> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.bitbrokertrade.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Simulator: test the BitBrokerTrade trader risk-free

> The simulator lets you test the BitBrokerTrade trader risk-free with real, real-time price data and a fictional starting amount, without any real investment.

The simulator is the ideal way to learn how BitBrokerTrade works without financial risk. You trade with a fictional amount, but based on real, real-time price data from an actual exchange. This shows you exactly how the trader would perform with your intended capital, without risking a single euro.

<Tip>
  Always start with the simulator before using real money. This way you get comfortable with the interface, the settings, and how the trader behaves in different market conditions.
</Tip>

## Activate the simulator

<Steps>
  <Step title="Navigate to Exchanges">
    Log in to BitBrokerTrade. In the left column, click **Settings**, then **Exchanges**, and then **Add exchange**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Simulator">
    Click the **"Simulator"** button to choose the simulator as the exchange.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set a name">
    In the **Name** field, enter `Simulator`. This makes it easy to tell the simulator apart from your real exchanges.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose an exchange for price data">
    Under **Exchange**, choose the exchange whose price data you want to use. This is the exchange the simulator bases its real-time price information on. Preferably choose an exchange you also plan to open an account with.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter a starting amount">
    Under **Starting amount**, enter the amount you want to use as fictional investment capital. Choose an amount similar to what you would actually deposit later, so you get a realistic picture of the results.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add the simulator">
    Click **Add**. The connection is active immediately.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  The simulator has exactly the same interface as a real exchange connection in BitBrokerTrade. Everything you set up and learn in the simulator works the same way with a real exchange.
</Note>

## Connect a trader to the simulator

Now that the simulator is active, connect a trader to the simulator connection. Follow the step-by-step guide on [Trader settings](/traders/trader-settings). When setting up the trader, choose the **Simulator** as the exchange.