How to Install and Activate an Expert Advisor in MetaTrader 5
A MetaTrader 5 Expert Advisor is normally supplied as a compiled EX5 file. The file must be placed in the correct MetaTrader folder, loaded from the Navigator and attached to the appropriate chart. Licensed products may also require an approved trading account number and licence key.
Before You Begin
Confirm the correct MetaTrader version, broker, symbol, account number, licence status and recommended settings. Never share your trading password, OTP, private key or seed phrase.
Installation Steps
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Open the MetaTrader Data Folder
In MetaTrader 5, select File and then Open Data Folder.
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Open the Experts Folder
Inside the data folder, open MQL5 and then Experts.
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Copy the EX5 File
Place the supplied Expert Advisor file inside the Experts folder.
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Refresh MetaTrader 5
Restart MT5 or right-click Expert Advisors in the Navigator and select Refresh.
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Attach the EA to a Chart
Open the recommended symbol and timeframe, then drag the EA from the Navigator onto the chart.
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Enter the Required Settings
Enter the licence key and confirm lot size, risk controls, trading hours and other product-specific settings.
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Enable Algo Trading
Turn on Algo Trading in MT5 and confirm the EA status shown on the chart.
Common Activation Checks
Check the Experts and Journal tabs for any message related to an invalid licence, wrong account number, blocked WebRequest, unsupported broker symbol or disabled algorithmic trading.
Important Licence Notice
A standard licence may be linked to one approved account. Changing the account number, broker or licence period may require approval or reactivation.
Before Using a Live Account
Confirm that the EA loads without errors, uses the correct symbol, recognises the licence and displays the intended lot size and risk settings. Testing on a demo account can help confirm technical installation, although demo and live execution may differ.
