Email alerts in MetaTrader 4 (MT4) allow traders to receive notifications about market movements, trade executions, or custom conditions directly to their email inbox. Setting up email alerts ensures you stay informed about trading activities even when away from your trading terminal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up email alerts in MT4.

Steps to Set Up Email Alerts in MT4

1. Access the Email Settings

• Open your MT4 platform.
• Go to Tools > Options or press Ctrl + O.
• Navigate to the Email tab in the Options window.

2. Enable Email Notifications

• Check the box labeled Enable.
• This activates the email notification feature.

3. Configure SMTP Server Settings
You need to input your email provider’s SMTP server details. These include:

• SMTP Server: The outgoing mail server address (e.g., smtp.gmail.com for Gmail).
• SMTP Login: Your email address (e.g., youremail@gmail.com).
• SMTP Password: The password for your email account.

4. Set Sender and Recipient Details

• From: Enter the email address that will send the notifications.
• To: Enter the email address where you want to receive the alerts (this can be the same as the sender or a different email).

5. Example SMTP Settings for Common Email Providers

• Gmail:
  • SMTP Server: smtp.gmail.com
  • SMTP Port: 587
  • Encryption: TLS
• Outlook/Hotmail:
  • SMTP Server: smtp.office365.com
  • SMTP Port: 587
  • Encryption: TLS
• Yahoo Mail:
  • SMTP Server: smtp.mail.yahoo.com
  • SMTP Port: 465
  • Encryption: SSL

6. Test the Email Configuration

• Click the Test button in the Email settings window.
• If configured correctly, you’ll receive a test email at the recipient address.
• Check the Journal tab in the Terminal window for confirmation or error messages.

7. Set Up Alerts to Trigger Emails

• Open a chart and right-click anywhere on it.
• Select Trading > Alert or go to the Alerts tab in the Terminal window.
• Create a new alert by right-clicking in the Alerts tab and selecting Create.
• Configure the alert parameters:
  • Symbol: Choose the instrument to monitor.
  • Condition: Set the trigger condition (e.g., Bid price >= specified level).
  • Action: Select Email to send the alert as an email.
  • Message: Write a custom message to include in the email notification.

8. Save and Monitor Alerts

• Once set up, alerts will automatically trigger emails when the specified conditions are met.
• You can manage or disable alerts from the Alerts tab.

Tips for Setting Up Email Alerts

• Use a Secure App Password: If using Gmail or other providers with two-factor authentication, generate an app-specific password to use with MT4.
• Avoid Overloading Alerts: Set alerts strategically to avoid receiving too many emails.
• Test Regularly: Periodically test your email configuration to ensure continued functionality.
• Enable Logging: Check the Journal tab for errors related to email alerts and address issues promptly.

FAQs

Can I use any email provider for MT4 email alerts?
Yes, as long as the provider supports SMTP for outgoing emails.

Why am I not receiving email alerts?
Check for errors in the Journal tab. Common issues include incorrect SMTP settings, port numbers, or authentication failures.

Can I use the same email for the sender and recipient?
Yes, the sender and recipient can be the same email address.

Do email alerts work if MT4 is closed?
No, MT4 must remain open and connected to the internet for email alerts to work.

How many alerts can I set up?
You can set up multiple alerts, limited only by platform performance and system resources.

Can I customise the alert message?
Yes, you can write a custom message when creating an alert.

Are email alerts free in MT4?
Yes, email alerts are a built-in feature of MT4 and do not incur additional costs.

What is the difference between email and push notifications in MT4?
Email notifications are sent to your email inbox, while push notifications are sent to the MT4 mobile app.

Can I use email alerts for trade execution updates?
Yes, you can configure alerts for trade executions or custom trading conditions.

How secure is the email feature in MT4?
It is secure as long as you use encryption (TLS or SSL) and a secure password for your email account.

Conclusion

Setting up email alerts in MT4 is a simple yet powerful way to stay updated on market movements and trading activities. By following these steps, you can ensure that important notifications reach you promptly, even when you’re away from your trading terminal. Unlock your full potential with our expert-led trading courses. Gain insights, learn winning strategies, and take control of your trading journey today.