The Cause of MetaTrader 5 Connection Issues

MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is one of the most powerful and popular trading platforms in the world, which has attracted significant attention due to offering a wide range of services and tools to traders worldwide and collaborating with many brokers.

However, like any other software, MetaTrader 5 sometimes encounters issues that can disrupt users and have a disruptive impact on trading accounts. Therefore, it is essential for a trader to be familiar with these problems and how to resolve them in order to maintain their trading process without prolonging the interruption of the MetaTrader 5 connection.

Wrong Server Selection

One of the most common reasons for the failure to connect to MetaTrader 5 is the selection of the wrong server. At this point, most traders choose the server for their demo account or even another unrelated server instead of the one corresponding to their live account. Alternatively, the server name entered does not match the one provided by the broker.

Solution

To resolve this issue, you first need to get the exact and correct server name from your broker. This information is usually available in the welcome email, your broker’s user panel, or their official website. Then, on the MT5 login page, select the correct server. If your server is not listed, you can update the server list by selecting the “Rescan Servers” option so that the correct server appears.

Mismatch of System Time and Date with Calendar

This issue can always cause problems in software systems if the system’s time, date, or time zone is not set correctly, leading to a mismatch with the broker’s server. This can lead to security errors such as SSL certificate rejection, thus preventing MT5 from connecting to the server. Most trading systems are dependent on exact timing, and any discrepancy between your system’s time and the broker’s server time can disrupt the MetaTrader 5 connection.

Solution

To fix this issue, you should set your computer’s time and date to automatically synchronize with the standard time. On Windows, you can go to Date and Time settings and activate the “Set time automatically” option. Also, ensure that the system’s time zone matches your geographic location.

Blocked Ports for MetaTrader 5 due to Internet or Firewall

MetaTrader 5 generally uses specific ports, such as port 433 or port 1950, to establish a connection with the servers and perform SSL/TLS encryption to establish a connection between the user (trader) and the server. Sometimes, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or a network firewall at your workplace or home may block these ports. In such cases, the software cannot send or receive data from the server, and the connection is lost.

Solution

If you are sure the problem is related to the ports, you can try using a different network or activate a VPN to bypass ISP restrictions. You can also check your system’s firewall settings and add MT5 to the list of allowed programs. If possible, contact your ISP support to ensure the necessary ports are open.

SSL Certificate is Invalid or Expired

An SSL certificate is a security protocol confirmation that ensures encrypted communication to prevent unauthorized access to users’ personal information. If the SSL certificate has expired or is invalid for any reason, MetaTrader 5 will prevent the connection to avoid exposing users’ information.
It is worth noting that this issue can sometimes occur even if the SSL certificate is valid, and it could be caused by problems with the broker’s server or due to the outdated version of MetaTrader on the user’s side.

Solution

First, make sure that your MT5 software is updated to the latest version to support the newest security standards. You can also contact your broker’s support team and inquire about the status of the server’s security certificates. In rare cases, you may need to wait a few hours or days for the broker to resolve the server issue.

Incorrect Installation of MetaTrader 5

Sometimes, during the initial installation of the software or after updating a previous version, some MetaTrader 5 files may get corrupted or have hidden issues, such as being infected with viruses. This can prevent MetaTrader from running properly and connecting to the server.

Solution

If the issue of not being able to connect to the software is not caused by any of the aforementioned reasons, you should suspect incorrect installation or corrupted files in the software installation folder. It is best to completely uninstall MetaTrader 5 from your system and reinstall it by downloading the software again from the official MetaTrader website or your broker’s website. After reinstalling, check if the connection issue has been resolved.

Antivirus or Internal Firewall Blocking MetaTrader 5

In some cases, antivirus software or internal firewalls mistakenly identify MetaTrader 5 as a suspicious program and block its access to the internet. This problem is particularly common when the antivirus settings are very strict by default, or if the executable file of the software (such as terminal64.exe) has been added to the antivirus’s blacklist.

Solution

To resolve this issue, simply go into the antivirus or firewall settings and check if MetaTrader 5 is in the list of allowed apps or add it to this list. Alternatively, you can temporarily disable your antivirus and check again whether the connection is successful.

Broker Server Issue

It is not always the case that connection issues with MetaTrader 5 are caused by problems on the user’s system. Sometimes, temporary disruptions in the broker’s server, due to various factors such as server maintenance, server updates, or even increased website traffic during certain hours, may cause connection issues.

Solution

If you are sure the issue of not connecting to MetaTrader is not due to any of the reasons mentioned above, it is best to contact your broker’s support team to inquire about the server status. If you use several accounts or servers with the same broker, you can check whether only one specific server is down or if it is a widespread issue. In some cases, you may just need to wait a few minutes or hours for the servers to return to a stable state.

Network Restrictions

Connection issues with MetaTrader 5 due to network restrictions are not very common but should still be considered as one of the possible causes. This is especially true if you are using a network from another organization, such as a workplace, university, or public networks like cafes or hotels. This typically happens due to internal policies of that network, preventing MetaTrader from sending or receiving necessary data from the server.

Solution

If you suspect the connection issue is due to network restrictions, you can try using your mobile hotspot, a VPN, or IP changing software to establish a proper connection and bypass local restrictions. Alternatively, you may be able to coordinate with the IT department of the organization that imposed the network restrictions to request access to the required ports.

Cache Overflow

Over time, and with continued use of MetaTrader 5, the software’s cache or temporary files accumulate unnecessarily, causing errors in the system. This can lead to performance slowdowns or disruptions in the connection between the software and the broker’s servers.

