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Trading Computers and servers for NinjaTrader and AFT latency and reliability

Thomas Leeson
Updated

For the best trading Servers ATS uses & recommends >> Quant VPS Trading Servers

AFT Works on All Windows PCs and Servers

AFT works consistently across PCs and servers; the choice depends on your location and trading style.

  • A trader must decide what suits their location and trading style.
  • A local PC offers the best user interaction, with minimal mouse/keyboard latency, and is ideal for manual trading where responsiveness matters.
  • A server is best for automated, unattended usage, allowing remote access but with slightly reduced user interaction quality.
  • Machines located near the exchange provide the best latency, data-loading speeds, and trading responses.
  • For traders near the exchange, a local PC with a UPS for modem and hardware ensures low latency and reliability.

Latency, Ping, and Round Trip Time

  • Latency from 1ms to 300ms+ is workable, depending on the trading style.
  • Scalping requires low latency and good interaction -1 to 10ms
  • Algo scalpers benefit from servers near the exchange for the best latency.
  • Algo swing traders can operate effectively in central North America regions.
  • Closer proximity to the exchange is optimal for faster data loading.

Cost vs. Need

  • Start with a home/office setup to evaluate its performance.
    • Use NinjaTrader Mobile, Rithmic Mobile, or Tradovate to monitor and control trades remotely.
  • Home office setups can allow remote access through various solutions:
    • Install a UPS for surge protection on your modem/router.
    • Ensure your workstation has UPS backup for 15+ minutes to power down safely.
  • Only invest in a server if necessary to avoid unnecessary costs.
  • Begin with a medium-tier server option and upgrade as required. VPS/Server costs typically range from $80 to $250 per month for retail traders, no need to go above usually.

Machine Specifications

PC/server performance impacts NinjaTrader and AFT’s efficiency. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Processor: Intel Core i7 or better, AMD Ryzen 7 or 9
  • RAM: 16GB or more
  • Storage: NVMe SSD (Samsung EVO recommended)
  • Graphics: Dual or triple monitor video card
  • Motherboard: ASUS preferred

Data Storage: SSD Drive

Configure an NVMe SSD as your data drive:

  • Path example: D:\Users\Trader\Documents
  • Install NinjaTrader in: D:\Users\Trader\Documents\NinjaTrader 8

Server vs. Local PC: Which Solution?

  1. Server: Ideal for remote access and best latency.
    • Contabo: Affordable for experiments or non-critical latency needs.
      • (Requires technical skills to set up and maintain.)
    • QuantVPS: Latest VPS technology, excellent latency, and superior network quality.
      • Best architecture, network, and OS choices
      • Very good support and attentive team
    • NinjaMobile: Established service with good latency and support.
      • Servers or VPS
      • Dedicated Servers are really good!
  2. Home/Office: Suitable for most traders with proper specs and setup.
    • Ensure a fast, reliable internet connection.
    • Invest in a high-spec PC as detailed above.
    • Use UPS for both PC and router to ensure reliability.

Trading Servers/ Trading VPS

A Trading VPS is a Virtual Private Server optimized for financial trading on platforms such as NinjaTrader, MT4, and IBKR. It provides a stable, secure, and fast environment for running trading platforms 24/7, ensuring constant connectivity and low latency for automated strategies.

VPS solutions like QuantVPS and NinjaMobile offer high-performance, low-latency connections, strategically located near major financial data centers.

  • TIP: Servers require technical expertise to achieve optimal performance.
  • Contabo: Great for self-administered setups with affordable pricing.
  • NinjaMobile: Great latency, easy setup, and top-tier support for traders.
  • QuantVPS: Advanced VPS technology with the best networking, minimal network hops to trading data endpoints, best reliable latency server architecture and operating systems.

Conclusion

  1. Contabo is ideal for experiments and less critical applications.
  2. For a robust connection and support, choose NinjaMobile.
  3. For cutting-edge technology and the best quality, consider QuantVPS.

We use NinjaMobile for dedicated servers, QuantVPS for high-performance VPS needs, and Contabo for testing and non-critical applications.

 

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