How to automate your trading rules on MT4 and MT5
Automating trading rules means linking a measurable condition to an action. Distinguish a position stop-loss, a notification and protection that monitors account-level limits.
In this guide
Three different functions
- A stop-loss instructs an exit for a position.
- An alert tells you a condition has been met.
- Account protection monitors rules such as drawdown, SL count or trading hours and applies the intended actions.
These functions complement each other. A stop-loss on the last trade does not by itself prevent another entry afterwards. An alert can be ignored. Define the behaviour you need before choosing a tool.
Where does the automation run?
MetaTrader documents automated-trading permissions for Expert Advisors. If an EA runs in your own terminal, that terminal and its connection must remain operational for the EA to act. This differs from a stop instruction held on the server.
SentinelleTrader manages the protection environment remotely: your personal computer does not need to remain on after the account is connected and activated. Orders placed from your phone belong to the same account and remain within its protection scope. The remote service and broker connection must still be operational.
Connect the right account
- Select MT4 or MT5 to match the account you actually use.
- Enter the account login and exact broker-server name.
- Use the main trading password, not a read-only investor password.
- Wait for connection confirmation and check the displayed status.
An incorrect server or platform can make the connection fail. Correct the information before relying on protection. Read-only access cannot perform the necessary trading actions.
Configure unambiguous rules
Set the drawdown cap, maximum SL count and minimum loss threshold for counting an SL. Configure days and hours if included in your plan, then check reset time and time zone. Save and wait for settings to be applied.
The SL-limit guide distinguishes the counter from its loss threshold. The daily-loss-limit guide helps you check the reference and measurement period.
Understand “trading locked”
While a SentinelleTrader lock is active, every new position is automatically closed until the defined reset time. This is an action on trading, not a transfer of account ownership or a promise of profitability.
A position may open and then close: do not confuse this protection with guaranteed broker rejection of every order before entry. Delays, slippage or lost connectivity can affect execution. Check dashboard status and messages; do not deliberately create live losses to test the system.
What remains your responsibility?
You choose the strategy and limits. Check that they fit your accounts, including any prop-firm-specific rules. Protection software does not replace reading those terms or guarantee that an external limit will never be exceeded.
See plans and included features or the SentinelleTrader demonstration. To prepare the plan before choosing a tool, start with sticking to your trading risk management.
