Algorithms in cTrader

cTrader Algo is the framework responsible for algorithmic trading and custom tools in cTrader. It allows you to develop and run algorithms, including cBots, indicators and plugins, using either C# or Python.

Note

This section is for traders and developers who want to build their own algorithms.

User guides

Basic flows on using existing algorithm products are available in seperate sections:

cBots – learn how to start a cBot.
Indicators – learn how to use an indicator.
Plugins – learn to how to access a plugin.

Algo types

cBots – trading bots or automated programs that you can customise to perform trading operations and various tasks on your behalf.
Custom indicators – analytical tools that process market data, identify patterns, display computed values on charts and assist with trading decisions.
Plugins – extensions or tools that enhance cTrader with new functionalities, connections and services in specific UI areas.

Tip

cTrader Store features dedicated sections for cBots, indicators and plugins, allowing you to get free or paid products, or sell your algos to millions of traders worldwide.

Requirements

cTrader supports algorithm development in:

C# – a powerful object-oriented language widely used in web applications, game development and enterprise applications.
Python – a popular beginner-friendly language widely used in data science and analysis, automation and web development.

To develop algos in cTrader, install .NET SDK and cTrader Windows or Mac, then sign in with your cTrader ID. If you want to write code and use algos in Python, you must install Python as well.

Note

You can write, test and compile algorithms directly in the built-in code editor or an external IDE.

Help structure

Documentation – general information on cTrader Algo, UI navigation, cBots, indicators, plugins and their operations.

How-tos – step-by-step guides and videos on performing popular actions, such as creating a trading robot, indicator or plugin, handling important trading operations and more.

API features – detailed articles on API features that allow you to achieve greater functionality within cBots, indicators and plugins.

Algo API references – complete library of Algo API information with descriptions for classes, events, methods, properties and other types.

Plugin SDK references – complete library of supported API methods for web applications, which transform into web-based plugins.

FAQ – answers to frequently asked questions about cTrader algorithms, popular algo features, related operations and more.