MT4/MT5 Trading Guides
Simple step-by-step tutorials for getting started with MetaTrader, installing EAs, indicators, and more.
How to Install an Expert Advisor (EA)
MT4 & MT5
Open Data Folder
In MetaTrader, go to File → Open Data Folder
Navigate to Experts Folder
Go to MQL4 → Experts (MT4) or MQL5 → Experts (MT5)
Copy EA Files
Paste the .ex4/.ex5 file (and any .dll files to Libraries folder)
Restart & Attach
Restart MT4/MT5, find the EA in Navigator, and drag it onto a chart
How to Install an Indicator
MT4 & MT5
Open Data Folder
In MetaTrader, go to File → Open Data Folder
Navigate to Indicators Folder
Go to MQL4 → Indicators (MT4) or MQL5 → Indicators (MT5)
Copy Indicator Files
Paste the .ex4/.ex5 or .mq4/.mq5 files
Restart & Apply
Restart MT4/MT5, right-click Navigator → Refresh, then drag indicator onto chart
How to Backtest an EA
Strategy Tester
Open Strategy Tester
Press Ctrl+R or go to View → Strategy Tester
Select EA & Settings
Choose your EA, symbol, timeframe, date range, and modeling type (use "Every tick" for accuracy)
Download History Data
Go to Tools → History Center and download data for your symbol
Start Test
Click Start and wait for results. Check the Report tab for performance
How to Enable Live Trading (AutoTrading)
Allow EA to place trades
Enable AutoTrading Button
Click the AutoTrading button in the toolbar (icon should turn green)
Check EA Settings
Right-click EA on chart → Properties → enable "Allow live trading"
Verify Smiley Face
EA should show a smiley face in the chart corner (not a frown)
Always test on a demo account first before using real money!
How to Enable DLL Imports
Required for some EAs
Open Options
Go to Tools → Options (or press Ctrl+O)
Expert Advisors Tab
Click the Expert Advisors tab
Enable DLL Imports
Check "Allow DLL imports" and click OK
Copy DLL Files
Place any .dll files in MQL4/Libraries or MQL5/Libraries
Only enable DLL imports for trusted EAs. DLLs can access your system.
How to Allow Web Requests
For news/signal EAs
Open Options
Go to Tools → Options
Expert Advisors Tab
Click the Expert Advisors tab
Enable Web Requests
Check "Allow WebRequest for listed URL"
Add URLs
Add the specific URLs the EA needs (e.g., https://api.example.com)
Need more help? Check out our resources or contact us!