Before you start
- Know which platform you use. MT4 tools end in
.ex4, MT5 tools in.ex5. They aren't interchangeable. - Close any chart where an older version of the same tool is running.
- Have your license key ready if the tool uses one.
1. Open the data folder
In MetaTrader, open the File menu and choose Open Data Folder. A file window opens on the folder MetaTrader reads tools from.
2. Copy the files into the right folder
- Expert advisors:
MQL4/Expertson MT4,MQL5/Expertson MT5. - Indicators:
MQL4/Indicatorson MT4,MQL5/Indicatorson MT5. - Set files, if included:
MQL4/Presetson MT4,MQL5/Presetson MT5.
3. Refresh MetaTrader
Restart MetaTrader, or right-click inside the Navigator panel and choose Refresh. The tool now appears under Expert Advisors or Indicators.
4. Attach it to a chart
Open a chart of the symbol and timeframe the tool is designed for, then drag the tool from the Navigator onto the chart. Review the inputs, load a set file if you have one, and click OK.
5. Enable trading for expert advisors
Switch on Algo Trading (called AutoTrading on older MT4 builds) in the toolbar, and tick Allow Algo Trading on the tool's Common tab. A small smiling face or hat icon in the chart corner means it is running.
6. Allow license checks
Licensed tools confirm your license over the internet. Open Tools, then Options, then Expert Advisors, tick Allow WebRequest for listed URL, and add the address given in your download notes.
Run every new tool on a demo account first, with the same broker and settings you plan to use live. Check how it behaves around news and weekends before trusting it with real money.
Something not working?
Check the Experts and Journal tabs at the bottom of MetaTrader for messages, then send us a screenshot on Telegram from the contact page. Include the tool name and your MetaTrader build number so we can help faster.