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+--- Thema: The Ultimate Guide to Copyrighted Expert Advisors (EAs) in MetaTrader 5 (/showthread.php?tid=61)
The Ultimate Guide to Copyrighted Expert Advisors (EAs) in MetaTrader 5 - indigostrader - 23.11.2025
The Ultimate Guide to Copyrighted Expert Advisors (EAs) in MetaTrader 5**
**Posted by:** Admin (indigostrader.com)
**Forum:** indigostrader.com
Hello Traders,
A common topic of discussion and confusion in the algorithmic trading community revolves around copyrighted Expert Advisors (EAs) for MetaTrader 5. What are they? How does copyright protect them? What are your rights and responsibilities when using them?
This guide will break down everything you need to know.
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First, let's start with the basics. An Expert Advisor (EA) is a robotic trading system—a piece of software—written in the MQL5 programming language that runs on the MT5 platform. Its purpose is to automate analytical and trading tasks, including:
* **Chart Analysis**
* **Generating Trading Signals**
* **Placing, Modifying, and Closing Orders Automatically**
* **Managing Risk (Stop-Loss, Take-Profit)**
EAs remove emotion from trading and can operate 24/7, making them powerful tools for traders.
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When a developer creates an original EA, that code is automatically protected by **copyright law** in most countries (under the Berne Convention). The code is considered a "literary work."
A "copyrighted EA" means the creator has exclusive rights to:
* **Reproduce** the EA (copy it).
* **Distribute** the EA (sell or give it away).
* **Create derivative works** (modify it or create new EAs based on it).
* **Publicly display** the work.
The copyright exists from the moment of creation. While formal registration with a government copyright office strengthens a legal claim, it is not always required for protection.
---
EA developers use various technical methods to enforce their copyright and prevent unauthorized use. These are often referred to as **License Management Systems**:
* **Unique License Key / Activation Code:** The most common method. When you purchase an EA, you receive a unique key tied to your MT5 account number, your computer's hardware ID (HDD serial, MAC address), or both. The EA will only run on the activated instance(s).
* **Time-Limited Demos:** Developers may offer a fully functional version that stops working after a set period (e.g., 1 month). This allows you to test the EA before buying.
* **Account Number Restriction:** The EA is hard-coded to work only on a specific MT5 trading account number. This is simple but effective.
* **Dongle Protection:** A physical USB key (dongle) must be plugged into the computer for the EA to run. This is less common for retail EAs but is used for very expensive institutional systems.
* **Online Validation:** The EA "phones home" to the developer's server upon startup or periodically to verify the license is still valid. This allows the developer to deactivate lost or stolen keys.
* **Code Obfuscation:** The MQL5 source code is scrambled to make it extremely difficult to reverse-engineer or "crack." While MQL5 compiles into an `.ex5` file (which is not human-readable), obfuscation adds an extra layer of security against decompilers.
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Understanding copyright is crucial for staying on the right side of the law and supporting developers.
* **You CANNOT:** Copy, share, or resell the `.ex5` file you purchased.
* **You CANNOT:** "Crack" or deactivate the license management system.
* **You CANNOT:** Use a "keygen" (key generator) to create fake license keys.
* **You CANNOT:** Reverse-engineer the compiled `.ex5` file to recreate the source code for the purpose of redistribution or creating a derivative work.
* **You CANNOT:** Share your unique license key with others.
**Engaging in these activities is software piracy.** It is illegal and violates the terms of service you implicitly agree to when purchasing the EA.
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Using a pirated EA is not only unethical but also extremely high-risk for you and your trading capital.
* **Malware & Viruses:** Cracked software is a common vector for malware. The "crack" could contain a trojan, keylogger, or ransomware that steals your brokerage login credentials, personal data, or locks your computer.
* **No Functionality Guarantee:** There is no guarantee the crack works correctly. The EA might place erroneous orders, fail to manage risk, or simply stop working after an update.
* **No Support or Updates:** You will receive zero support from the original developer. You will not get crucial updates that fix bugs or adapt to changing market conditions.
* **Legal Liability:** While rare for individual users, you could face legal action from the copyright holder.
* **Harm to the Community:** Piracy discourages talented developers from creating and improving high-quality products for everyone.
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To ensure a safe and successful experience with EAs:
1. **Buy from Reputable Sources:** Purchase directly from the developer's official website or well-known, curated marketplaces like MQL5.com.
2. **Understand the License Agreement:** Before buying, read the license terms. How many installations are allowed? Is it for a live account only, or can it be used on a demo? What happens if you change your VPS or computer?
3. **Use a VPS Wisely:** If you run the EA on a Virtual Private Server (VPS), ensure the license allows it and you know the activation process (often tied to the VPS's hardware ID).
4. **Keep Your License Key Secure:** Treat your license key like a password. Do not share it on the forum or in public chats.
5. **Report Suspicious Activity:** If you see someone on the forum or elsewhere offering a "free cracked version" of a commercial EA, **do not download it**. Report it to the forum moderators and notify the original developer.
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If you are a developer creating EAs:
* **Protect Your Work:** Invest in a robust licensing system. The MQL5 market has built-in protection, but third-party solutions offer more flexibility.
* **Be Clear About Your License:** Have a clear EULA (End User License Agreement) that states what users can and cannot do.
* **Support Your Users:** Good support builds trust and a positive reputation, which is your best defense against piracy.
Copyrighted Expert Advisors represent the intellectual property and hard work of developers. Respecting this copyright is not just a legal obligation; it's fundamental to maintaining a healthy, innovative, and secure trading ecosystem.
By understanding these principles, we can all contribute to making indigostrader.com a trusted resource for ethical and successful algorithmic trading.
**Happy (and responsible) trading!**
**The indigostrader.com Team**
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***Disclaimer:*** *This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions regarding software copyright, consult with a qualified legal professional.*