MQL4 is a powerful programming language used for creating custom indicators, expert advisors, and scripts in the MetaTrader 4 platform. While the executable files are all that’s necessary to use an EA or indicator, traders may want to access the original source code in MQ4 format for various reasons. That’s where decompiling comes in. In this article, we’ll explore the process of decompiling an EX4 file to MQ4 format, when to use decompiling, and some tips for using decompiling tools responsibly and ethically.
Please note that this article is for informative purposes only and does not endorse the decompilation of files or offer decompilation services. Decompilation can violate MetaQuotes Software Corp’s intellectual property and copyright laws. Therefore, we advise readers to refrain from contacting us for any decompilation services or related requests.
What is Decompiling?
Decompiling is the process of converting a compiled binary file, like an EX4 file, back into its original source code. The resulting code may not be perfect, but it can still be useful for gaining insights into how a particular indicator or expert advisor works.
MQL4 and EX4/MQ4 Formats
MQL4 is a programming language used for creating custom indicators, expert advisors, and scripts in the MetaTrader 4 platform. MQL4 code is compiled into EX4 format, which is the machine-readable format that is executed by the MetaTrader 4 platform. There are two file formats in MetaTrader 4: ‘.ex4’ for the executable files and ‘.mq4’ for the source code. The MT4 platform only uses the executable files, so only these files are necessary to use an EA, an indicator, or any other MT4 program. The source code is only used by a programmer to make corrections, adjustments, modifications, or improvements in the MT4 program.
When to Use Decompiling
Traders may want to decompile an EX4 file into MQ4 format for various reasons, such as modifying the code or understanding how a particular expert advisor or indicator works. Common reasons include modifying, correcting, or improving an MT4 program, recovering a lost source code, learning MQL4 programming, or converting an MT4 program to MT5.
Using a Decompiler Tool
To decompile an EX4 file to MQ4 format, traders need to use a decompiler tool. There are several decompiling tools available online, but it’s important to choose a reliable and trustworthy one to ensure the safety of your computer and the quality of the resulting code. However, it’s important to note that decompiling can violate MetaQuotes Software Corp‘s copyrighted works and intellectual property, so it’s important to use decompiling tools for legal and ethical purposes only.
Additional Tips
Traders don’t need the source code (mq4 file) to build an MT4 Expert Advisor (EA) based on an indicator. In fact, an MT4 EA only uses the compiled file (ex4 extension). Additionally, a skilled MT4 programmer can develop a new indicator that gets the signals from the original indicator and sends alerts and notifications whenever a signal is triggered, even without the mq4 file.
Final Thoughts
Decompiling an EX4 file into MQ4 format can be a useful tool for traders who want to modify or understand the inner workings of a particular expert advisor or indicator. However, traders should use decompiling tools for legal and ethical purposes only, and they should be aware that decompiling may not always produce perfect or readable code. It’s also important to have a good understanding of programming principles to be able to make sense of the decompiled code. By using decompiling tools responsibly and with caution, traders can gain valuable insights into their MT4 programs and improve their trading strategies.
Davon Wagner
Hi i Need an indicator decompiled, please note the indicator is not mine however there are a couple of errors within the code when alerts come on, it signifies the incorrect divergence, i cant find the mql4 file anywhere online and therefore need your assistance if possible.
Please let me know if its possible.
Isaac
Hi man
I cam help you with this
You can contact me at Decompiler_dev on telegram
Sitali Sinamuwi
Hello, am glad to have found this website I ll appreciate it if you could assist me to decompile an Mt4 executable file, as I was made to pay for a service I never got, if anything having the source code would be of much help.
Alexander
I want to convert the EX4 file to an editable MQ4 file and I don’t have the source code. Guide me on how can I convert without a source file.
Tina Baneries
We can’t forget that Metatrader can decompile even the files compiled from the Cloud Protector because they have the keys. So, in case someone produce something really interesting Metatrader can always know how it was done.
My opinion is that developers should use their own website to sell worthwhile products and not lodge products with Metatrader. This will also allow the use of .dll and customized protection.
jegouzo
are yoy able de decrypt the prodected source code of a mql5 EA ?? to crack it
[email protected]
contact me if you are able
Katlego Thomas
Can you make a repainting indicator not to repaint anymore
Barmenteros FX Staff
Sorry but that’s not possible. Regards
Dunu kenechukwu
Hi thnks for the idea
I have a custom indicator I which to build an EA with ,but it’s an Ex4 file
Pls what do I do?
Barmenteros FX Staff
Hi. You can build an EA based on the indicator no matter if it’s only an ex4 file. At least we can do it. You can send us your request using the form here. Best regards
samuel
Hi,
decompiling to me is of interest because in case we bought a product, as we don’t have the source code, we are not protected against the possibility of the software not to work anymore in the (sometimes near) future. That is very annoying and stress favoring. When we are satisfied by a product we want us to be able to continue using it. Because of MT4 and other evolutions, some programs can cease to work suddenly. In addition, we may want to correct or modify a bought program, and the source code is needed in this case. In any of these uses, the intention is to properly speaking “appropiate” the work done by others. I have never used a decompiling service but if I had a software able to ecomplie ex4 into mq4, I would definitly use it. In order to have the source code if needed one day (be in peace), or to correct programs I have used (creative process).
Barmenteros FX Staff
Hi Samuel. Thanks for your interesting comment. Regards
Massimiliano Papera
I totally agree
Israel
I agree
Barmenteros FX Staff
Please, send us an email to [email protected]
Israel
I will,
Because i have some question and i need some help
Resource
Some EA required that PC and EA shoul be switched on with internet connection during trading hour; If i’m using VPS Do i need to swithced my pc on with internet connection before EA will be taking trade? OR the EA will be taking trade for me even if i’m off line through the help of VPS
Please, send reply to my e-mail address.
Thanks