Computer for Forex trading

To trade on the currency exchange with complete comfort, you need a personal computer with internet access.

Sometimes you can find simply unimaginable requirements for this equipment online, but in practice everything is much simpler.

For normal operation, a machine with minimal parameters that meet the requirements of a trader's trading terminal is quite sufficient. These parameters and some other aspects will be discussed in this article.

First of all, you should pay attention to the minimum system requirements of one of the most popular platforms, MetaTrader4. There's no need to buy an overly powerful machine; it's better to use the money you save for trading.

Minimum computer requirements for trading:

Processor – with a clock frequency of at least 2000 MHz, recommended 2500 MHz.

RAM – minimum 512 MB.

Space for the program – from 500 megabytes.

Operating system - Microsoft Windows 7/8/10

Based on the above requirements, it's clear that a Forex computer doesn't need to be very powerful; the software can even be installed on a tablet. However, it's important to note that these parameters are for the MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 trading terminals; some trading platforms are more resource-hungry and require more resources to function properly.

A Forex computer including a monitor will cost you no more than $300, though you can configure it for an even cheaper price. A used computer with these specifications will cost no more than $100, but it's still better to buy a new one, as the safety of your funds depends on the stability of your equipment.

To ensure uninterrupted operation of your equipment (computer and monitor), you'll need an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Don't skimp on it. In the event of a power outage, it will allow you to close open orders or set a stop-loss.

In a laptop, the battery plays the role of such a source, so this is where you can save money when buying a laptop.

A Forex computer alone won't allow you to open trades on the trading platform. An internet connection is also required. For full functionality, the connection speed must be at least 2 Mbps. This connection can even be established using a mobile phone, but it's better to use faster connections, such as cable, satellite, or modem internet with speeds of at least 10 Mbps. Only then will you be reliably protected from interruptions.

For those who don't want to buy a computer, trading directly in a web browser is possible, and you can do this from any internet cafe or at work. This is an alternative, but far from ideal, trading option; it's recommended only as a last resort.