How to install an Expert Advisor in MetaTrader 5 and 4: step by step, and why it is not working

Updated 13 October 2026

Installing an EA takes a couple of minutes, but three things stop most beginners: the wrong folder, Algo Trading switched off and blocked web requests. Step by step for MetaTrader 5 and 4.

Installing

In the terminal: File → Open Data Folder.
Open MQL5/Experts (in MT4, MQL4/Experts) and copy the EA file there: .ex5 for MT5, .ex4 for MT4.
In the Navigator, right-click Expert Advisors → Refresh (or restart the terminal).
Drag the EA from the Navigator onto the chart of the symbol you want.
On the Common tab tick Allow Algo Trading (in MT4, Allow live trading) and press OK.
Turn on the Algo Trading button on the toolbar (in MT4, AutoTrading): it should turn green.

When everything is right, the EA name shows in the top-right corner of the chart with a blue hat icon (in MT4, a smiling face).

If the EA needs the internet

EAs that check a licence, send notifications or talk to a phone use WebRequest. Allow it: Tools → Options → Expert Advisors → tick Allow WebRequest for listed URL and add the address from the EA’s instructions.

Why the EA is not working

Grey hat or sad face — Algo Trading is off in the terminal or in the EA settings.
The EA is missing from the Navigator — the file is in the wrong folder (for example, another terminal’s folder) or the list was not refreshed.
An .ex5 file in MT4 (or the reverse) — the versions are not interchangeable.
“WebRequest not allowed” in the Experts log — the address is not on the list.
Nothing happens at the weekend — the market is closed, there are no new ticks.

Error details are in the Experts and Journal tabs of the Toolbox.

Keeping the EA running around the clock

An EA works only while the terminal is open. If your computer goes off, keep the terminal on a VPS — more in the VPS and phone control guide.

TradeDeck

TradeDeck buyers get a ready file for their terminal version and a short guide; for MT4 it lists the WebRequest address. You can use it free for 7 days with a trial key.

More guides

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