You don't open an MT4 account from MetaTrader 4 itself — you open it at a broker, who gives you the login details to sign in to the platform. You can open a free demo in seconds, or a live account that requires identity verification. Here's the whole process.
How to open an account
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Choose a regulated broker
An MT4 account is a trading account at a broker, accessed through MT4 — so first pick a regulated broker. See how to verify one.
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Register and verify your identity (KYC)
Sign up, then for a live account complete KYC (photo ID + proof of address). A demo needs no verification.
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Pick an account type
Choose the account type (standard, raw/ECN, cent) and your base currency.
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Get your login details and sign in to MT4
The broker gives you a login number, password, and server. In MT4,
File ▸ Login to Trade Accountand enter all three.
Demo vs live account
A demo account uses virtual money on live prices — instant, free, and the smart place to learn. A live account uses real money and needs KYC verification. Most people should spend real time on a demo before going live, and only fund a live account with money they can afford to lose.
Common account types
- Standard — commission-free with the spread built in; the usual beginner choice.
- Raw / ECN — tighter spreads plus a commission; suits active traders. See ECN.
- Cent — balances shown in cents, so you trade tiny sizes while learning.
Funding a live account puts real money at risk — trading is high-risk and most retail traders lose money. Verify your broker is properly regulated first, start on a demo, and never deposit more than you can afford to lose. Nothing here is financial advice.
Open your MT4 account
XM lets you open a free demo or a live account from a $5 minimum, with MetaTrader 4 on desktop, mobile, and WebTrader.
⚠ Trading forex and CFDs is high-risk and most retail traders lose money. This is not financial advice.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you open a broker account through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Related
Next: deposit money, then log in to MT4 and learn how to use it. Prefer to practise first? Open a demo. Choosing a broker? See the best MT4 brokers.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an MT4 account?
You open one through a broker, not from MetaTrader 4 itself. Choose a regulated broker, register, verify your identity (KYC) for a live account, pick an account type, and the broker gives you a login number, password and server to sign in to MT4. A free demo account skips the verification and works instantly.
Is an MT4 account free?
Opening the account and using MetaTrader 4 are free. A demo account costs nothing and needs no deposit. For a live account you only pay when you fund it and trade — the platform and the account itself carry no charge.
Do I need to verify my identity to open an MT4 account?
For a live account, yes — brokers are required to verify you (Know Your Customer), typically with a photo ID and a proof of address. A demo account needs no verification, so you can start practising immediately.
What's a login number and server in MT4?
When you open a trading account, the broker issues a numeric login, a password, and a server name (which identifies the broker's specific server). You enter all three in MT4 under File ▸ Login to Trade Account to connect. Keep the password private.
Can I open more than one MT4 account?
Yes. You can hold several accounts — for example a demo and a live, or different account types — and switch between them in MT4. Many traders keep a demo open for testing alongside their live 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.