Problem: MetaTrader 5 shows "Cannot connect to server" error when trying to login.

Solution Steps:

1. Check Internet Connection: Ensure your internet is working properly. Try accessing other websites.
2. Verify Server Address: Go to Tools → Options → Server. Make sure the server address matches your broker's official server.
3. Check Firewall Settings: Temporarily disable Windows Firewall or add MetaTrader to exceptions.
4. Verify Login Credentials: Double-check your account number, password, and server name.
5. Try Different Server: Contact your broker for alternative server addresses.
6. Reinstall MetaTrader: As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the platform.

Prevention: Always keep your MetaTrader updated and maintain a stable internet connection.

Problem: Installation fails with error messages or gets stuck during installation.

Solution Steps:

1. Run as Administrator: Right-click the installer and select "Run as administrator".
2. Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable antivirus software during installation.
3. Check Disk Space: Ensure you have at least 500 MB free disk space.
4. Close Other Programs: Close all running applications before installation.
5. Clean Previous Installation: Use Windows "Add or Remove Programs" to uninstall any previous MetaTrader versions completely.
6. Download Fresh Installer: Download the latest installer from the official MetaTrader website.
7. Install in Safe Mode: If problems persist, try installing in Windows Safe Mode.

Common Error Codes:

• Error 5: Access Denied - Run as administrator
• Error 1603: Installation failed - Check disk space and permissions
• Error 1935: .NET Framework issue - Update .NET Framework

Problem: Charts are blank, not updating, or showing wrong price data.

Solution Steps:

1. Refresh Chart Data: Right-click on chart → Refresh or press F5.
2. Check Symbol: Verify you're viewing the correct trading symbol.
3. Update History: Go to Tools → History Center → Download missing history.
4. Check Internet Connection: Ensure stable connection for real-time data.
5. Restart MetaTrader: Close and reopen the platform.
6. Reset Chart Settings: Right-click → Properties → Reset to defaults.
7. Reinstall Indicators: If custom indicators aren't working, reinstall them.

For Historical Data Issues:

• Tools → Options → Charts → Enable "Show Ask line"
• Tools → History Center → Select symbol → Download
• Check broker's data feed availability

Problem: EA is attached to chart but not executing trades or showing errors.

Solution Steps:

1. Enable AutoTrading: Click "AutoTrading" button in toolbar (must be green).
2. Check EA Settings: Right-click EA → Properties → Verify all parameters are correct.
3. Check Expert Tab: Go to Tools → Options → Expert Advisors → Enable "Allow automated trading".
4. Review Journal: Check Tools → Journal for error messages.
5. Verify Account Type: Some EAs only work on specific account types (demo/live).
6. Check Market Hours: Ensure market is open and EA is set to trade during active hours.
7. Test on Demo First: Always test EAs on demo account before live trading.

Common EA Errors:

• Error 130: Invalid stops - Adjust stop loss/take profit
• Error 131: Invalid lot size - Check minimum lot size
• Error 146: Trading subsystem is busy - Wait and retry
• Error 10004: Requote - Normal market condition, EA will retry

Problem: MetaTrader disconnects frequently or connection is very slow.

Solution Steps:

1. Check Internet Speed: Test your connection speed. Minimum 1 Mbps recommended.
2. Use Wired Connection: Switch from WiFi to Ethernet cable for stability.
3. Close Background Apps: Close bandwidth-intensive applications.
4. Change Server: Try connecting to a different broker server (closer to your location).
5. Update Network Drivers: Ensure network adapter drivers are up to date.
6. Check Router Settings: Enable QoS (Quality of Service) for MetaTrader traffic.
7. Contact ISP: If problems persist, contact your internet service provider.

Problem: Custom indicator doesn't show on chart or shows errors.

Solution Steps:

1. Check File Location: Ensure .ex5 or .mq5 file is in MQL5/Indicators folder.
2. Compile Indicator: Open in MetaEditor (F4) → Compile (F7) to check for errors.
3. Restart MetaTrader: Close and reopen platform after installing indicator.
4. Check Compatibility: Ensure indicator is compatible with your MT5 version.
5. Verify Permissions: Check that indicator has proper file permissions.
6. Check Journal: Review Tools → Journal for compilation errors.