API Solutions

API (Application Program Interface)

FIX CTCI

IB API

Our IB Application Program Interface (API) connects through the Trader Workstation or the IB Gateway, and does not require additional technical overhead such as a dedicated FIX server. The IB API supports multiple programming languages, including Java, C++, ActiveX and DDE for Excel.

FIX CTCI

An industry standard FIX solution for customers who can support a FIX Computer-to-Computer Interface (CTCI) infrastructure.


API Solutions Comparison


Feature IB API FIX CTCI
Required Programming Expertise Intermediate to Expert Expert
Supported Platforms
  • Windows – All APIs
  • MAC, UNIX/Linux – Java API only
Windows, MAC, Unix/Linux
Available Access Method
  • Internet via secure login through the IB Gateway or TWS
  • Extranet
  • Dedicated Line
  • Internet via secure login through the IB Gateway
  • Extranet
  • Dedicated Line
  • VPN
Message Limit per Second 50 150
Receive real-time portfolio updates? Yes No
Is a sample application provided? Yes No
Advisor allocations supported? Yes No
Access from multiple IP addresses? Yes
  • Via Internet - Yes
  • Via Extranet and Dedicated Line or VPN - No
Built-in error/event logging? Yes No
Required Minimums For monthly minimums per connection type, see the Required Minimums page, Dedicated Line and CTCI tab.