Compare what needs to move
| Question | MT4 | MT5 |
|---|---|---|
| Programs | Inventory MQL4 EAs, indicators and dependencies. | Inventory MQL5 EAs, indicators and dependencies. |
| Broker terminal | Use the intended broker-provided MT4 build and server. | Use the intended broker-provided MT5 build and server. |
| Workspace | Record charts, inputs and configuration before migration. | Record charts, inputs and configuration before migration. |
| Testing load | Measure analysis and testing separately from live operation. | Identify Strategy Tester and optimization activity separately. |
| Sizing | Measure active charts, program behavior and concurrency. | Measure active charts, program behavior and concurrency. |
| Operations | Test connection, restart and restore procedures. | Test connection, restart and restore procedures. |
Program compatibility is the first gate
Do not move an MT4 program into an MT5 installation and assume it will work. Confirm the platform version, supported build and dependencies with its developer. If a strategy is ported or replaced, treat the result as an application change requiring testing, not merely a server migration.
The broker’s offered account and instruments are another input. The appropriate hosting environment is the one that supports the selected terminal and its workload, not the one with the most attractive generic platform label.
Run both only with a clear inventory
If a workflow requires both platforms, maintain distinct installations and verify each terminal’s data location. Label accounts, program sets and workspaces clearly. Sample them together if they must run concurrently.
Record whether testing jobs overlap with live activity. Resource contention can be created by an additional application regardless of which platform a live terminal uses. Separate or schedule such jobs deliberately.
A migration decision checklist
- Confirm broker platform and account-server availability.
- Confirm program compatibility and licensing dependencies.
- Back up the working workspace and prepare a demo test.
- Collect representative combined CPU, memory and storage observations.
- Test unattended operation, planned restart and restoration.
Use the MT4 requirements or MT5 requirements worksheet to request a configuration. Follow the setup sequence before enabling live activity.