Guide for the desktop platform. Feature names and availability depend on language, version and licence. Your custom robot files and rules remain private; these tutorials only cover general procedures.
Step by step
Download the delivered robot from the agreed source and extract ZIP files first. MT5 normally runs an .ex5 file. An .ex4 belongs to MT4; a .set only stores inputs. If you received only .mq5 source, ask the developer for compilation instructions or the compiled EX5.
Open the MT5 terminal you will use. Choose File > Open Data Folder, open MQL5 > Experts and copy the EX5 into that folder or a named subfolder. Do not use Indicators for an EA. Place any additional dependencies only as documented by the developer.
Return to MT5. Open View > Navigator or press Ctrl+N. Refresh the Expert Advisors section using its context menu. If necessary, restart MT5 and check that you used the correct terminal Data Folder and file extension.
Open the intended symbol and timeframe. Drag the EA from Navigator onto that chart. Only one EA can run on a chart; use separate charts for separate instances.
Review the Inputs in its properties before accepting. Check order size, limits, trading hours and order identifiers against the supplied documentation. Default values are not a risk recommendation.
Order execution requires algorithmic trading permission both globally and for the individual EA. Enable it only after checking the account, symbol and inputs, preferably on demo. Do not enable DLL imports, WebRequest or external integrations without a trusted, documented requirement.
Check the EA name and status icon on the chart, the algorithmic trading button and Experts/Journal messages in the Toolbox. Loaded does not mean it should open an order immediately. If errors appear, keep execution paused and consult the delivery instructions.
How to test your robot before use
Open View > Strategy Tester or press Ctrl+R in desktop MT5. You can also right-click an EA in Navigator and choose Test. Historical testing is separate from live trading.
Choose the Expert Advisor, symbol, timeframe and date range. Review simulated deposit, currency, leverage and tick generation mode. History availability and quality affect the analysis.
Start the test and wait. Review the report, trades, drawdown and error logs, rather than profit alone. Use visual mode where available to understand entries and exits.
Continue with related tutorials
Official documentation consulted
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