacy Modem Emulation
Connect Windows Fax or old terminal applications to IP-based modems like t38modem via a virtual serial bridge.
Quick Setup & Configuration
Setting up your virtual serial bridge is straightforward. Follow these steps to get your COM ports running in minutes.
Install the Signed Driver
Run the installer. Our 2026 signed build bypasses the “Windows requires a digitally signed driver” error automatically.
Create a Port Pair
Open SetupG (GUI) and click “Add Pair”. By default, it creates CNCA0 and CNCB0.
Rename to Standard COM
Check the “Virtual Port ID” box to rename your ports to COM10, COM11, etc., for maximum software compatibility.
Ready to start your first connection?
Download our pre-configured, digitally signed installer for a hassle-free experience.
Get Started NowFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the com0com virtual serial port driver.
Q: Does com0com work on Windows 11 and Windows 10 (64-bit)?
Yes. While the original builds often struggle with driver signature enforcement, our 2026 distribution includes verified digital signatures. This allows com0com to load correctly on Windows 11 and 10 x64 without needing to enable “Test Mode” or disable “Secure Boot.”
Q: Why are the ports named CNCA0 and CNCB0 by default?
These are the internal names used by the driver. However, you can easily change them to standard names like COM3 or COM10 using the SetupG GUI tool. Simply check the “Virtual Port ID” option or use the change command in the setup prompt.
Q: Is com0com really free to use for commercial projects?
Absolutely. com0com is licensed under the GPL (GNU General Public License). This means it is free for both personal and commercial use. You are also welcome to view, modify, and distribute the source code.
Q: How do I fix the “Digital Signature” error (Code 52)?
This error occurs when Windows blocks an unsigned driver. To fix this, you should uninstall the old version and download our Signed Build. If you must use an unsigned version, you will need to run bcdedit -set TESTSIGNING ON in an Admin Command Prompt and reboot.
Q: Can I use com0com to share one GPS device with multiple apps?
While com0com creates pairs, you can combine it with hub4com (included in our advanced package) to split one physical serial signal into multiple virtual ports, allowing several applications to read the same data stream simultaneously.
Still have questions? Visit the Community Forum
Technical Performance & Compatibility
How does com0com stack up against traditional hardware and commercial virtual serial solutions? Explore the raw technical capabilities of our kernel-mode driver.
| Feature / Performance | com0com (Signed) | Physical Null-Modem | User-Mode Emulators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Data Throughput | Unlimited (Kernel Speed) | Max 115,200 bps | Variable (Moderate) |
| Latency (RTD) | Near-Zero (<1ms) | Hardware Dependent | High (Context Switching) |
| Baud Rate Emulation | Yes (Software Configurable) | Fixed by Hardware | Basic Only |
| Secure Boot Compatible | Yes (Signed Build Only) | Native Support | Often Blocked |
| Licensing Cost | $0 (GPL Free) | Cable Hardware Cost | $99 – $250+ USD |
Supported Platforms
- Windows 11 (Home, Pro, Enterprise)
- Windows 10, 8.1, 7 (x86/x64)
- Windows Server 2016 – 2022
- ReactOS Compatibility
Protocol Support
- RFC 2217 (with hub4com)
- Full Modem Signal Support (CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, DCD, RI)
- Break Signal Handling
- Custom Pin Wiring Emulation
Advanced Features
- Noise Simulation (Data Corruption Test)
- Buffer Overrun Emulation
- Exclusive Mode (Hidden Ports)
- Multi-Port Hubbing (N-way Splitter)
Troubleshooting & Error Fixes
Encountering an issue during installation? Here are the most common com0com errors and how to resolve them quickly.
Digital Signature Error
Windows cannot verify the digital signature for this device. This usually happens with the original 3.0.0.0 unsigned build on 64-bit systems.
Solution:
- Download our 2026 Signed Build from the download page.
- Or, enable Test Mode:
bcdedit /set testsigning onand reboot.
Software Freezing/Hanging
Your application hangs when sending data because the receiving buffer is full and overrun is disabled by default.
Solution:
Enable overrun emulation for the receiving port via Setup Command Prompt:
change CNCB0 EmuOverrun=yes
Port Not Recognized
Third-party software does not see CNCA0 as a valid COM port. Many legacy apps only scan for “COMx” names.
Solution:
In SetupG, rename the port to a standard COM identifier (e.g., COM12) and ensure the “Virtual Port ID” checkbox is ticked.
Pro Tip: Clean Uninstallation
If you are upgrading from an older version of com0com, it is highly recommended to perform a clean uninstall first. Use the setupc.exe uninstall command or the Windows Control Panel. If a ghost port remains, you can manually remove it from the Device Manager under the “Multi-port serial adapters” or “Ports (COM & LPT)” section by selecting “Show hidden devices”.
Beyond Virtual Pairs: The com0com Ecosystem
Extend your serial communication capabilities across networks and multiple applications using these powerful companion utilities.
SEO Pro Tip: If you’re building a Serial-over-Ethernet solution, com0com provides the virtual interface, while hub4com handles the network logic. Together, they form a robust, open-source alternative to expensive commercial serial redirectors.
Seamless Integration for Developers
com0com ports behave exactly like physical hardware, making them compatible with every major programming language and serial library.
pyserial.
SerialPort class.
CreateFile API.
*Requires com0com virtual ports to be renamed to standard COM identifiers.
Tested & Compatible Software
What Users are Saying
Join over 50,000+ developers, radio operators, and automation engineers who rely on com0com for their daily workflows.
“Finally, a version that works on Windows 11 without that annoying ‘Test Mode’ watermark. I use it to bridge my SDR software and CAT control for amateur radio. It’s flawless and zero latency.”
“We needed a reliable way to simulate Modbus RTU communication between our SCADA and a virtual PLC. com0com is the only open-source tool that handled the kernel-level timing accurately.”
“The signed driver on this site saved me hours of frustration. As a Python developer, being able to quickly create virtual pairs for unit testing serial protocols is a game changer. Highly recommend!”
Built on Trust and Transparency
As a critical kernel-mode component, we understand that security is your top priority. Our distribution of com0com is focused on integrity, compliance, and modern safety standards.
Verified Digital Signature
Ensures compatibility with Windows 11 Secure Boot and Kernel DMA Protection.
