MT5 Expert Advisors

How to install an EA

Installing an Expert Advisor in MetaTrader 5 takes a few minutes. The steps below are general guidance — always follow the specific instructions provided with your EA.

Step-by-step

In MT5, open File → Open Data Folder.
Go to MQL5 → Experts and copy the EA file (.ex5 or .mq5) into that folder.
Restart MT5 or refresh the Navigator panel.
Find the EA under Expert Advisors in the Navigator and drag it onto the chart and timeframe it is designed for.
In the dialog, enable Allow Algo Tradingand set the EA's inputs.
Click the Algo Trading button in the toolbar so it turns green.

Confirm it's running

A smiley face appears in the top-right of the chart.
Check the Experts and Journal tabs for log messages.
Verify inputs match the EA's documentation.

Before going live

Run the EA on a demo account first, then test it properly and review backtest vs live trading differences. For reliable 24/5 operation, host MT5 on a VPS.

Continue research

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I install an Expert Advisor in MetaTrader?

Copy the EA file into the MetaTrader 'Experts' folder (via File > Open Data Folder > MQL4/MQL5 > Experts), restart or refresh the platform, then drag the EA onto a chart and enable automated trading.

Where do EA files go in MetaTrader?

EA files (.ex4/.ex5 or .mq4/.mq5) belong in the Experts subfolder inside the MQL4 or MQL5 directory, which you can reach through File > Open Data Folder in the platform.

Why isn't my Expert Advisor trading?

Common reasons include AutoTrading being disabled, the EA not being attached to a chart, 'Allow algorithmic trading' not being ticked, an unsupported symbol, or the market being closed.

Do I need to enable AutoTrading?

Yes. The AutoTrading (or Algo Trading) button must be enabled, and the EA's settings must allow live trading, otherwise the EA will load but not place trades.

Should I run an EA on a VPS after installing it?

It is recommended. Running the EA on a VPS keeps it active 24/7 with stable connectivity, so it continues trading even when your home computer is off.

Essential reading

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Written by

Daniel Krings

Daniel Krings is the founder of MaxAi Trader, a Senior ServiceNow Architect, and an algorithmic trading specialist with 8+ years of experience in automated trading, live execution, brokers, slippage, and trading infrastructure.

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Important Disclaimer

This site is an independent research and review platform for educational purposes only.

Nothing on this website is financial advice. Trading involves risk, and performance varies by market conditions, strategy, and user decisions.