To copy signals 24/7, MetaTrader has to be running somewhere that never sleeps. The two options are a forex VPS (a rented Windows server you run MT4/MT5 on) or cloud execution (we run it for you). Here's how they compare.
The core difference
- VPS — you rent a server, install MetaTrader and the EA, and maintain it. You're the sysadmin.
- Cloud execution — we run the platform on our infrastructure. You just enter your broker credentials.
Cost
- VPS: typically $10–$40/mo on top of your copier subscription, billed separately.
- Cloud: bundled into the Cloud plan (from $19/mo) — no separate server bill. You bring your own execution provider: MetaApi (pay-as-you-go, billed per account) or api2trade (a fixed monthly fee, no per-account/hourly billing) — pick whichever is cheaper for how many accounts you run. (api2trade setup)
Setup & maintenance
- VPS: install Windows updates, keep MetaTrader logged in, restart after reboots, fix it when it disconnects. Ongoing chores.
- Cloud: nothing to install or maintain. Connect and go.
Uptime
- VPS: as reliable as the provider and your config. A missed Windows reboot can take you offline silently.
- Cloud: managed 24/7 with monitoring, so trades keep executing.
Speed
Both can be fast. What matters is proximity to the broker and clean delivery. Cloud execution places orders in well under a second; a good VPS near your broker's servers is comparable.
Control
- VPS: full control — install other tools, multiple terminals, custom EAs.
- Cloud: streamlined for copying; less to tinker with (which is the point).
Which should you choose?
- Already comfortable managing a VPS, or want full local control? VPS + the EA line ($15/mo).
- Want zero infrastructure, phone-only, guaranteed uptime? Cloud execution.
With TradeJournal Pro you can run either — the AI parser, risk controls, and prop-firm safety are identical.
Compare plans · Cloud execution explained.
Not financial advice. Trading carries risk.