title: Writing Virtual RS232 Port Emulator that runs in user code
body: <p>Is there any way to write a virtual RS232 Port Emulator that doesn't have to be installed as a device driver?</p>
  
  <p>What I'd like to have is a program that emulates a physical hardware device.  It tells the OS that it is port COM1.  Other programs see COM1 and open it using code like the .NET <code>SerialPort</code> class.  Once the connection is established, the emulator begins emulating the device.</p>
  
  <p>I know there are virtual COM port drivers out there that can do this, but my boss does not want to use them.</p>
  
  <p>Can this be done?</p>