Current ATS Desktop Apps Prerequisite: .NET 8 Desktop Runtime
ATS Windows desktop apps require Microsoft .NET 8 Desktop Runtime (x64). Install the current serviced .NET 8 Desktop Runtime from the ATS download instructions or Microsoft’s .NET 8 download page, choosing Windows Desktop Runtime — Windows x64. Downloading the file alone does not install it: open the installer, complete installation and reopen the ATS app.
.NET Desktop Runtime is different from .NET Framework, the SDK and ASP.NET Core Runtime. A later major runtime should not be assumed to replace the .NET 8 runtime required by the app. If a current app still asks for another runtime, report the app name and exact message to ATS support.
14-Day Trial, Zero to Hero and Paid-Plan Access
The ATS full-feature free trial lasts 14 days. Week 1: work through Zero-to-Hero Stages 1–5 across five trading days. Week 2: focus on your written trade plan and practise with the VIP workspaces and eligible trading-group resources. Zero to Hero is the first-week learning pathway within this trial; it is not a separate standalone free one-week course.
Start through your Trader Launch Pad, complete onboarding, request the trial if eligible and confirm the activation email. Purchasing AFT Essentials does not activate the full-feature trial or include all ATS Ultimate/VIP benefits. Check the licences and benefits assigned to your account before expecting access to trial or VIP resources. If you bought before activating a trial and need help with access, contact ATS support for an account review. Any support-granted extension or upgrade is specific to that account.
Choose Self-Assisted or One-to-One Assisted Setup
If installation is difficult or you prefer someone to guide you, there are two routes. Self-assisted: follow the ATS Desktop Apps installation guide, one step at a time, with ATS Help Bot and technical support for supported issues. Get assisted: explore optional paid one-to-one onboarding and setup from independent ATS Ecosystem providers.
Ecosystem providers may help with ATS account onboarding, NinjaTrader and ATS installation, connections, licence sync and workspace setup. Review services, pricing and booking options through the ATS Ecosystem. Providers set their own terms; personal setup sessions are not automatically included with an AFT Essentials purchase. You can be experienced in trading and still choose personal help with the technology.
AFT Quick Start Guidance
For a new ATS Universal Account, start with the Trader Launch Pad Quick Start guide. Verify your email in Stage A, complete the Stage B prerequisites, request or skip the optional trial in Stage C, then select Finish Trader Launch Pad and Close Setup & Open Trader Launch Pad to reach eligible Downloads.
For AFT installation, configuration, licensing, trading-system guidance and troubleshooting, visit the centralized ATS Help Center.
Start with the 24/7 AI Help Agent for instant assistance, or search the FAQs, online guides, and video tutorials. You can also submit an AI-assisted support ticket with human-agent backup when further help is required.
For the fastest answer, describe the issue clearly and include the product name, version, relevant settings, and any error message.