Troubleshooting3 min read
EA Connection and Authentication Errors
How to diagnose and fix connection errors between the PipsCrusher EA and the server.
If the EA is showing connection or authentication errors in the MT5 Experts log, follow these steps:
"Authentication Failed" or "Invalid API Key":
●Verify the API key in EA settings matches your dashboard exactly
●Check for extra spaces or missing characters in the key
●Try generating a new API key from your dashboard and updating the EA
●Ensure your subscription is active (expired plans revoke API access)
"Connection Error" or "Send Failed":
●Check that the API Base URL is correct (e.g., https://api.pipscrusher.com)
●Ensure "Allow WebRequest" is configured in MT5 Options for the correct URL
●Test your VPS/computer's internet connection
●Check if your firewall is blocking MT5's outbound connections
●Try pinging the API URL from a command prompt
"Timeout" Errors:
●Your internet connection may be unstable or slow
●The API server may be temporarily under heavy load (rare)
●Increase the EA's timeout setting if available
●Check if your VPS provider is experiencing network issues
"Plan Limit Exceeded":
●You've reached your plan's maximum concurrent trades
●Wait for existing positions to close, or upgrade your plan
●Check your dashboard for the current number of open positions
"Feature Not Available":
●Your plan doesn't include auto-trading
●Upgrade to a plan with auto_trade_enabled
Debugging Tips: 1. Check the "Experts" tab in MT5 (Ctrl+T) for detailed error messages 2. Check the "Journal" tab for network-level errors 3. Try removing the EA and re-attaching it with fresh settings 4. Restart MT5 completely if issues persist
If errors continue, note the exact error message from the Experts log and contact support.