How to Set Up NinjaTrader 8 for TopStep

Connect NinjaTrader 8 to your TopStep account and configure the platform for TopStep's trailing eod (floor moves up at end of day) rules. This guide covers connection, verification, and recommended risk settings.

Connection Steps

Create your TopStep account

Sign up at https://www.topstep.com and purchase your evaluation. You will receive login credentials and a data feed connection string via email.

Download and install NinjaTrader 8

Download NinjaTrader 8 from the official website. Run the installer and follow the setup wizard.

Add the data feed connection

Open NinjaTrader 8 and navigate to Connections or Data Feed settings. Add a new connection using the server address, username, and password from TopStep.

Connect to the data feed and verify market data is streaming. Check that your account balance matches your TopStep dashboard.

Configure risk settings

Set position size defaults, max order quantity, and any ATM strategies to prevent accidental oversizing that could breach TopStep rules.

Recommended Settings for TopStep

--Set a daily loss alert at 1.6% (80% of TopStep's 2% limit) so you stop trading before the hard cap.
--Enable end-of-day position flattening if possible. Trailing drawdown resets at session close, so flat positions reduce overnight risk.
--TopStep does NOT allow overnight holding. Set an auto-flatten or reminder 5 minutes before market close.
--Weekend holding is not allowed. Close all positions before the Friday session ends.
--Consistency rule: No single day > 50% of total profit. Track daily P&L in a spreadsheet to stay compliant.
--Save your workspace template after configuring so you can restore it quickly if settings are lost.

TopStep Rules at a Glance

Drawdown Type	Trailing EOD (floor moves up at end of day)
Max Drawdown	3%
Daily Loss Limit	2%
Overnight Holding	Not allowed
Weekend Holding	Not allowed
News Trading	allowed

Try a Free Audit

Check a trade against TopStep's rules for the $50,000 account. No sign-up required.

TopStep$50,000Daily limit: $2Max DD: $3

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