ECU tuning refers to the process of adjusting the settings and parameters within the engine control unit to improve factors like horsepower, torque, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance.

WinOLS is an application, which is written especially to modify the memory contents of ECUs.

It facilitates the searching and finding of maps, which can then be named and viewed in different ways and changed. To change the data, different functions are available to edit the maps.

This software editor is for chiptuning companies the equivalent of Photoshop for a photographer or Final Cut Pro for a video Editor with MacOS. It is a must for editing files.

WinOLS1.0 was released in the year 2000 by EVC Electronic GmbH

WinOLS can be used with a standard PC, but you may need additional hardware like an ECU programmer or a diagnostic interface, depending on your specific tuning requirements.

WinOLS is a powerful tool but may have a learning curve for beginners. It's recommended to have some knowledge of ECU tuning and a basic understanding of engine parameters before using the software.

Our advice before buying WinOLS software is to have already tuned with your OBD hardware at least 50cars and one year with the help of a proffesional fileservice system (us or others from the B2B market).

After working these cars you might be ready for the next step, starting to edit your own files or just do attachments and learning on the already 50+ cars you have worked in the past year.

WinOLS offers features such as map editing, checksum correction, automatic map recognition, and import/export options.
It also supports various file formats used in the tuning industry.

While WinOLS is generally safe when used by knowledgeable users, incorrect modifications can potentially harm the ECU or engine. Always make backups and exercise caution when making changes.
Working with mappacks or damos does not guaranty the lack of mistakes. Never go blind into editing maps "just because you think is ok"

Risks include voiding warranties, affecting emissions compliance, and potential damage to the engine if not done correctly. It's crucial to understand the consequences and have proper knowledge before tuning.

Oficial EVC Training system is the start for knowledge https://www.evc.de/en/service/certified_training.asp
Of course there are also online forums for chiptuners, tutorials on YouTube, and user communities on facebook. All these are great resources for learning how to use WinOLS effectively. The software also comes with detailed documentation (user manual).

The legality of vehicle tuning varies by location and depends on local regulations. 

It's essential to comply with local laws and regulations when using WinOLS for tuning purposes.

EVC Electronic offer suport for corect functionality of the editor WinOLS by providing customer support and technical assistance. There is no support regarding the editing of the maps.  TCM TURBO as distributor of EVC WinOLS for over a decade and certified EVC WinOLS5 training offer support for usage (functionality of the program) but cannot offer editing support free of charge. 

WinOLS may require a one-time purchase or a subscription fee, depending on the version and licensing model.
Old version until WinOLS4.82 does not require anual fee subscription.
After WinOLS 5.00 all the customers require a  fee  (Feature-Updates as EVC has called this ). Program function are enough for a normal chiptuner to edit and complete a good stage1 starting from an original readout.
Only the new features marked as feature update that appear after the end of the year are not available without the purchase of the feature update subscription

You can find all WinOLS software prices here. WinOLS also comes with additional upgrades (plugins modules also described in the previous link or on EVC website at WinOLS section).