IBKR API Checklist Before Your First Connection
A short operational checklist to verify ports, API settings, and client IDs before running Python code.
Checklist goals
This article gives a fast pre-flight sequence so users can reduce avoidable connection errors on day one.
Use it before every new environment, machine, or account context.
Required checks
- Confirm TWS or IB Gateway is running.
- Confirm API socket is enabled.
- Confirm port matches paper/live session.
- Confirm client ID is not already in use.
- Confirm trusted IP policy is explicit.
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