This website already describes OptionsApp 2.0, release on 08.10.2026. Until then, the download offers version 1.10. Stocks, ETFs and some new features are only available from the release onwards.
OptionsApp

Running OptionsApp and TWS on an External Server

Updated: October 13, 20253 min read

1. Overview

OptionsApp and Trader Workstation (TWS) can be operated completely independently on a dedicated Windows server. This setup ensures that both applications run stably, continuously, and with high availability, independent of your local PC. Access to the server is conveniently provided via Remote Desktop Connection (RDP), regardless of whether you're connecting from a Windows, macOS, or Linux system.

2. Benefits of server operation

Operating OptionsApp on a Windows server offers numerous advantages compared to a local installation:

  • Independent continuous operation: Servers run 24/7, independent of your own computer.
  • Fault tolerance: No dependency on power or internet connectivity in your own household.
  • Stable internet connection: Data centers offer redundant fiber-optic connections with very high reliability.
  • Increased availability: Permanent accessibility.
  • Optimized environment: Only relevant software packages (OptionsApp & TWS) installed. No interfering programs or performance loss.
  • Access from anywhere: Remote access via RDP from Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Automated restarts: Ideal to combine with the TWS Auto-Restart function described in the documentation.
  • Centralized data backup: Easy backup of sessions and log files.
  • Fast support: Issues can be directly traced by the support team when accessing the server.
  • Long-term stability: No local Windows or hardware updates that disrupt operation.

3. Recommended server provider: Strato

The preferred provider for OptionsApp users is Strato. Windows servers have been reliably used there for years, on which both OptionsApp and TWS run smoothly.

3.1 Prerequisites

  • A Strato user account (can be created at https://www.strato.de)
  • A Windows server package (e.g. V-Server Windows or Dedicated Windows Server)
  • At least 4 GB RAM and 2 vCores recommended
  • Windows Server 2022 as operating system! Under Windows Server 2025, the OptionsApp installer cannot be executed and installation must be done via the zip file.

3.2 Setup steps

  1. Create account: Create a customer account on strato.de.
  2. Order server: Select a V-Server or Dedicated Server with Windows license.
  3. Receive access credentials: After ordering, RDP access credentials (IP, username, password) will be sent via email.
  4. Initial login: Access the server via Remote Desktop Connection.
  5. Installation:
  6. Configure Auto-Restart: Apply recommended TWS restart settings from the documentation (Recommended TWS Restart Settings).
  7. Security options: Disable Windows updates, schedule automatic restarts, optionally restrict remote access to IP ranges.

Further articles in the OptionsApp documentation:

  • Create Strato account
  • Add Strato server to account
  • Start Strato server for the first time
  • Restart or reinstall server

4. Alternative providers

If Strato is not available in your country (e.g. Switzerland), you can use the following alternatives:

  • IONOS (Recommended alternative)
    • Very good performance, Windows servers from approx. 15 €/month
    • Available in many countries, including Switzerland and Austria
    • Setup and RDP access analogous to Strato
    • Website: https://www.ionos.de

Other alternatives (recommended for special latency or computing power requirements):

  • Hetzner Cloud (Germany)
  • Contabo (Germany, EU locations)
  • OVH Cloud (France / throughout Europe)
  • Microsoft Azure or AWS Lightsail (worldwide, higher costs)

5. Notes & best practices

  • Automatic updates: Windows updates should be manually monitored to avoid unwanted restarts.
  • TWS auto-restart: When operating on a server, a daily automatic restart of TWS is recommended. See Recommended TWS Restart Settings
  • Check connection time: Server time should be synchronized with US market time. See Video 7: Set timezone

6. Frequently asked questions (Q&A)

Q: Can OptionsApp run without interruption after starting?
A: Yes, server operation enables 24/7 runtime. TWS must be restarted once daily, but can automatically restart daily via Auto-Restart for up to a week (Auto-Restart is configurable. See Recommended TWS Restart Settings). We recommend restarting OptionsApp once per week.

Q: Which Windows version is recommended?
A: Windows Server 2022, stable operating system and the OptionsApp installer works flawlessly.

Q: Can you also use Windows Server 2025? A: Yes, however the installation file does not work under Windows Server 2025, so you must install OptionsApp via the ZIP file provided in the user portal (unzip).

Q: Is it possible to use multiple sessions (e.g. Live + Paper) on one server?
A: Yes, see documentation Using multiple sessions and accounts.

Q: Can I use OptionsApp on a Mac via the server?
A: Yes, via RDP connection through the free app Windows App. Here's a suitable guide: Remote access via RDP: Windows PC, macOS, iPhone & iPad

Q: What happens when a server restarts?
A: It behaves like a normal Windows system. After restart you'll find an empty desktop and need to start TWS and OptionsApp.

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