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Installing cTrader Algos

After you obtain an algorithm, you will need to install and start it immediately to avoid missing out on market opportunities.

Downloading An Algo File

There are several ways to obtain an .algo file.

  • You can download algorithms from the official cTrader website. Choose from a variety of cBots, indicators and plugins to find what you like.
  • Obtain .algo files directly from developers via third-party distribution channels (e.g., messengers, websites, etc).

Note

We recommend you obtain algorithms from secure and trusted sources only, such as cTrader Store.

Launching the Algo File

To add a new algorithm to cTrader, open the .algo file you have downloaded. You should see a notification stating that the algorithm is being installed. What happens next depends on the algorithm type:

  • A cBot causes the 'Start cBot' window to appear, and cTrader automatically opens the 'Algo' app. In the window, you can choose to start the cBot in Cloud or locally.

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  • An indicator with its default parameters is immediately added to the active chart. cTrader opens the 'Trade' app.
  • A plugin is added to the cTrader UI. If the plugin requires elevated access rights, you will see a permission dialogue.

Note

Some cBots, indicators and plugins might prompt you to allow them to add, install or start other algorithms.

With enabled synchronisation in cTrader, the new algorithm will be uploaded to Cloud automatically with you as an owner.

Managing the New Algo

To locate the algorithm, switch to the 'Algo' application in cTrader and search for it. You will manage to perform all standard actions with the algorithm, including creating new instances (for cBots only) and adding indicators to new trading charts.

Source Code

Depending on the access rights set by the algorithm developer, you may or may not see its source code.

Using Plugins

As plugins can only ever have one active instance, using them is a bit different compared to cBots and indicators. When you launch a new plugin from an .algo file, the instance is automatically added to all cTrader UI areas that the plugin developer has chosen to display it in. If you want to stop an installed plugin from being displayed, go to the 'Settings' window, switch to the 'Plugin' section and disable the plugin. If you want to delete an installed plugin, click the bin icon.