All IBKR Platforms at a Glance

Interactive Brokers offers seven trading platforms across desktop, mobile, and web — more than any other major broker. Each serves a different type of trader. Here’s what each one does and who it’s for. (For IBKR’s full regulation, fees, and account types, see our Interactive Brokers Review.)

Below, we cover each platform in detail — what it does, how to download it, and who it’s for. We also explain how to choose between IBKR Desktop and TWS, the system requirements for desktop platforms, and common problems you may encounter during installation.

1. Download IBKR Desktop — The Recommended Desktop Platform

IBKR Desktop is the best starting point for most new IBKR users, because it combines the most popular tools from the professional-grade Trader Workstation in a modern, single-window interface that’s far easier to learn. It gives you access to the same 170+ global markets, the same order types, and the same pricing — with a cleaner design and features that IBKR developed based on client feedback.

IBKR Desktop includes AI-assisted screeners that help you find trading opportunities, customizable layouts with drag-and-drop tool arrangement, advanced charting with multiple technical indicators, and real-time streaming data across all asset classes. Version 2.0 added Linux support and AI Screeners, with extended trade history, tabbed tools, and font size customisation on the roadmap.

Download Links

Both a Latest and a Beta version are available. Choose Latest unless you specifically want to test new features before general release.

How to Download and Install

1. Go to interactivebrokers.com/en/trading/ibkr-desktop-download.php and select your operating system.
2. macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag IBKR Desktop to your Applications folder. Windows: Run the .exe installer and follow the prompts. Linux: Run the .sh file from your terminal.
3. Launch IBKR Desktop and log in with your IBKR username and password.
4. Complete IB Key authentication on your phone (you’ll need IBKR Mobile installed — see Section 3).

2. Download Trader Workstation (TWS) — The Professional Platform

Trader Workstation is IBKR’s flagship desktop platform built for active traders and professionals who need maximum flexibility, because it offers capabilities that IBKR Desktop does not: multi-monitor support with detachable windows, API connectivity for algorithmic trading, over 100 order types and algos, the Mosaic workspace with fully customisable tool layouts, and Classic TWS view with spreadsheet-style order entry.

TWS is Java-based and has been IBKR’s primary platform for over two decades. It supports everything IBKR offers — stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds, funds, forecast contracts on 170+ markets. If you use automated trading strategies through the IBKR API, TWS is required — IBKR Desktop does not support API connections.

Which Version Should You Download?

The TWS download page offers five versions, which can be confusing for new users. Here’s what each one means:

Download the “Latest” version unless you have a specific reason to choose otherwise. It’s the production release that auto-updates to the newest stable build each time you log in. Each version is available for macOS Apple Silicon, macOS Intel, Windows 64-bit, and Linux 64-bit.

System Requirements

TWS has real hardware requirements — unlike most broker apps, it won’t run well on a budget laptop.

If you manage a large portfolio (500+ stock positions or 100+ option positions) or use more than 15 chart windows simultaneously, you may need to manually increase the memory allocated to TWS to at least 2 GB. Instructions are in the TWS User Guide under “Memory Size.”

How to Download and Install

1. Go to interactivebrokers.com/en/trading/download-tws.php.
2. Select the “Latest” tab (default), then click the download link for your operating system.
3. macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag TWS to Applications. Windows: Run the .exe installer. Linux: Run the .sh file from terminal.
4. Launch TWS and enter your IBKR credentials. The platform auto-updates on first login.
5. Complete IB Key authentication via IBKR Mobile.

3. Download IBKR Mobile — Required for All Users

IBKR Mobile is not optional — every IBKR user needs it, because it contains IB Key, the two-factor authentication system required to log in to any IBKR platform, authorise withdrawals, and maintain your full account security level. IBKR Mobile is also a powerful trading app in its own right, with access to 170+ markets, advanced order types including VWAP, Iceberg, and Adaptive Algo, mobile check deposit, and full portfolio management.

Even if you do all your trading on IBKR Desktop or TWS, you’ll open IBKR Mobile at least once per session to approve your IB Key authentication. Losing access to IBKR Mobile (changing phones without transferring IB Key, deleting the app, or losing your device) means you’re locked out of all IBKR platforms until you restore it — and your daily withdrawal limit drops to $50,000.

How to Download

1. iOS: Open the App Store, search “IBKR Mobile,” and install the app published by Interactive Brokers LLC.
2. Android: Open Google Play, search “IBKR Mobile,” and install.
3. Open the app and log in with your IBKR username and password.
4. Set up IB Key immediately. Go to Authentication → Activate IB Key. This links the authenticator to your specific device. For a full walkthrough, see our IBKR Login guide.

4. Download IBKR GlobalTrader — Simplified Mobile Trading

IBKR GlobalTrader is IBKR’s simplified mobile app for beginners and casual investors, because it strips away the complexity of IBKR Mobile and presents a streamlined interface focused on stock and ETF investing across 90+ global markets. It was redesigned in December 2025 with a faster interface, AI-generated news summaries, forecast contracts, options trading on 30+ markets, and Investment Themes that link companies across the S&P 1500.

GlobalTrader supports fractional share investing from $1, overnight US stock trading, and cryptocurrency trading (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others via Paxos or Zero Hash). You can open a simulated trading account in seconds — no application needed — and practice with $10,000 in virtual funds before going live.

How to Download

1. iOS: Open the App Store and search “IBKR GlobalTrader.”
2. Android: Open Google Play and search “IBKR GlobalTrader.”
3. Open the app and either log in with your existing IBKR account or tap “Try for Free” to open a simulated account instantly.

