Download QuantNest Runner
QuantNest Runner is local execution infrastructure — paper trading runs on your PC, not in the browser. After you verify in Studio, download Runner, connect from Studio, then start paper mode. QuantNest does not hold funds or place orders from the web app.
Get running in 3 steps
1. Download
Get the Windows installer below. This is the same Runner linked from Studio and My strategies after you verify a strategy.
2. Install
Run the installer on your PC. Windows may show SmartScreen because this release is not code-signed yet - that is expected.
3. Start paper trading
Open Studio → connect runner → start paper trading. Your strategy observes the market locally; attachment status appears in My strategies.
Windows 10 or later
v0.4.4 · SHA256 670622399426ED2A6AFA7C76836E805124933FC8EC8C9F6FF16E39AE4F61ED31
SmartScreen: Windows SmartScreen may warn that the publisher is unknown. This Windows release is not code-signed yet. Choose More info → Run anyway to continue. We are working toward signed releases.
Having trouble? Email support@quantnest.com
Installer blocked by Windows?
If the download completes but the installer will not launch, Windows Defender or SmartScreen may have quarantined it. Open Windows Security → Protection history, allow the QuantNest Runner file if listed, then run the installer again. Choose More info → Run anyway on the SmartScreen prompt. This beta build is not code-signed yet — that is expected. Email support if the file keeps disappearing after download.
Apple Silicon (M1+)
Find → Verify → Run
Where you are on the path
Find a listing, read its certificate, reproduce in Studio, then run locally with Runner.
What beginners ask next
Short answers to the question you probably have right now — tap to expand.
Do I need exchange API keys?
Not for paper mode. Runner simulates locally — connect from Studio after you verify.
Read help articleWindows blocked the download — is it safe?
SmartScreen may warn on new publishers. Runner runs only on your machine; we never place orders from the web app.
Read help articleWhat do I do after install?
Return to Studio, open your strategy, and use Run on PC from the execution panel.
Open StudioQuick answers
What is QuantNest Runner?
Local execution infrastructure on your Windows PC. Studio connects to it over a secure relay so you can start paper mode after you verify a strategy.
Why do I need it?
Verification happens in Studio. Runner is the next infrastructure step when you want local paper simulation and daily status in My strategies - without QuantNest holding your keys or placing orders.
Is paper mode safe?
Paper mode simulates signals on your machine. It does not send live orders. QuantNest does not custody funds. Start with paper until you deliberately choose optional live tooling later.
Do I need Kraken API keys now?
No. Paper mode does not require exchange API keys. Keys are only for optional live execution later, and they stay on your device.
Installer blocked by Windows?
If the download completes but the installer will not launch, Windows Defender or SmartScreen may have quarantined it. Open Windows Security → Protection history, allow the QuantNest Runner file if listed, then run the installer again. Choose More info → Run anyway on the SmartScreen prompt. This beta build is not code-signed yet — that is expected. Email support if the file keeps disappearing after download.
What about Windows SmartScreen?
Windows SmartScreen may warn that the publisher is unknown. This Windows release is not code-signed yet. Choose More info → Run anyway to continue. We are working toward signed releases.
What happens after install?
Return to Studio on the strategy you verified → Connect Runner → Start paper trading. Then open My strategies to see attachment status and your next step.
Troubleshooting
Runner installed but Studio does not see it
Keep Runner open, confirm you are signed in with the same account, and retry Connect from Studio. Firewall software can block localhost — allow Runner if prompted.
Connection troubleshootingSmartScreen or antivirus blocked the installer
SmartScreen: choose More info → Run anyway — this unsigned beta build is expected on Windows. If the installer will not open at all, check Windows Security → Protection history and allow QuantNest Runner. Optional: verify the download from the /download page.
Install helpPaper vs live — what is enabled today?
Paper simulation is the supported path. Live keys stay on your device; QuantNest does not place orders from the web app.
Execution boundariesSafety
- Runner runs entirely on your local machine.
- Paper simulation needs no exchange API keys - connect from Studio and start paper mode.
- Optional live keys stay on your device (Windows Credential Manager or macOS Keychain).
- QuantNest does not place orders from the web app.
- Never enable withdrawal permissions on your exchange API key. QuantNest does not require them.
Already installed? Continue where you left off: