Summary: Your MT4 EA stops when your computer sleeps or restarts. This guide shows how to choose a forex VPS, install MT4, copy your EA and settings, and keep it running 24/5.
Step 1: Choose a Forex-Friendly VPS Provider
Pick a VPS located close to your broker‘s server for low latency. Many brokers offer free VPS if you trade a minimum monthly volume. Popular options include Amazon AWS, Google Cloud, or specialized forex VPS services. Screenshot: comparison table of VPS providers with latency numbers.
Step 2: Connect to Your VPS via Remote Desktop
After purchasing a VPS, you will receive an IP address, username, and password. On Windows, press Win+R, type ‘mstsc’, and press Enter. Enter the VPS IP address and click ‘Connect’. Then enter your credentials. Screenshot: Remote Desktop Connection window with IP filled in.
Step 3: Install MT4 on the VPS
Download the MT4 installer from your broker‘s website inside the VPS. Run the installer and complete the installation (Next → Next → Install). Screenshot: MT4 installer running on a VPS desktop.
Step 4: Copy Your EA and Profile from Local PC
On your local computer, navigate to ‘C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\MetaQuotes\Terminal\[TerminalID]\MQL4\Experts\’. Copy your EA (.ex4 file). Also copy the ‘Profiles’ folder if you have custom chart setups. Paste these files into the same folders on the VPS. Screenshot: file explorer showing Experts folder with EA files.
Step 5: Log In and Attach Your EA
Open MT4 on the VPS. Click ‘File’ → ‘Login to Trade Account’. Enter your trading account credentials. Then drag your EA from the Navigator window onto any chart. Verify that the smiley face icon appears in the top-right corner of the chart. Screenshot: EA attached with smiley face showing ’OK’.
Step 6: Keep VPS Running and Monitor
Close the Remote Desktop window (do not ‘Sign Out’ – just click the X). MT4 will continue running on the VPS. Log in periodically to check your EA‘s performance. Set up email or Telegram alerts from your EA for trade notifications. Screenshot: VPS dashboard showing MT4 running with no user logged in.
Reference: MetaQuotes Help Desk – Running MetaTrader on a Virtual Private Server.