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Algorithms in cTrader

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

Note

While new cBots, indicators and plugins can be created only in cTrader Windows or Mac, existing cBots can be started in Cloud in any cTrader application.

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.

As WebView plugins constitute an entirely different algorithm type unrelated to cTrader Algo API, they are covered separately.

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.

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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 and run 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 specific 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.

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

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