MT4 error 4109 is the "trade is not allowed" error. It almost always means automated (live) trading is disabled somewhere — the AutoTrading button, the terminal's Expert Advisors options, or the EA's own settings — so MetaTrader 4 blocks the Expert Advisor from placing an order. Here's how to turn it back on, step by step.
This one usually shows in the Experts tab (press Ctrl+T), since it's an Expert Advisor that hit the block.
2026.06.04 08:15:42 MyEA EURUSD,M15: OrderSend failed
2026.06.04 08:15:42 MyEA EURUSD,M15: error 4109 — trade is not allowed
What error 4109 means
MetaTrader 4 has several switches that must all be on before an Expert Advisor can trade with real orders. If any one
of them is off, the EA's OrderSend is refused and MT4 returns error 4109. It's a safety design — the
platform won't let code trade your account unless you've explicitly allowed it.
What causes error 4109
- AutoTrading is off — the toolbar button is red.
- Options block it — "Allow automated trading" is unticked in Tools ▸ Options ▸ Expert Advisors.
- The EA isn't allowed to trade — its Common tab "Allow live trading" box is unchecked.
- Read-only login — you're using the investor password, which can't trade.
- Broker restriction — the account or symbol doesn't permit automated trading.
How to fix error 4109
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Turn on the AutoTrading button
Click the AutoTrading button in the MT4 toolbar so it shows green/active. When it's red, no Expert Advisor or script can place trades, and you'll get error 4109.
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Allow automated trading in Options
Go to
Tools ▸ Options ▸ Expert Advisorsand tick Allow automated trading (called "Allow live trading" in older builds). Click OK. -
Allow live trading in the EA's settings
Open the EA's settings (right-click the chart ▸ Expert Advisors ▸ Properties, or re-attach it), go to the Common tab, and tick Allow live trading / 'Allow Algo Trading'. A smiley face on the chart means it's active.
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Check you're on the trading password and your broker allows EAs
If you logged in with the investor (read-only) password, you can't trade — log in with your master password. Also confirm your broker and account type permit automated trading.
When an EA can trade, you'll see a small smiley face in the top-right of the chart. A sad face or a "✕" means automated trading is blocked — work back through the steps above until the smiley appears. Always test an EA in the Strategy Tester and on a demo first.
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⚠ Trading forex and CFDs is high-risk and most retail traders lose money. This is not financial advice.
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Related troubleshooting
See the full MT4 error codes list, or other common ones: invalid stops (130), not enough money (134), and off quotes (136). Setting up automation? See how to install an EA.
Frequently asked questions
What does error 4109 mean in MT4?
Error 4109 is 'trade is not allowed'. It means automated or live trading is switched off somewhere — the AutoTrading button, the terminal's Expert Advisors options, or the EA's own 'Allow live trading' setting — so MT4 blocks the Expert Advisor from placing trades.
How do I fix error 4109?
Turn on the AutoTrading button in the toolbar, tick 'Allow automated trading' under Tools ▸ Options ▸ Expert Advisors, and tick 'Allow live trading' on the Common tab of the EA's settings. Then check you're logged in with your master (not investor) password and that your broker permits EAs.
Why is the AutoTrading button red?
A red AutoTrading button means automated trading is disabled for the whole terminal — click it once to turn it green. If it won't stay on, the cause is usually the Options ▸ Expert Advisors setting, or you're logged in with a read-only investor password.
Can error 4109 happen on manual trades?
Yes — if you're logged in with the investor (read-only) password, the account can't place any trades, manual or automated, which can surface as a not-allowed error. Log in with your master password to trade.
Does my broker need to allow EAs?
Yes. Most MT4 brokers allow Expert Advisors, but some accounts or instruments are restricted. If every setting in the platform is correct and you still can't trade, confirm with your broker that automated trading is enabled for your account.
Trading foreign exchange and contracts for difference (CFDs) carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Leverage can work against you as well as for you. You could lose some or all of your deposited funds; do not trade with money you cannot afford to lose. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Nothing on MT4Download.com is financial, investment, or trading advice. Consider your circumstances and seek independent advice if needed.