Abstract: A process control system includes a network with sub-networks and one or more network servers coupled to these sub-networks via a router. Network users can access this network via network user terminals. The sub-networks include automation servers with peripheral devices coupled thereto. The automation servers control and configure the peripheral devices and can be accessed by local users using local user terminals. The network user terminals can query automation servers for data about the peripheral devices over the network. The automation devices can be selected and identified by data relating to their geographical location.