Solution

We are all familiar with regularly clearing cache files from browsers or communication software, and this habit positively impacts software performance. MetaTrader 5 is no exception. Simply go to the software’s installation folder and delete the Cache, logs, bases, and history folders.
Before clearing the MetaTrader 5 cache, make sure to back up your important data and store it in a safe folder. After clearing the cache, check if the connection issue has been resolved.

Simultaneous Use of Software Versions

Some traders use multiple trading accounts on different brokers simultaneously, using different versions of the software. Sometimes, due to improper management and conflicts between these platforms, one or all of them may experience connection issues with MetaTrader 5.

Solution

If you are using multiple versions of MetaTrader, make sure that each version is installed in a separate folder, and their executable files are not shared. It’s best to use separate folders and clearly label each version of MetaTrader. If you are experiencing connection issues, temporarily close other MetaTrader versions and run only one to test if the issue persists.

Trader’s Internet Disconnection or Slowness

Sometimes, the issue is not with MetaTrader or the server, but with the user’s internet connection. Unstable or very slow internet can cause delays or errors when receiving responses from the server, resulting in “No Connection” or “Invalid Account” errors.

Solution

To ensure your internet connection is stable, first, check other websites or test your speed on sites like Speed Test. If the internet is slow, you can reset your modem or connect to a different network (such as a mobile hotspot). Also, avoid using multiple bandwidth intensive applications (like downloading or streaming video) simultaneously.

Incorrect Account Information Entry

One of the most common reasons for MetaTrader connection failure is entering incorrect login information. A single incorrect digit in the account number, password, or even selecting the wrong account type (live or demo) can cause the system to reject your credentials and fail to establish a connection.

Solution

Always keep your account information in a secure and protected location, and ensure that it is correct when entering it. Double check the selected account type (demo or real) and make sure that the caps lock is either on or off as needed. It is generally recommended to copy and paste your information directly to avoid typing errors.

Connection Issue with MetaTrader 5 Due to Proxy Settings Errors

MetaTrader settings allow the use of a proxy server for connection. If these settings are not configured correctly or the entered information is incorrect, the connection to the broker’s server will be lost. Typically, this type of setting is only used in specific cases or within organizational networks.

Solution

To check for errors in the proxy settings, follow this path and resolve any issues:
Tools > Options > Server, then check the Proxy Server section. If you are using a regular home or mobile internet connection, this option should generally be disabled. If you must use a proxy, ensure the information is entered accurately and completely, or seek assistance from your network’s IT department.

Connection Failure Due to Excessive Symbol Loading

When too many symbols are loaded in the Market Watch window, MetaTrader may experience high pressure during startup and fail to properly synchronize data with the server. This issue is more noticeable on weaker systems or those with low RAM and can lead to connection failures or delays in loading.

Solution

To reduce the pressure, especially on weaker systems, simply right click on the symbol and select the “Hide” option. You can also reduce the load on your system by clicking the clock icon at the bottom of the software and closing unnecessary charts.

Sanction Limitations

Some brokers, due to legal reasons or internal policies, restrict access to their servers for users from certain countries or IP addresses. In such cases, even with the correct information entered, the connection to the server may not be established or may repeatedly disconnect.

Solution

Using such brokers is generally not recommended, and it is strongly advised to choose brokers without sanction related restrictions. Circumventing these restrictions could lead to your trading account being closed and your funds being confiscated if the broker discovers.

Common Reasons for MetaTrader 5 Connection Failure and Suggested Solutions

Row	Connection Issue Cause	Brief Explanation	Quick and Practical Solution
1	Incorrect Server Selection	The wrong server or incorrect server name entered.	Obtain the correct server from your broker and use the “Rescan Servers” option.
2	System Date and Time Mismatch	The system time is not synchronized with the server.	Enable automatic time setting and check the time zone.
3	Port Blocking by Internet or Firewall	ISP or firewall blocks communication ports.	Use a VPN or alternative network, check firewall settings.
4	Expired or Invalid SSL Certificate	Security error in the server connection certificate.	Update MT5, contact broker support, wait for server issue resolution.
5	Incorrect Installation or Software File Corruption	Incomplete installation or corrupt files.	Completely uninstall MT5 and reinstall from the official source.
6	Antivirus or Internal Firewall Blocking	MetaTrader is blocked by antivirus or firewall.	Add MT5 to the allowed list or temporarily disable the antivirus.
7	Broker Server Issue	Disconnection or disruption in the broker’s server.	Contact broker support and check the status of other accounts.
8	Network Internet Restrictions	Connection from restricted networks (e.g., workplace, university).	Use a hotspot, VPN, or coordinate with the IT department.
9	Software Cache Overflow	Increased temporary files causing errors.	Clean up Cache, logs, history folders after taking a backup.
10	Simultaneous Running of Multiple MT5 Versions	Conflict between multiple installed versions.	Install in separate folders and run only one version at a time.
11	Internet Outage or Slow Speed	Unstable internet connection.	Check with Speedtest, reset the modem, or connect to another network.
12	Incorrect Account Information Entry	Mistake in password, account number, or account type.	Double check login information, use copy/paste, check Caps Lock.
13	Incorrect Proxy Settings in Software	Incorrect proxy information or unnecessary activation.	Disable proxy settings via Tools > Options > Server.
14	Overloading Symbols in Market Watch	Too many symbols causing pressure and disruption.	Hide extra symbols, close unnecessary charts.
15	Sanction Restrictions	Brokers blocks access for certain countries.	Use a broker without restrictions or check the broker’s exact policies; bypassing sanctions can risk account blockage.