B&R has published a new major release of its Aprol process control system. Version R 4.2 contains new software functions, including improved options for cloud connectivity with OPC UA and MQTT. According to the manufacturer, this version also offers additional SSL/TLS-secured communication options and, above all, new functions for optimizing the efficiency of processes and systems. These include asset performance monitoring, additional options for condition monitoring, a control performance monitor, a comprehensive business intelligence solution and optimized alarm management. B&R has also expanded 'Advanced Process Control': Among other things, a new PID tuning module based on the finite frequency method is now available. The new alternative design variant 'Dark Style' offers a modern and tidy graphical user interface for operator stations. A spider diagram is now available, with which the overall status of a process can be seen at a glance. Key process variables are displayed as patterns to make life easier for the plant operator. In addition, all redundancy options are now integrated as standard. This makes setting up high-availability systems attractive even for small applications. Operator and process bus as well as runtime server and controller can be implemented redundantly using standard components.