Summary: Your MT4 EA needs non-stop operation. This guide covers choosing a VPS, installing MT4, transferring your EA and settings, and configuring auto-restart for 24/7 trading.




Step 1: Choose a Forex VPS Provider

Pick a VPS located close to your broker’s server. Popular options include Amazon AWS, Google Cloud, or specialized Forex VPS services (e.g., Beeks, Nextronic). Start with a low-cost plan (2GB RAM, 2-core CPU). Screenshot: VPS provider pricing page.

Step 2: Connect to Your VPS via Remote Desktop

On Windows, press Win+R, type ‘mstsc’ and press Enter. Enter your VPS IP address, username, and password provided by the VPS company. Click ‘Connect’. Screenshot: Remote Desktop Connection window with fields filled.

Step 3: Download and Install MT4 on the VPS

Inside the VPS desktop, open a browser. Go to your broker’s website and download the MT4 installer. Run it and complete the installation (same as on your local PC). Screenshot: MT4 installer running on VPS desktop.

Step 4: Copy Your EA and Settings 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 ‘Presets’ folder if you saved parameters. Paste into the same folder path on the VPS. Screenshot: File Explorer showing Experts folder with EA file.

Step 5: Log In to Your Trading Account on VPS

Open MT4 on the VPS. Click ‘File’ → ‘Login to Trade Account’. Enter your account number, password, and select the correct server. Click ‘OK’. Screenshot: MT4 login window on VPS.

Step 6: Attach EA and Enable AutoTrading

Drag your EA from the Navigator window onto a chart. Set parameters. Ensure the ‘AutoTrading’ button on the toolbar is green (lit). Also check ‘Tools’ → ‘Options’ → ‘Expert Advisors’ → enable ‘Allow automated trading’. Screenshot: AutoTrading button highlighted green.

Step 7: Keep VPS Running and Set Auto-Restart

Close your remote desktop session (do not shut down the VPS). Most VPS providers offer a ‘start with system’ option. Configure Windows Update to not auto-restart, or use a watchdog script. Your EA will now trade 24/7. Screenshot: VPS control panel showing ‘running’ status.

Tip: Test first on a demo account for 48 hours before going live.

Reference: MetaQuotes Help Desk – Running MetaTrader on Virtual Private Server.