MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is a trading platform developed by MetaQuotes in 2005.
Although it is most commonly associated with forex trading, MetaTrader 4 can be used to trade a range of markets, not just forex.
Like most online trading platforms, MT4 allows traders to view charts, stream live prices, and place orders with their broker.
MT4 is extremely popular due to the fact that it is highly customizable to your individual trading preferences.
It can also be used to automate your trading, using algorithms which open and close trades on your behalf according to a list of set parameters.
The software is licensed to forex brokers who provide the software to their customers.
The software consists of both a client and a server component.
The server component is run by the broker and the client software is provided to the broker’s customers, who use it to see live streaming prices and charts, to place orders, and to manage their accounts.
The client is a Microsoft Windows-based application that became popular mainly due to the ability for users to write their own trading scripts and robots that could automate trading.
While there is no official MT4 version available for Mac OS, some brokers provide their own custom developed MT4 variants for Mac OS.
In 2010, MetaQuotes released a successor, MetaTrader 5 (MT5).