How to Install an EA in MT4 (Step by Step)
Copy the .ex4 file into MQL4/Experts via File → Open Data Folder, refresh the Navigator, drag the EA onto a chart and turn on AutoTrading. Includes WebRequest settings for cloud EAs.
I wrote this guide based on how I actually trade gold. No theory — just what works after 10 years.
Key takeaways
- ◆1. Open the data folder. In MT4 choose File → Open Data Folder.
- ◆EAs that receive decisions from the cloud need permission to call their server. Go to Tools → Options → Expert Adviso...
- ◆A smiley face (or a hat icon in newer builds) in the top-right corner of the chart means the EA is active. A sad face...
- ◆Run it on a demo account first, confirm that every order carries a stop loss, and size the risk with the [lot size ca...
To install an Expert Advisor (EA) in MT4, copy its .ex4 file into the MQL4/Experts folder (File → Open Data Folder), restart MT4 or refresh the Navigator, drag the EA onto a chart, and turn on AutoTrading. The smiley face in the chart's top-right corner confirms it is running.
Steps
- Open the data folder. In MT4 choose File → Open Data Folder.
- Copy the file. Open MQL4 → Experts and paste the EA's .ex4 file there. Indicators the EA needs go into MQL4 → Indicators.
- Refresh. Restart MT4, or right-click Expert Advisors in the Navigator (Ctrl+N) and choose Refresh.
- Attach it to the right chart. Open the symbol and timeframe the EA is built for (for example XAUUSD M5) and drag the EA from the Navigator onto the chart.
- Allow trading. In the window that opens, on the Common tab, tick "Allow live trading". Set the inputs on the Inputs tab and click OK.
- Turn on AutoTrading. Click the AutoTrading button in the toolbar so it turns green.
If the EA connects to a server
EAs that receive decisions from the cloud need permission to call their server. Go to Tools → Options → Expert Advisors, tick "Allow WebRequest for listed URL" and add the address given in the EA's own documentation.
Check it is working
- A smiley face (or a hat icon in newer builds) in the top-right corner of the chart means the EA is active. A sad face means live trading is not allowed.
- The Experts tab at the bottom shows the EA's messages; the Journal tab shows platform errors.
- MT4 must stay open and connected. For 24-hour running, use a VPS.
Before running it on a live account
Run it on a demo account first, confirm that every order carries a stop loss, and size the risk with the lot size calculator. Tianshu EA's setup notes are on the Tianshu EA page.
FAQ
Why does my EA not appear in the Navigator?
The file is in the wrong folder or MT4 was not refreshed. It must be in the Experts folder of the same terminal's data folder, then refresh the Navigator.
Why is the face on the chart sad?
Live trading is not allowed for that EA. Open its properties (F7) and tick "Allow live trading", and make sure AutoTrading is on.
Do I need to keep my computer on?
Yes, MT4 must stay running and connected. Many traders use a VPS so the EA runs around the clock.
I don't predict. I prepare. Every trade I share here is placed with real money, in real time. No indicators, no noise — just price action and experience.
— Happy trading, Lin
Recommended Brokers
Recommended: Visit EBC → — tested across all sessions.
Start Trading Gold →Recommended: Visit Wisuno → — tested across all sessions.
Start Trading Gold →Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn this?
Most beginners grasp the basics in 2–4 weeks of focused practice. Expect 3–6 months of consistent trading before results become consistent. Start with a demo account.
Do I need a special broker to trade gold?
No. Any regulated broker that offers XAUUSD works. Choose one whose licence you can verify on the regulator's website, and avoid unregulated offshore brokers.
What is the minimum capital to start?
You can open an account with $100–$500, but that is closer to practice money. For real trading, aim for $1,000 or more so you can keep risk to about 1% per trade.
Is price action better than indicators?
Price action strips out the noise; indicators lag. Many traders move to pure price action after years of indicator-based trading because it is cleaner and faster to react to.
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