To make your ESP32 perform an action, you need to write the firmware. We will use a standard LED blink script. Open the .

The most popular environment for writing and compiling the code you will simulate.

offers an extremely beginner‑friendly environment with drag‑and‑drop components and block‑based coding, but its ESP32 support is limited compared to Wokwi.

To configure the ESP32 simulation, you'll need to:

Proteus is a solid choice for developers and educators who want to combine electronic design with embedded firmware simulation for ESP32 projects. It accelerates early validation and learning, though final testing—especially for Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth and timing-sensitive features—still requires real hardware. If you need an integrated schematic-to-PCB workflow with strong virtual debugging tools and are willing to invest in a commercial license, Proteus is worth considering.

Right-click on the component in Proteus, select Edit Properties , and find Program File . Browse and select the HEX file you just generated.

Bridging your compiled code with the schematic is the core of .

Simulating the ESP32 in Proteus is a fantastic way to prototype logic and test GPIO wiring before soldering a single wire. While it may not perfectly replicate Wi-Fi transmission, it saves hours of debugging time for basic control systems and sensor interfaces.