From sign-up to first backtest

Six steps from installing QuantLab to reviewing your first MT5 backtest in the desktop app. Setup and test times depend on your PC and the price history MT5 needs to download.

1. 01

   Create a free account

   Head to the sign-up page and register with your email. Account creation is free. AI builds require a paid plan; check the pricing page for the $10 trial month and subscription limits. MT5 DeepTests and downloads require an eligible plan or add-on.
2. 02

   Install the desktop app

   MT5 compilation and DeepTests run on your own machine. Download the QuantLab desktop app for Windows, run the installer, then open QuantLab and sign in. See the desktop setup guide for the full walkthrough. QuantLab can help you install MetaTrader 5. Connect MT5 to an account or complete a free demo account setup before running a DeepTest.
3. 03

   Describe your strategy

   In the installed QuantLab app, open a new build and type your strategy in plain English, for example: EMA(12) crosses EMA(26), RSI above 50, 1% risk, 40-pip stop on EURUSD M15. You can also write code directly in the app's code editor.
4. 04

   Let it build

   QuantLab generates the bot and the desktop app compiles it locally. You'll see compile status in real time. If anything is ambiguous, the AI asks before guessing, so you get clean code, not a black box.
5. 05

   Backtest it

   Run an instant preview backtest to sanity-check the logic, then run MT5 DeepTest, the genuine MetaTrader Strategy Tester, for tick accurate results. Review the equity curve, trade list, profit factor, and max drawdown inside QuantLab.
6. 06

   Download or ship

   Happy with it? Download the compiled .ex5 (Entry+) or the full .mq5 source (Pro+), and attach it in MetaTrader. Upgrade any time to lift your build and backtest limits, unlock more platforms, or remove branding.