How to Enable and Use Auto-Trading (Expert Advisors) on MetaTrader 5 (MT5)

MetaTrader 5 supports automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs)—programs that execute trades based on predefined strategies. Enabling auto-trading allows you to run these strategies without manual intervention.

Step 1: Enable Auto-Trading in MT5

• On Desktop:

1. Click the AutoTrading button on the main toolbar (it should turn green when active).

2. Alternatively, go to Tools → Options → Expert Advisors and check Allow Automated Trading.

• On Mobile:

  • MT5 mobile does not support running EAs, only desktop or VPS does.

Step 2: Install an Expert Advisor (EA)

• Download your EA (usually a .ex5 file).

• Place it in the following folder:
  ...\MetaTrader 5\MQL5\Experts

• Restart MT5 so the EA appears in the Navigator panel under Expert Advisors.

Step 3: Attach EA to a Chart

• Open the chart of the instrument you want to trade.

• In the Navigator panel, drag the EA onto the chart or double-click it.

• Adjust EA settings in the pop-up window, including:

  • Lot size

  • Stop Loss / Take Profit

  • Other strategy parameters

• Click OK to activate.

Step 4: Monitor EA Performance

• Check the Experts and Journal tabs in the Toolbox for logs and status updates.

• Ensure the AutoTrading button remains green to keep the EA running.

Tips for Using Auto-Trading

• Always test your EA on a demo account before going live.

• Use VPS hosting for uninterrupted 24/7 trading.

• Monitor performance regularly—automation does not mean risk-free.

Want to learn more about the MetaTrader 5 Platform? Visit the MetaTrader 5 Platform Page on our website.