Rithmic Platform Setup Guide
Complete step-by-step instructions for downloading, installing, and connecting to the Rithmic trading platform.
Overview
Rithmic is our official trading platform provider, offering professional-grade trading software with direct market access to major futures exchanges. This guide will walk you through the entire setup process from download to your first trade.
Note: Rithmic Trader Pro is available for Windows. Mac users can use the web version at rithmic.com/rtraderpro-web or run Windows via virtualization software.
System Requirements
Minimum Requirements
- Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
- Intel Core i3 processor or equivalent
- 4 GB RAM
- 500 MB free disk space
- Broadband internet connection (minimum 1 Mbps)
- Screen resolution: 1280x720 or higher
Recommended Requirements
- Windows 11 (64-bit)
- Intel Core i5 or better
- 8 GB RAM or more
- 1 GB free disk space
- Stable broadband connection (10+ Mbps)
- Dual monitor setup (1920x1080 each)
Step 1: Download Rithmic Trader Pro
Official Download
Download Rithmic Trader Pro from the official Rithmic website. The download link will be provided in your account welcome email, or you can access it through your account dashboard.
Download Location: Check your welcome email or visit the Rithmic website directly.
File Verification
After downloading, verify the file size matches the expected size (typically 100-200 MB). The installer file will have a name like RithmicTraderPro_Setup.exe.
Step 2: Installation
Run the Installer
- Locate the downloaded installer file
- Right-click and select "Run as Administrator" (recommended)
- If Windows shows a security warning, click "More info" then "Run anyway"
- Follow the installation wizard prompts
Installation Options
During installation, you'll be asked to choose:
- Installation Directory: Default location is recommended unless you have specific requirements
- Start Menu Shortcuts: Recommended to keep enabled for easy access
- Desktop Shortcut: Optional but convenient
Firewall Warning: Windows Firewall may ask for permission. Click "Allow access" to ensure proper connectivity.
Step 3: First Launch
Launch Rithmic Trader Pro
After installation, launch Rithmic Trader Pro from your desktop shortcut or Start menu. The application will open to the login screen.
Initial Setup
On first launch, you may see:
- License agreement - read and accept
- Update notifications - recommended to install latest updates
- Configuration wizard - can be skipped and configured later
Step 4: Login Configuration
You'll receive your Rithmic credentials via email after your account is provisioned. This typically takes 2-5 minutes after account creation.
Enter Your Credentials
On the login screen, enter:
- User ID: Your Rithmic User ID (format: ETF-XXXXXX)
- Password: The password provided in your welcome email
- Environment: Should be pre-configured, but verify it matches your account type
Security Tip: Never share your Rithmic credentials with anyone. These are unique to your account and provide direct access to your trading account.
Connection Settings
The platform should automatically connect to the correct servers. If you need to configure connection settings manually:
- Go to Settings → Connection
- Verify the server addresses match those provided in your welcome email
- Default ports should be configured automatically
Step 5: Verifying Your Connection
Connection Indicators
After logging in, check these indicators to confirm successful connection:
- Connection Status: Should show "Connected" in green
- Account Balance: Your account balance should be visible
- Market Data: Price feeds should be updating in real-time
- Account List: Your account ID should appear in the account list
Testing Market Data
To verify market data is working:
- Open a chart for a popular instrument (e.g., ES, NQ)
- Verify prices are updating in real-time
- Check that the bid/ask spread is visible
- Confirm order book depth is loading
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Login Failed
If you receive a "Login Failed" error:
- Double-check your User ID and password (case-sensitive)
- Verify your account has been fully provisioned (wait 2-5 minutes after account creation)
- Check that your account status is "active" in your dashboard
- Contact support if the issue persists
Connection Timeout
If the connection times out:
- Check your internet connection stability
- Verify firewall isn't blocking Rithmic ports
- Try disabling VPN if active
- Check Windows Firewall settings
- Restart the application
Market Data Not Loading
If market data isn't updating:
- Verify you're connected to the market data feed (check connection status)
- Ensure markets are open (futures markets have specific trading hours)
- Try subscribing to a different instrument
- Restart the application
Port Configuration
Rithmic uses specific TCP/IP ports. If you're behind a corporate firewall or restrictive network:
- Contact your network administrator to open required ports
- Common ports: 40014, 40019, 40024 (may vary by environment)
- Refer to Rithmic's firewall advisory for detailed port information
Platform Features Overview
Order Entry
Place market, limit, and stop orders directly from the platform with real-time execution.
Charts & Analysis
Built-in charting with multiple timeframes, indicators, and drawing tools.
Position Management
Monitor open positions, P&L, and account balance in real-time.
Risk Management
Automatic enforcement of account limits and risk parameters.