The XPress DR-IAP Device Server allows virtually any serial device to be connected to a new or existing Ethernet network. By encapsulating serial data and transporting it over Ethernet, the XPress DR-IAP allows virtual serial links to be established over Ethernet. By using this unit, limited-distance, point-to-point, direct serial connections can now be extended within the plant, throughout the facility, or across the global enterprise. When used in conjunction with an OPC server, most Windows based HMI, SCADA, and PC-based control applications have full access to information in the connected device. Existing COM-port based Windows applications can access network-enabled devices using Lantronix Com Port Redirector software. Redirector software allows the creation of virtual serial ports, which can be mapped to the remote device servers over Ethernet and connected to the XPress DR-IAP. The XPress DR-IAP installable communication drivers allow specific support for various industrial communication protocols. With native support for these protocols, devices that previously allowed only one connection can now support multiple connections simultaneously. Flexible configuration options allow the unit to be set up locally using the serial port, or remotely over Ethernet using Telnet or a common web browser. Included Windows based configuration software simplifies the process of installing communication drivers and configuring them for use with attached devices. Flash memory provides for maintenance-free, non-volatile storage, and allows future system upgrades.