What’s the difference between the broker’s version and MetaQuotes’ official version?

The broker’s version automatically configures the server—ideal for beginners. The MetaQuotes version requires manual server setup.

What if I forget my login information?

Check your broker’s Account Opening Confirmation email—it contains your server name, account number, and password.

Can I use MT5 on Mac?

Yes, you can download the Mac version from the official site. However, some brokers only support the Windows version.

Can I use MT5 on mobile?

Yes, with the official MetaTrader 5 app (iOS/Android), you can trade and view charts in real time.

Complete MT5 Installation & First Launch Guide with Screenshots (Windows)

How to Download MT5

① (Preparation) Obtain Your Trading Account Information

To download and use MT5, you must register with a broker and open a trading account.
Without an account, you won’t be able to log in or start trading even if MT5 is installed.

Below we’ll explain the download and setup process using IC Markets as an example.

If you have never traded on MT5 before, it’s recommended to start with a demo account.

Broker Client Area Demo Account Opening Screen (IC Markets)

Once your account is opened, you’ll receive login credentials (account ID, password, and server) via email.
Keep this information secure as you’ll need it to log in.

② Download the MT5 Installer

After registration, go to the client area and download the MT5 installer.

Sample of the MT5 download screen from a Forex broker’s client portal

Check your downloads folder to confirm that icmarketssc5setup.exe has been saved.

MT5 setup executable file saved in the Downloads folder

The filename is usually “BrokerName + setup.exe.”

Note that this .exe file is only the installer—not the MT5 program itself.

If your broker doesn’t have a download button in the client area, try one of the following:

Client Area
Official website’s “Platform” page
Welcome email with login details

MT5 Installation Steps (Windows)

Double-click the downloaded “BrokerName + setup.exe”.
When the setup window appears, click “Next.”
Click “Finish” and MT5 will automatically launch.

Note: If the Windows “User Account Control (UAC)” prompt appears, select “Yes.”

If you encounter EA operation or log-writing issues due to UAC, changing the MT5 installation folder may solve the problem.
For more details, see MT5×EA UAC Permission Error: Causes and Solutions for Beginners.

Initial Setup on First Launch

When MT5 launches for the first time, the account creation window will appear.

① Server Selection Screen

Choose your broker and trading server. In most cases, suggested servers are displayed automatically.
If your broker is not shown, use the search box to find it.

MT5 Open Account Screen - Broker Selection

If this screen doesn’t appear automatically, right-click “Accounts” in the Navigator window and select “Open an Account.”

② Enter Login Information

MT5 Open Account Screen - Enter Login Information (Account Number, Password, Server)

Login ID: Account number from your broker email
Password: Provided or set during account registration
Server: Select the server name mentioned in the email

What to Do If the Server Listed in the Email Is Not in the Dropdown Menu

If the target server does not appear in the server dropdown on the login screen, please try the following:

Right-click on “Account” in the Navigator → Select “Open an Account”.
Search by entering “HFMarkets” (example) in the broker search.
Do not click “Next” on this screen; instead, click “Cancel”.
Open the login screen again, and the target server will appear in the server dropdown.

If login is successful, the “Connection Status Lamp” at the bottom right will turn green and quotes will start updating.
This means you are connected.

MT5 screen bottom right - connection status lamp is green

If the icon remains a red stop symbol, connection failed.

Check these points if connection fails:

Incorrect server selection
Incorrect password
Unstable internet connection

Recommended Initial Settings

① Change Interface Language

Go to “View → Languages” in the menu, then restart MT5.

② Adjust Chart Appearance

Remove grid lines: “Right-click → Uncheck Grid.”
Switch to candlesticks: “Click the Candlestick icon on the toolbar.”

③ Add Timeframes & Currency Pairs

Right-click the “Market Watch” window to show/hide symbols or open a chart.

MT5 Market Watch window and right-click menu

If your desired symbol is missing, right-click or click the “Symbols” icon in the top toolbar to add it.

MT5 Symbol Specification Details Screen

Summary: MT5 Ready to Use!

Once you’ve completed these steps, MT5 installation and initial setup are done.
You can now open charts, add indicators or EAs, and start trading or backtesting immediately.

If you wish to run multiple MT5 accounts on the same PC or VPS, see
How to Install & Run Multiple MT5 Instances on One PC/VPS (Beginner’s Guide)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What’s the difference between the broker’s version and MetaQuotes’ official version?: A. The broker’s version automatically configures the server—ideal for beginners. The MetaQuotes version requires manual server setup.
Q. What if I forget my login information?: A. Check your broker’s “Account Opening Confirmation” email—it contains your server name, account number, and password.
Q. Can I use MT5 on Mac?: A. Yes, you can download the Mac version from the official site. However, some brokers only support the Windows version.
Q. Can I use MT5 on mobile?: A. Yes, with the official “MetaTrader 5” app (iOS/Android), you can trade and view charts in real time.