AUTOMATED TRADING / GUIDE

What to check before using an EA or automated strategy

Understand how EAs work, why monitoring is still required and what to review before using automated trading software.

An EA is software that places or manages orders according to programmed rules. It can automate execution, but it does not remove market risk or guarantee a result.

Check the platform version, hosting environment, strategy conditions, drawdown information and provider terms before use.

An EA follows rules; it does not predict the market

An EA can continue to run when a PC, VPS or platform is available, but connectivity, platform updates and account conditions can interrupt operation.

A rule set that worked in a past period can perform differently when market conditions change.

Review losses before headline results

Do not assess an EA only by profit or win rate. Review drawdown, losing periods, position sizing and how the strategy behaves when conditions change.

  • Confirm the platform version
  • Check the source and period of any performance data
  • Understand maximum loss and drawdown information

Provider terms and broker rules still apply

Automated strategies may be subject to broker rules, instrument specifications and VPS requirements. Check the applicable terms before use.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Does an EA generate profit automatically?

A. No. It automates programmed actions and can also incur losses.

Q. Do I need a VPS?

A. Not always, but continuous operation needs a stable environment. Check the requirements of the platform and provider.

Sources and conditions

How this guide is maintained

FX Textbook is edited from official platform documentation, broker-published information and applicable terms where available. Account conditions, services and rules can change. Confirm the current terms in the broker's registration flow before you act.

Important risk information

FX Textbook is an independent information site, not a broker or provider of personal investment advice. Forex and CFDs involve risk. You may lose some or all of your invested capital. No trading result is guaranteed.

NEXT STEP

Next: confirm platform support

Compare the platforms and account conditions available with each broker.

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Apply this checklist to broker information

BROKER INFORMATIONXS: account options and conditionsBROKER INFORMATIONHFM: account options and conditionsBROKER INFORMATIONDecodeFX: account options and conditions

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