How to Install an Expert Advisor in MT5

Before you start

• MetaTrader 5 installed and logged in — see How to Install MetaTrader 5.
• The EA's MT5 file: a compiled .ex5 (an MT4 .ex4 will not load). Extract .zip downloads first.
• Any .set preset files the developer supplies.
• Ideally a demo account for the first run.

What you'll learn

• Put the EA file in the right folder.
• Attach it to a chart with the correct permissions.
• Check from the logs that it's running.

Steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Open the data folder

   In MT5, choose File → Open Data Folder, then open MQL5 → Experts.

   Mark as done: Open the data folder
2. 2

   Step 2: Copy the EA file

   Paste the .ex5 file into Experts. A sub-folder per product keeps things tidy. Put any .set files in MQL5\Presets.

   Mark as done: Copy the EA file
3. 3

   Step 3: Refresh the Navigator

   Open the Navigator (Ctrl+N), right-click Expert Advisors and choose Refresh. The EA now appears in the list.

   Mark as done: Refresh the Navigator
4. 4

   Step 4: Attach the EA to a chart

   Open a chart with the symbol and timeframe from the EA's documentation, then drag the EA onto it or double-click it in the Navigator.

   Mark as done: Attach the EA to a chart
5. 5

   Step 5: Allow it to trade

   In the properties window, on the Common tab, tick Allow Algo Trading (called Allow Auto Trading in older builds).

   If the developer says the EA uses DLLs, enable Allow DLL imports on the Dependencies tab — only for software you trust.

   Mark as done: Allow it to trade
6. 6

   Step 6: Review the inputs

   On the Inputs tab, check the lot-size and risk settings, or click Load to import a .set file. Configure EA settings explains the common inputs.

   Mark as done: Review the inputs
7. 7

   Step 7: Turn on Algo Trading

   Click OK, then make sure the Algo Trading button on the main toolbar (called AutoTrading in older builds) is on. The EA's name and a status icon appear in the chart's top-right corner.

   Mark as done: Turn on Algo Trading

Troubleshooting

The EA isn't in the Navigator

Check it's an .ex5 in MQL5\Experts of the data folder (not Program Files), then refresh the Navigator or restart MT5.

"Algo trading is disabled" in the Experts tab

Both the toolbar Algo Trading button and the EA's own Allow Algo Trading (press F7 on the chart) must be on.

It loads but never trades

Follow Troubleshoot an EA That Isn't Trading.