linuxcncLinuxCNC controls CNC machines. It can drive milling machines, lathes, 3d printers, laser cutters, plasma cutters, robot arms, hexapods, and more.

linuxcnc

LinuxCNC is a free and open source software controller for CNC machines and automated equipment. It provides precise motion control for a diverse range of machinery, from traditional manufacturing tools to modern fabrication devices, enabling both professional shops and hobbyists to automate their production workflows.

Key Features

• Multi-machine support: Controls milling machines, lathes, 3D printers, laser cutters, plasma cutters, robot arms, hexapods, and custom automation equipment
• International collaboration: 25+ year legacy project with global contributions and multi-language documentation support via Weblate
• Open source licensing: Released under GPL-2.0 and LGPL-3.0 for transparency and community-driven development

Use Cases

• Manufacturing shops: Precision machining with milling machines and lathes for production work
• Fabrication studios: Laser cutting and plasma cutting automation for rapid prototyping and custom designs
• Maker communities: 3D printing and robotics projects for education and experimentation
• Custom automation: Robot arm and hexapod control for specialized applications

Who Is It For

LinuxCNC is designed for machinists, engineers, manufacturers, and makers who need reliable, customizable software to control CNC equipment. It serves both experienced professionals requiring precision automation and enthusiasts learning automated machining at any skill level.