Trader Workstation (TWS) Configuration
OptionsRealTime connects to Interactive Brokers’ Trader Workstation (TWS) through the API. This requires enabling a few settings in TWS.
Open API Settings
Section titled “Open API Settings”- In TWS Desktop, go to File > Global Configuration
- Navigate to API > Settings
Configure API Settings
Section titled “Configure API Settings”Enable the following settings:
Required Settings
Section titled “Required Settings”| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Enable ActiveX and Socket Clients | Checked |
| Read-Only API | Checked |
| Socket Port | 7496 |
| Allow connections from localhost only | Checked |
Enable ActiveX and Socket Clients — Allows external applications to connect.
Read-Only API — Recommended for safety. OptionsRealTime only reads portfolio data and does not place or modify orders.
Socket Port — Use 7496 for TWS Desktop. If you are using IB Gateway, the default port is 4001.
Allow connections from localhost only — Restricts connections to your local machine.
Save Settings
Section titled “Save Settings”Click OK to save your settings.