User Workstation Requirements
This document outlines the hardware and software requirements for running IC Desktop on Windows and macOS. Meeting the recommended specifications ensures optimal performance with 4Hz real-time data feeds and multi-chart layouts.
IC Desktop runs entirely on your machine. No cloud dependency, no browser relay. Your hardware is your infrastructure.
Hardware Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Dual-core 2.0 GHz (x64) | Quad-core 2.5 GHz or faster |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Storage | 2 GB available disk space | SSD with 10 GB available |
| Display | 1280 × 800, 60 Hz | 1920 × 1080 or higher, 120 Hz |
| Graphics | Hardware-accelerated GPU (OpenGL 3.2+) | Dedicated GPU, 2 GB VRAM |
| Network | 10 Mbps broadband (wired or Wi-Fi) | 50 Mbps wired Ethernet, <20ms latency |
Note: IC Desktop connects directly to exchange feeds. A stable, low-latency internet connection is required for 4Hz real-time data. Satellite and high-latency connections may degrade feed quality.
Supported Operating Systems
Windows
Windows 10 (64-bit)
Supported MIN
Windows 11 (64-bit)
Supported REC
Windows Server
Not supported
Architecture
x64 only
macOS
macOS 12 Monterey
Supported MIN
macOS 13 Ventura
Supported REC
macOS 14 Sonoma
Supported REC
Architecture
Universal (Intel + Apple Silicon)
Linux: Coming in a future release. See the Vision page for the roadmap.
Software Requirements
| Component | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | Included in installer | No separate runtime installation required |
| Visual C++ Redist. | 2015–2022 (x64) | Windows — via Microsoft Store install |
| Firewall / Proxy | Outbound TCP 443 open | Required for exchange data feeds and license validation |
| Antivirus | Whitelist IC Desktop executable | Some AV products may flag unsigned auto-updater |
| License Key | Required at first launch | Obtain at institutionalcharts.com/pricing |
Futures data regional availability varies, depending on location.
Multi-Monitor Configuration
| Setup | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Monitors | 1 × 1080p | 2–4 × 1080p or 1 × 4K |
| GPU outputs | 1 display output | 2+ independent display outputs |
| Scaling (Windows) | 100 % | 100 % or 125 % (150 %+ may affect layout) |