Top 10 FAQs on Using an Expert Advisor (EA) Effectively & Safely

1. What is an Expert Advisor (EA)?

An EA is an automated trading program that executes trades according to predefined strategies. It removes emotional decision-making and ensures consistent execution.

 

2. How do I install an EA on MT4/MT5?

Open MT4/MT5

Go to File → Open Data Folder

Place the EA file in MQL4/Experts or MQL5/Experts

Restart the platform

Drag the EA onto a chart and enable Algo Trading

3. What account type should I use for an EA?

A low-spread, raw/ECN account is ideal. EAs depend on tight spreads, fast execution, and low slippage.
Examples: IC Markets Raw, Pepperstone Razor, FP Markets Raw.

4. How much capital do I need?

Most EAs work best with at least $1,000–$2,000, but some require more if they use grid, averaging, or scaling strategies. Always check your EA’s recommended minimum equity. Always Backtest EA than on a demo trading account before a small live account.

5. Should I run the EA on a VPS?

Yes — a VPS ensures 24/7 uptime, low latency, and stable execution. It is essential if:

Your EA trades during news

You use scalping

You need low ping to your broker

6. How do I choose safe risk settings for an EA?

Follow the 1–2% rule per trade unless your EA specifies otherwise.
Avoid:

oversized lot sizes

martingale settings

unlimited grid levels

no stop loss

Always test smaller risk first.

7. Why is backtesting important?

Backtesting helps you understand:

drawdown levels

win rate

risk-to-reward behaviour

how the EA performs in different market conditions

Use 99% ticks data for accurate tests.

8. Can I leave my EA running 24/7?

Yes, but with conditions:

Run it on a reliable VPS

Ensure your broker has no weekend gaps that cause issues

Restart MT4/MT5 weekly to clear memory

9. What safety features should I look for in an EA?

A safe EA should include:

equity protection

daily loss limit

max drawdown stop

spread filter

news filter

trade frequency control

If any of these are missing, you must monitor closely.

10. When should I stop or pause the EA?

Pause the EA when:

High-impact news events occur

Market conditions drastically change

You notice drawdown beyond your comfort level

Broker spreads spike or execution becomes unstable

You need to adjust parameters safely