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What is a set file?

A set file (.set) stores every input of an expert advisor: lot size, risk, stop distance, trading hours and so on. Loading one applies a complete, tested configuration in one click instead of typing each setting by hand.

Updated 6 November 2026 · written for MetaTrader 5

Where set files go

In MT5, copy them to File → Open Data Folder → MQL5 → Presets. In both MT4 and MT5, the Load button in the EA’s Inputs tab opens the platform’s presets folder, so you can also browse to the file from there.

Load a set file in MT5

  1. Attach the EA to the right chart, or double-click it on a chart where it is already running.
  2. Open the Inputs tab and click Load.
  3. Choose the set file that matches your account size and click Open.
  4. Check that the values changed, then click OK.

Save your own settings

Change the inputs, click Save on the same tab and give the file a clear name, such as gold-trend-1k-low-risk.set. Keep the original set files unchanged so you can always go back.

Tips

  • Use the set file made for your account size; a $10,000 set file on a $1,000 account multiplies the risk ten times.
  • If your broker names symbols differently (GOLD or XAUUSD.r instead of XAUUSD), check any symbol inputs after loading.
  • Edit set files inside MetaTrader, not in a text editor, so the format stays valid.

FAQ

No. The two platforms store set files in different formats, so use the one made for your platform.

The set file was made for a different EA or an older version. Load the set file that came with your version.

New to MT5? Start with how to install an EA in MT5.