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How to trade with MT5
MetaTrader5 (MT5) is a popular online trading platform that can be used to automate your trading. Here’s a guide on what MetaTrader 5 is and how to use it.
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What is MetaTrader 5?
MetaTrader 5 is the evolution of online trading platforms, connecting traders to global markets through real-time pricing, advanced charting, and comprehensive analysis tools. Built for today's trading landscape, MT5 preserves the familiar MetaTrader interface while delivering faster execution, 21 timeframes (vs MT4's 9), and sophisticated automation through Expert Advisors.
It's not a replacement for MT4 but an advanced alternative for traders seeking greater flexibility and institutional-grade tools.
How to get started on MT5
Getting started with MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is simple and intuitive. The steps below guide you through opening an account, setting up the platform, and customizing your workspace.
- Open an IG Bank account: Apply for a standard CFD account. Most applications will be approved in a few days.
- Add an MT5 account: Head to the Accounts Dashboard, where you can select ‘MetaTrader 5’ from the ‘Add an account’ pop-up.
- Download MT5: Install the MT5 trading platform on your desktop or mobile device using the official IG link to access 115+ preloaded indicators and Expert Advisors.
- Log in to your MT5 account: Launch MT5, select the IG Group server, and enter the MT5 login credentials emailed to you to connect your account.
- Fund your account: Deposit funds through the IG Account Dashboard via bank transfer, debit card, or wire transfer.
- Customize your MetaTrader5 workspace: Set your preferred chart type, timeframes, and layout to create a comfortable trading environment.
How to trade CFDs with MT5
Once your MT5 platform is connected and customized, placing your first trade is simple. Follow the below steps to get in the game—plus, learn how to manage open positions and review past activity—building confidence and refining your trading approach as you go.
- Select your markets: Use the “Market Watch” window to choose the CFD, stock, commodity, or other instrument you want to trade.
- Add indicators and add-ons: Load technical indicators, scripts, or Expert Advisors (EAs) if you plan to use automated or custom strategies.
- Build your trading assumption: Analyze charts, news, and indicators to decide whether you expect the market to rise, fall, or consolidate before entering a trade.
- Set trade parameters: Choose your position size and consider possible stop-loss and take-profit levels before placing an order.
- Place your order: Execute a buy or sell trade through the “New Order” window or directly from the chart.
- Monitor and manage your position: Watch price action, adjust stops and limits as needed, and manage risk in real time.
- Close your position: Close the trade manually, or rely on your stop-loss or take-profit orders to exit the position automatically.
- Analyze your results: Use the “History” tab to review completed trades, assess performance, and refine your approach for future trades.
Benefits of trading CFDs with MetaTrader 5
MT5 transforms CFD trading with 21 timeframes that reveal both micro price movements and macro trends. The built-in economic calendar and strategy tester display provide crucial context—showing upcoming volatility events and how trade entries would have performed historically.
Speed matters in CFD, and MT5 delivers with lightning-fast execution and rock-solid stability—enhanced with an MT5 VPS. You can backtest strategies against historical data, then deploy successful approaches through Expert Advisors for emotion-free, consistent execution. With integrated risk management tools and cross-device synchronization, you stay connected and in control whether trading from desktop, web, or mobile.
Start trading on MT5 today
- 45 free pro indicators exclusive to IG Bank
- Spreads from 0.8 pips, zero commission¹
Start trading on MT5 today
- 45 free pro indicators exclusive to IG Bank
- Spreads from 0.8 pips, zero commission¹
FAQs
Is MetaTrader 5 good for beginners?
Yes. MT5's clean interface and demo accounts make it beginner-friendly while offering room to grow. Start with basic charts and indicators, then explore advanced features as your skills develop. MT5's broader capabilities make it the smarter long-term trading choice.
Is MetaTrader 5 good for CFD trading?
Absolutely. MT5 excels at CFD with real-time pricing across all currency pairs, 21 analytical timeframes, and integrated news/economic data. Fast execution combines with stop-loss and take-profit orders for round-the-clock risk management. Advanced traders benefit from robust backtesting and Expert Advisor automation for consistent strategy execution.
What can I trade on MetaTrader 5?
Beyond CFD, MT5 connects you to stocks, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and futures—all from one platform. This unified access simplifies portfolio diversification and cross-market opportunities without switching between multiple applications.
What is a VPS for MetaTrader 5?
A VPS (Virtual Private Server) runs MT5 24/7 on cloud servers, keeping Expert Advisors and strategies active even when your computer is off. Essential for automated trading, overnight sessions, and ensuring orders execute without interruption from local internet or power issues.
Can I set buy and sell limits on MetaTrader 5?
Yes. MT5's pending limit orders execute automatically at your specified prices. Buy limits trigger below current price when markets fall; sell limits trigger above when prices rise. This disciplined approach captures better entry points without chasing markets.
What's the difference between MT4 and MT5?
MT4: CFD-focused, 9 timeframes, simple interface perfect for beginners.
MT5: Multi-asset capable, 21 timeframes, market depth, faster processing, integrated economic calendar Key MT5 advantages include multi-threaded backtesting, advanced order execution, and access to stocks, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies beyond CFDs.
Is MetaTrader 5 legal in Switzerland?
Yes. MT5 is completely legal when used through regulated brokers like IG Bank. Not all brokers offer MT5, but IG Bank provides full access for eligible traders.
What is the minium deposit for MT5?
MT5 itself has no minimum deposit and neither does IG Bank. Fund with as low as CHF1 to start and scale up as you please.
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