Abstract: A device is disclosed for automating machines, such as machine tools or production machines, whereby the device includes at least one local user terminal located proximate to a corresponding machine for operating that machine, at least one controller for controlling the corresponding machine connected with the local user terminal via a bus system, and at least one computer that is also connected to the bus system for unidirectional or bidirectional data transfer. The at least one computer includes operating software capable of controlling functions of the machine(s) and can be operated from the user terminal(s). The disclosed device optimizes the operation of a machine tool or production machine in an automation environment.