Keep EAs running 24/7 after you disconnect RDP
The whole point of a MetaTrader VPS is unattended trading. Attach your EA correctly, turn AutoTrading green, then disconnect RDP — never sign out — so Windows and MetaTrader stay alive on Singapore or Tokyo.
- Copy EAs into MQL4\Experts or MQL5\Experts via Open Data Folder
- AutoTrading (MT4) / Algo Trading (MT5) must be green
- Disconnect RDP ≠ Sign out
- Optional: Startup folder / Task Scheduler after reboot
Copy the EA into the correct folder
In MetaTrader: File → Open Data Folder. MT4 → MQL4\Experts. MT5 → MQL5\Experts. Paste your .ex4 or .ex5 file here (Indicators go to Indicators). Restart MetaTrader or right-click Navigator → Refresh until the EA appears.
Attach the EA to a chart
Open the symbol timeframe your strategy needs. Drag the EA from Navigator onto the chart. In the settings dialog enable Allow live trading / Allow Algo Trading, set inputs, and click OK. A happy face (MT4) or active status means the EA is allowed to run.
Enable AutoTrading / Algo Trading globally
Click the AutoTrading (MT4) or Algo Trading (MT5) toolbar button until it is green. Also check Tools → Options → Expert Advisors: allow automated trading, and disable “Disable automated trading when…” options that would stop EAs on chart change if you do not want that.
Disconnect RDP the right way
Close the Remote Desktop window or choose Disconnect. Do not Sign out. Your VPS keeps the Windows session; MetaTrader stays open; EAs keep receiving ticks from the broker.
Optional — auto-start after VPS reboot
For maintenance reboots: put a shortcut to terminal.exe / terminal64.exe in the Windows Startup folder, and use a provider-approved auto-logon method so Windows reaches the desktop unattended. Reboot once in a quiet market window and confirm Journal + AutoTrading come back.
Quick live checklist
Before you walk away: broker Connected, correct account, EA face/status OK, AutoTrading green, VPS sleep disabled, RDP disconnected (not signed out). Reconnect later only to monitor — not to “keep it alive.”
EA FAQ
EA works on PC but not on VPS?
Usually wrong folder, MT4/MT5 mismatch, AutoTrading off, or missing .dll dependencies. Compare Journal messages.
Do I need the RDP window open 24/7?
No. That would waste bandwidth and risk accidental sign-out. Disconnect after setup.
Will Windows Update stop my EA?
Updates that reboot can. Schedule reboots, use auto-start, and avoid installing updates during high-impact news if possible.