Prepare Your Trading Machine for G-BOT Algorithmic

Follow these essential steps to ensure smooth trading operations.
Think of this process as learning to fly a plane: it requires careful preparation and dedication. Subscription Details

Prerequisites, Installation, Paper Trading Account

STEP 1: Setup Your Trading Environment

  • Prepare a clean machine running Windows (local PC, VPS, or VM).
    The machine should be dedicated exclusively to trading and run 24/7. Maintenance will occur only during weekends or when the market is closed.
    Avoid storing personal data or installing unnecessary applications to minimize the risk of disruptions or reboots. A reliable antivirus will suffice.
    For enhanced security, consider using a VPN and firewalls, particularly if you are accessing the system remotely via a VPS. This ensures additional protection for your sensitive trading data.
  • Select a Portfolio Margin Account and ensure your paper trading account is free of any positions and has been reset to a realistic balance.
    (Note: The available funds in your account will directly influence key aspects of trading, including instrument selection, leverage, margin usage, and folio management. For example, trading with $1M is different from trading with $10M or $100M.)
  • Confirm that the instruments you plan to trade are subscribed to the necessary data feeds.
    Subscription Details
    We primarily utilize CME and possibly NYMEX for larger accounts. Ensure you are receiving real-time data from these markets via the "US futures bundle". "Top of book" data is typically sufficient—there’s no need to subscribe to additional data levels.
  • Ensure you can receive live market data in your paper trading account (set this in your account management settings). Your paper trading account shares market data subscriptions from a real account.
    For detailed guidance, consult IBKR's article on "Market Data Considerations for Paper Trading" to avoid interruptions caused by "competing live sessions".

STEP 2: Install IB Gateway

If you haven’t already, download and install the IB Gateway software from the official website: Interactive Brokers IB Gateway

The IBKR Gateway connects G-BOT to your trading account via a user-defined port (default is 4002), allowing it to receive tick data, send orders, and handle fills.

Launch the IB Gateway for your paper trading account, and select the following settings:

  • IB API
  • SSL
  • English
IB Gateway Login

In the IBKR Gateway settings, do the following:

  • Enable "Auto Restart" under the Lock and Exit section (ensure the restart time aligns with the market's daily maintenance period, e.g., 05:45 PM ET).
  • Uncheck "Read-Only" API.
  • Set the port to 4002 (if not already configured).

If you experience issues with real-time tick data, consult: IBKR Info or check the TWS API Group.

STEP 3: Enable Remote Access

Set up Windows Remote Desktop (WRD) or another remote desktop tool of your choice.

Once configured, send your login credentials, and I will assist in setting up G-BOT, providing ongoing guidance until you master essential features and are comfortable trading independently.

Your trading machine must operate 24/7 without disconnections (except when the market is closed). Disconnections will cause the algorithmic protection to be lost, which may result in liquidation by the broker.

I will continuously monitor your G-BOT instance, alert you to issues, and install updates as necessary. This service is available around the clock, with only maintenance disconnections on Saturdays.

Your system should be configured to allow the uninstalling of older versions and the installation of updates when necessary.

Equipment

Ensure a reliable Internet connection. The VPS or PC hosting G-BOT should be dedicated exclusively to trading to avoid interference from other activities.

Ensure your system has at least 16GB of RAM for optimal performance, as G-BOT stores historical data for multiple instruments.

Use reliable SSDs with at least 1TB+ storage, and disable Windows updates and energy-saving features. Maintenance can be performed on weekends before 5:00 PM ET.

Consider Immediate Paper Trading

Instead of waiting for an ideal setup, begin with paper trading even on a modest system while considering upgrades:

Useful Links:

Too Busy to Supervise Your Folio and Do the Rollovers?

If you meet the following criteria:

We offer a free trading machine for your exclusive use (1TB SSD, 16GB RAM). You can connect remotely with full control. This is a complimentary service for our investors.