5. Client Portal and Web Platforms — No Download Needed

Client Portal is IBKR’s web-based platform that requires no installation — log in from any browser to manage your account, fund your positions, execute basic trades, access reporting, and adjust account settings. It works on desktop, tablet, and mobile browsers and is designed to complement your desktop or mobile trading platform rather than replace it.

Client Portal is where you handle administrative tasks: depositing and withdrawing funds, managing tax documents, configuring trading permissions, subscribing to market data, and accessing account statements. It also supports basic trading with real-time quotes and order entry, though it lacks the advanced charting and analysis tools found in IBKR Desktop or TWS.

Access Client Portal: interactivebrokers.com → Log In

Specialty Web Platforms

IBKR ForecastTrader is a web-based platform for trading exchange-listed forecast and event contracts — yes-or-no questions on economic data, climate events, and other real-world outcomes. It runs entirely in your browser and is available to eligible US residents.

IMPACT is a mobile app (iOS and Android) for sustainable investing. It uses ESG data from third-party providers to help you find and invest in companies that align with your environmental, social, and governance values. It connects to your existing IBKR account.

Which Platform Should You Download?

The right IBKR platform depends on your experience level and what you want to do. Unlike most brokers where there’s one app to download, IBKR gives you specialised tools — here’s how to match the right platform to your goal.

Our Recommended Setup

For new investors: Download IBKR GlobalTrader to explore with a simulated account, then download IBKR Desktop + IBKR Mobile when you’re ready for live trading.

For active traders: Download IBKR Desktop + IBKR Mobile. IBKR Desktop handles your daily trading; IBKR Mobile handles IB Key authentication and on-the-go position monitoring.

For professional/algorithmic traders: Download TWS + IBKR Mobile. TWS provides the API connectivity, multi-monitor support, and advanced order types you need.

Start with IBKR Desktop + IBKR Mobile — that covers everything most traders need. Upgrade to TWS when you hit the limits of IBKR Desktop’s feature set, and explore GlobalTrader, ForecastTrader, or IMPACT based on your specific interests.

Setting Up IB Key After Download

IB Key is the single most important post-download step, because without it you cannot log in to any IBKR platform securely, and your withdrawal limits are restricted. IB Key is built into the IBKR Mobile app — there is no separate authenticator app to download.

Quick Setup

1. Download and install IBKR Mobile on your iOS or Android device.
2. Open IBKR Mobile and log in with your IBKR username and password.
3. Go to Authentication → Activate IB Key.
4. Create a PIN or enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition).
5. IB Key is now linked to your device. Each time you log in to any IBKR platform, you’ll receive an IB Key notification on your phone — tap to approve.

For the complete IB Key setup walkthrough, including what to do if you’re switching phones, restoring from backup, or locked out, see our detailed Interactive Brokers Login guide.

Common Download and Installation Problems

Windows SmartScreen Blocks the Installer

Windows SmartScreen may display a warning that the IBKR Desktop or TWS installer is from an “unknown publisher.” This happens because the installer file is newly downloaded and SmartScreen hasn’t built enough reputation data for it yet. Click “More info” and then “Run anyway” to proceed. This is a standard Windows security feature, not a problem with the IBKR software.

Which TWS Version Should I Pick?

The TWS download page shows five version tabs (Latest, Stable, Beta, Offline Latest, Offline Stable) with four operating system options each — 20 download links total. Unless you have a specific reason to choose otherwise, click “Latest” and select your operating system. The Latest version is the current production release with automatic updates. The other four versions exist for institutional users, beta testers, and environments with restricted update policies.

“Another Session Is Already Connected”

IBKR allows only one active trading session per account at any time. If you log in to TWS on your desktop and then try to log in to IBKR Desktop or IBKR Mobile for trading, the first session disconnects. This is by design — IBKR’s session limit applies across all platforms. You can still use IBKR Mobile for IB Key authentication and portfolio monitoring while another platform has the active trading session, but you cannot run two simultaneous trading sessions.

IBKR Desktop vs. TWS — Installed Both, Which Opens?

If you have both IBKR Desktop and TWS installed, they operate as separate applications with separate shortcuts. Launching one does not affect the other, but logging in to one will disconnect any active trading session on the other (single-session limit). You can switch freely between them — your account, positions, and settings are the same across both.

IB Key Not Working After Phone Reset or New Phone

If you reset your phone or got a new device without transferring IB Key first, you’ll need to reactivate it. Log in to Client Portal from a computer (this may use a temporary security code sent via SMS), go to Settings → Security → SLS (Secure Login System), and re-register your new device. If you cannot access Client Portal, contact IBKR support — you’ll need to verify your identity, which may take several business days. For prevention: always transfer IB Key before changing devices.

Conclusion

Interactive Brokers has more trading platforms than any other major broker because it serves genuinely different trader types — from beginners who want simplified mobile investing (GlobalTrader) to professionals who need multi-monitor algorithmic trading (TWS) to passive investors interested in sustainable portfolios (IMPACT). The challenge is knowing which platform fits your needs, not downloading all of them.

For most new IBKR users, IBKR Desktop + IBKR Mobile is the right starting combination. IBKR Desktop gives you professional-grade tools in a clean, modern interface. IBKR Mobile gives you IB Key authentication and on-the-go trading. Together, they cover everything a typical trader needs.

If you outgrow IBKR Desktop, TWS is the upgrade path — same account, same credentials, more power. GlobalTrader is worth exploring if you want the simplest possible stock investing experience. Client Portal handles all account administration through your browser. All platforms are free, all connect to one account, and paper trading is available on TWS and GlobalTrader.

For IBKR’s full regulation, fees, account types, and our TIC assessment, read our Interactive Brokers Review.

Frequently Asked Questions