By Jeremy Watts
Active Forex traders who currently use MetaTrader 4 along with an Expert Advisor software package, but who do not use a dedicated MetaTrader server, have probably already encountered problems with data stream disruption, which can impact substantially on their trading. Disruption of data while trading Forex can be catastrophic, no matter whether you are trading manually or using an automated trading robot. In fact, this is regarded as being the number one complaint amongst traders.
When the data stream to the MetaTrader 4 terminal is interrupted, the automated trading software has to re-evaluate the data from the point of renewal. This can affect the entire trading process, leading to results that may be disappointing from software that should otherwise be, in theory, very profitable.
There is a simple solution and that is to have your automated trading hosted by a dedicated MetaTrader server. Dedicated servers offer constant connectivity, allowing your MetaTrader 4 platform to run much more efficiently, even with multiple Expert Advisors running.
A dedicated MetaTrader 4 server is a computer located in a data centre which traders can access online from their own PCs. Also known as a Virtual Private Server (VPS), you can take advantage of some great features that they offer which will greatly enhance your automated Forex trading experience.
For example, with a MetaTrader 4 server, you can safely run your MetaTrader and other automated programs without risk of an internet outage. Dedicated server providers are normally equipped with back-up power and are in extremely secure locations to ensure that your data remains intact.
Additionally, a dedicated server service allows you to back-up and store all of your important files on the server. You can also take advantage of around-the-clock access and market monitoring capabilities to help you become an overall better trader.
Furthermore, you can gain remote access to your server using Windows Remote Administrator or Remote Desktop Connection, which means that you can take the power of your MetaTrader server with you whenever and wherever you travel. Also, using the same applications, you can get together with other traders to collaborate and exchange trading strategies.
Many online Forex brokers that support MetaTrader also offer VPS hosting packages, although a number of MetaTrader servers can be found online that specialise in Forex hosting. Before you start shopping, though, be sure you are aware of what exactly you require.
Of there several key factors to consider, the most important are considered to be bandwidth, RAM and storage space, keeping in mind that the more you trade, the more you will need, however price should also play a large part in deciding upon a server.
Server services vary in price, from around 20 pounds per month for starters to well over 1,000 per month for power traders (or heavy users). If you are very active and run multiple expert advisors, or even an entire trading company, a larger dedicated server package is without doubt the most viable solution. Nevertheless, for most beginner and intermediate traders, a mid-sized server is usually sufficient and will cost, on average, 50 pounds per month.
Perhaps the most important feature to look for in a dedicated MetaTrader server service is dependability. You should make sure that the service you choose is highly rated by other Forex traders since you want your automatic trading systems running smoothly at all times to ensure maximum trade execution performance and profitability. Remember, the point of switching to a MetaTrader server in the first place is to increase reliability, not to decrease it and you should be able to rely on it to assist with your trading needs, regardless of how regular they may be.
ODL Markets is a no dealing desk forex broker offering foreign exchange trading, spread betting and CFDs through the Metatrader software.