What Are the System Requirements for Running NinjaTrader 8.1?

Minimum System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows Server 2016 or Windows 8.1
• Processor (CPU): 1 cores, 2.5 GHz
• Memory (RAM): 2GB
• Storage: 1GB of free disk space for installation. Additional space required for historical market data.
• Network: 10 Mbps download / 5 Mbps upload (for basic order execution and a chart)
• GPU: No dedicated GPU needed; NT8 can operate with Microsoft WARP for software-based DirectX 10 rendering on the CPU.

Recommended System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows Server 2022 or Windows 10 Pro
• Processor (CPU): 4 cores, 3.5 GHz or higher
• Memory (RAM): 16GB or higher
• Storage: Over 50GB of free space for installation and to store historical market data, indicators, and strategies.
• Network: Over 100Mbps download / 50Mbps upload (for smooth trading with multiple charts, indicators, and live data feeds)
• GPU: A dedicated GPU is only needed for third-party indicators or tools that use GPU acceleration. NinjaTrader 8 itself does not require a GPU

CPU

TradingVPS uses AMD Ryzen 9 7950X dedicated cores clocked at 4.5 GHz+, delivering top-tier single- and multi-threaded performance—ideal for NT8. Its advanced architecture, high clock speeds, and superior IPC ensure exceptional real-world results for trading and analytical tasks.

RAM & Storage

TradingVPS offers DDR5 RAM for superior system responsiveness and an NVMe SSD with PCIe Gen 4.0, providing double the transfer speeds of previous generations for markedly faster read and write performance, ensuring optimal trading efficiency.

Network

TradingVPS provides a 1-2Gbps connection with bursts up to 5Gbps, guaranteeing fast and reliable data transfers during peak trading times. Latency to NT servers ranges from 0.5 to 1ms, minimizing slippage and optimizing trade execution. Additionally, robust network infrastructure and multiple redundant pathways ensure constant uptime and low jitter for consistent performance.

GPU

Having a GPU can enhance NT8 performance, but it comes at a high cost. However, NT8 can run smoothly using just the CPU because Windows defaults to the Microsoft Basic Render Driver (WARP) for software rendering, which supports DirectX 10 and 11. When no GPU is available, Windows automatically switches to WARP, a high-performance CPU-based renderer. TradingVPS, equipped with a powerful AMD Ryzen 9 7950X CPU, efficiently handles this software rendering—particularly for chart and UI rendering—ensuring seamless performance with WARP.

VPS Recommendations

In summary, for most NinjaTrader 8 users, our Standard VPS is the ideal choice. It effortlessly handles multiple charts, standard indicators, and automated strategies, featuring 4 Ryzen 7950X cores (4.5 GHz+), 16GB DDR5 RAM, 300GB NVMe SSD and 1Gbps of Network speed.

For those with more demanding setups, such as intensive backtesting or running multiple platforms, we recommend our Expert VPS. This option includes 8 Ryzen 7950X cores, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 500GB NVMe SSD and 2Gbps of Network speed for maximum performance.

Updated on: 12/08/2025