Do I need VPS for my EA?

Virtual Private Server (or VPS) is a virtual machine provided as a service. It has its operating system running and as a customer, you will receive super-user access that will allow you to install a trading software (like MetaTrader) on that virtual machine. It will ensure that your trading software is running without interruptions. From a forex trading perspective, VPS is a beneficial tool especially if you trade using Expert Advisors or if you have subscribed to the signal service. 

Depending on the nature of your forex robot, the speed of execution can of crucial importance. Scalping EAs and News based EAs are the ones those trading results are highly affected by the speed of execution. Generally, all forex robots that hold the trade for a short period, trade-in very volatile market conditions or execute many trades simultaneously would significantly improve the performance with a faster connection. EA running on VPS will always execute the trade faster than the one running on a personal computer. The speed of execution can be improved further if you use the VPS service provider whose servers are at the same location as your broker’s servers. 

VPS server is constantly monitored by service provider technical support, so your EA will be safe from viruses, intruders and other threats. They will take care of installing the necessary operating system and other utility software updates. Also, technical support can assist you if you have problems with installing and configuring your trading software or forex robot. 

If you live in an area where you do not have stable internet connection VPS is a must tool especially if you trade using automated trading systems. It also protects you against power outages and ensures that your trading software runs smoothly without disruptions. From time to time, you will need to restart your computer due to software upgrades and it may be improper to do so if you have an active trade running. Moreover, you can execute the trade while your computer is switched off. So, your VPS will ensure that your trading platform is always online. 

You can access VPS from multiple devices like tablets or mobile phones, so you can monitor your EA running anytime while you are away from your Home computer or laptop. If it is necessary you can also allow multiple different users (with different privileges) to access your VPS. So, it gives you more flexibility. 

The price of VPS service can vary, service is charged as a monthly subscription and depending on the quality of the servers it can cost from $10 per month to $100 per month. Many service providers will offer you a free trial period. Some brokers are offering free VPS service if you match certain deposit requirements. 

When you choose which VPS service is the right one for there are many characteristics that have to be considered. You have to check what operating system is running on the virtual machine to see if it is possible to install trading software that you plan to use. Also, check if the VPS provider allows you to install all the software that you intend to install. The service provider has to guarantee that the server will be uptime more than 99.99% of the time. 

You have to check what are hardware requirements for running your trading software, this is especially important if you intend to install multiple instances of trading software on the server. Check how much RAM is available and whether it will ensure that all your trading software will run smoothly. Moreover, the required degree of operation stability is ensured with Hyper-V technology for users that run forex VPS on Windows servers while OpenVZ will ensure the same stability on Linux servers. 

Server location is another important factor that you should consider, it is better, that it is at the same location as your broker’s server location. Check if there is any limitation regarding speed and traffic. Finally, check the price, take the cheapest that has all your required characteristics satisfied. 

Therefore, VPS is a must-have tool if you trade using Expert Advisors or if you have subscribed to signal service. It will improve the speed of execution, your trading software will be secure, easily accessible and you will be sure that it will run all the time. Finally, it will improve your trading results.