How to install a robot on ProRealTime: complete guide

Installing a robot on ProRealTime may seem technical, but with the right method, it’s child’s play. Whether you’re a novice or an existing user of platforms such as MetaTrader (MT4/MT5), this guide will take you from module activation through to execution in real-life conditions. We will cover :

• importing an .itf file,
• a comparison between creating without code and programming with ProBuilder,
• the exclusive benefits of server-side.

For greater clarity, you’ll also see how to test the robot with ProBacktest, in PaperTrading mode or in real trading. Finally, we’ll include practical advice, feedback and useful links to help you go even further.

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Preparing your ProRealTime trading environment

Activate ProRealTime and ProOrder via your broker

If you use IG or another partner broker, you must first activate the ProRealTime platform, then the automatic ProOrder module. At IG, this is done from your client area: go to ‘ProRealTime’, activate the platform, then click on ‘activate’ ProOrder (generally requires a minimum number of orders per month).

Download and configure ProRealTime

Install ProRealTime (Complete or Web version depending on your use). Once activated, log in via your broker. You will then be able to access ProBacktest and AutoTrading (via ProOrder).

Import or create a robot (.itf)

Import an existing robot

Robots on ProRealTime are distributed in the form of .itf files. To integrate them: click on “Import”, select the .itf file and confirm.

1. In ProRealTime, go to ” View ” then ” Trading system ” then“ProBacktest & Automatic Trading tab“,
2. Click on “Import”, select the .itf file and confirm.

The system will appear in your list (must be tested before actual use)

Create your own robot without coding

Access the chart for your instrument, go to View > ProBacktest & Automatic Trading tab > “Create”.

In “assisted creation” mode, you define your input, output, stop and target conditions via the intuitive interface, then automatically generate the code.

Creating with programming (ProBuilder)

For greater flexibility, opt for ProBuilder, a simple language inspired by BASIC. The integrated editor suggests functions, detects errors in real time and colours your code. Ideal for defining advanced strategies or integrating optimisable variables.

Testing and running your robot on PRT

Backtesting with ProBacktest

Once created or imported, switch to ProBacktest mode:

• select historical period,
• initial capital,
• brokerage fees,
• maximum position size,
• then launch it.

You get a performance curve, a history of orders/positions and valuable statistics (gain/period, drawdown, gain/loss ratio, etc.).

PaperTrading simulation

Use PaperTrading mode to simulate real-life conditions without the risks. The robot executes virtual orders, allowing you to analyse your own reactions to automatic decisions before switching to live trading.

Launch real trading

Send your system to ProOrder via “Prepare for automatic trading”. In the ProOrder window, set the options: management of stop positions, daily order limit, validity date. Also set the maximum position size, then start. The robot switches to “Running” status.

Monitoring and adapting robots to market conditions

Tracking performance

In ProOrder, monitor the profit/loss curve, list orders and positions, and access the detailed report for each robot. This information is essential for analysing areas for improvement.

Refine and optimise

Modify your robot, optimise the parameters (e.g. moving average period), test again via ProBacktest or PaperTrading. Each version is logged with a version number for easy comparison.

MT4 vs MT5 vs ProRealTime: which platform should you choose?

MT4/MT5 vs ProRealTime: MT4/MT5 often require a local server or VPS for automated trading. ProRealTime works via server-side, without depending on your computer, reducing the risk of Internet outages or crashes.

User feedback: many traders appreciate the stability of the server-side to execute ultra-reactive intraday scalping strategies.

Practical advice: start with small position sizes, set a maximum drawdown, test with PaperTrading for several days, then gradually switch to real trading.

User experience feedback

Switching from manual to automated trading with ProRealTime is often a decisive step. Here is some feedback frequently shared by traders who have installed and used robots on the platform:

• Easy to install: quick, intuitive .itf file import. Assisted creation” mode for beginners with no programming skills.
• Server-side reliability : Execution of orders directly on ProRealTime servers, without dependence on a PC or VPS. Reduced risks associated with Internet outages or power failures.
• Essential test phase: Backtesting gives an initial idea, but is not enough. PaperTrading is essential to validate the strategy in real conditions.
• Emotional management and discipline: The robot allows you to follow a strategy without stress or impulsive decisions. A period of psychological adaptation is required to learn to “trust” the algorithm.
• Limitations and possible improvements: Robots do not adjust to exceptional events (news, extreme volatility) on their own. Regular monitoring recommended, with periodic adjustments to parameters.