> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://flashrdp.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Can You Use a VPS With a Prop Firm? FTMO, Topstep and Apex Rules

> Whether prop trading firms allow a VPS: FTMO generally allows it, Topstep prohibits it for trading and Apex bans servers used to hide your location. Check before you trade.

**Whether you can trade a prop firm account from a VPS depends on the firm: FTMO generally allows it, Topstep prohibits it for trading, and Apex Trader Funding bans VPS and cloud servers used to hide your identity or location.** Read your firm's current rules before you trade from a server, because breaking them can cost you the account and its payouts.

<Tip>Trading an account that allows a VPS? A [FlashRDP forex VPS](https://flashrdp.com/windows-rdp/forex?utm_source=docs\&utm_medium=guide\&utm_campaign=prop_firm_vps) runs MetaTrader, cTrader or NinjaTrader 24/7 with full Administrator access, from \$11.99/mo.</Tip>

## The rules, firm by firm

Checked against each firm's own pages on October 13, 2026. Firms change their rules, so follow the source links before relying on this table.

| Firm | VPS for trading | Condition | Source |
| - | - | - | - |
| FTMO | Generally allowed | Don't set your location to the United States when using MetaTrader, cTrader or TradingView | [FTMO FAQ](https://ftmo.com/en/faq/can-i-travel-or-use-vpn-vps/) |
| Topstep | Prohibited | A private server may store data, backtest, log and show a read-only dashboard, but must not send orders | [TopstepX API Access](https://help.topstep.com/en/articles/11187768-topstepx-api-access) |
| Apex Trader Funding | Banned when used to disguise you | No VPNs, proxies or cloud servers used to misrepresent or conceal your identity, device or location | [Apex Prohibited Activities](https://apextraderfunding.com/help-center/getting-started/prohibited-activities/) |

### FTMO

FTMO says VPN and VPS use is "generally allowed", with one exception: when using a VPN or VPS, don't change your geolocation to the United States while using MetaTrader, cTrader or TradingView. FlashRDP's Phoenix location is in the United States, so **choose Paris, France for an FTMO account**.

### Topstep

Topstep's help center states that the use of VPS, VPNs and remote servers is prohibited by its Terms of Use, and that running automation on a VPS can lead to suspension or removal from the program. Its line is order transmission: a server you own can watch and record, for example store historical data, run research and backtests, or keep logs, but it can't trade.

### Apex Trader Funding

Apex prohibits VPNs, proxy servers, cloud servers and anonymizing tools used to misrepresent, conceal or disguise your identity, device or location, for example to get around its rules, security checks or geographic restrictions. The rule is about hiding who and where you are, so if you're unsure whether your setup is allowed, ask Apex support and get the answer in writing.

## Before you trade from a VPS

<Steps>
  <Step title="Read your firm's current rules">
    Search the firm's help center and terms for "VPS", "VPN" and "remote". If the rules are unclear, ask support in writing and keep the reply.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Pick a location your firm accepts">
    FlashRDP has two locations: Phoenix, Arizona (USA) and Paris, France. Your server's dedicated IPv4 stays the same, so your platform always connects from that location.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Keep the account yours">
    Apex's rules ban sharing accounts outright, and other firms have similar rules. Trade only your own account, and don't let others sign in to your server.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set up the platform">
    Install your platform and keep Expert Advisors running after you disconnect: see [Run MT4 / MT5 for forex trading on a VPS](/docs/guides/mt4-forex-trading).
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Related Articles

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