Using MT5 with a VPS: Is It Worth It for Funded Traders?

If you’ve been in the prop trading game for a while, you’ve probably heard the term VPS thrown around in Discord chats, Telegram groups, or even by your evaluator. And if you’re trading with MetaTrader 5 (MT5), you might be wondering, Do I really need a VPS or is this just another shiny object? It’s not just hype. But like most things in trading, it’s not a one-size-fits-all deal either. Let’s see in detail what a VPS actually is, why it matters, and whether using one with MT5 is worth it if you’re a funded trader.

What Even Is a VPS?

Virtual Private Server is what VPS stands for. This term may sound technical but it simply refers to a computer that is always on, located in a data center, and accessible from a distance. 

Imagine your trading platform operating continuously on a dependable, fast internet connection—no sporadic Windows upgrades, no dubious Wi-Fi outages, and no laptop overheating in the middle of a trade. This is what a VPS provides.

To put it simply, it’s similar to hiring a robot butler for your trading business. After logging in, everything is operational and you are ready to start. 

Why Funded Traders Are Even Considering a VPS

Prop firms operate quite differently from traditional retail trading. You have to deal with stringent regulations, drawdown caps, and occasionally extremely stringent slippage policies. Tiny technical glitches might become major issues in this high-stakes setting.

This is the point at which a VPS can truly help. 

Always-On Trading

Your platform must be operational around the clock if you use automated strategies or expert advisors (EAs). Even when you’re asleep or binge-watching Netflix, a VPS enables your bots to function.

Decreased Latency

Using a VPS in a neighboring area can speed up trade execution, depending on the location of your prop firm’s server. Particularly during high-volatility events, that one-second advantage can help you get better fills and less slippage. 

Remote Access

A VPS allows you complete access to your MT5 terminal from any device, whether you’re on the road, stranded at work, or simply not close to your primary setup. Remote desktop software and a strong internet connection are all you need.

Peace of Mind

You can stop worrying about program problems, power outages, and your cat scuffing your keyboard in the middle of a deal. Your MT5 is separated from your local pandemonium when it is hosted on a VPS. 

Is It Really Necessary?

Ask yourself:

• Are you running automated strategies or trading manually?
• Do you live somewhere with unstable internet or frequent power outages?
• Is your computer on and connected during all trading hours?
• Do you travel a lot or trade on the go?
• Are you experiencing slippage or delays when placing orders?

You might want to consider a VPS if you said “yes” to a few of these questions. If not, you may be able to get by without one for the time being.

Using MT5 without a VPS is completely possible for manual traders with a reliable home setup who are primarily active during certain hours. However, a VPS turns into more of a tool than a luxury the moment you start depending on automation or want that extra boost in execution speed. 

Setting Up MT5 on a VPS (Without Losing Your Mind)

Step 1: Choose a VPS Provider

There are tons out there—some geared specifically toward traders. Popular options include:

• ForexVPS
• Vultr
• Contabo
• Amazon Lightsail
• OVH

Even better if the prop company you’re working with has its own VPS solution (some do). Just make sure the specifications are respectable including SSD storage and at least 1 GB of RAM. Additionally, see if the data center is near the server of your business company. 

Step 2: Install MT5

Once your VPS is up, log in using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) from your PC or Mac. It’ll feel like you’re using a regular Windows computer—just on the cloud.

Then, download and install MT5 the same way you would on your home computer. Easy peasy.

Step 3: Load Your Account

Input your prop firm login details, set up your charts and best indicators for MT5 or EAs, and you’re good to go.

If you’re running EAs, make sure:

• “AutoTrading” is enabled
• You don’t close MT5 (yes, even on a VPS)
• You keep the VPS running 24/7

Step 4: Optimize and Monitor

Once you’re live, it’s smart to log in every now and then to check that everything’s still humming. You can also use tools like mobile MT5 or remote access apps (like VNC Viewer or RDP) to keep tabs on your setup while you’re out and about.