Here is a list of things you need to get started

You will need a laptop or a desktop computer running Windows (it doesn't matter what version). 

If you just want to "test-drive" trading, all you need is to download and install the  MetaTrader 4 platform. 

The platform is free for retail users.

Download MT4 here.

In order to actually trade currencies, you will need to open an account with a Forex Broker that uses MT4 as a platform. Most brokers do. 

Make sure to select a broker that is regulated and a registered member of the NFA (National Futures Association).

A VPS (Virtual Private Server) is a service that allows for the MT4 terminal to run round-the-clock, even if your computer is off. 

If you want your EAs to run 24/7, even during power outages, having a VPS is the way to go.

Once you have your computer running MT4 (with or without a VPS), you can install and run an Expert Advisor (EA), also known as "trading robots".

Trading Robots are programs that monitor and trade automatically using algorithms with adjustable parameters

Use MT4’s Strategy Tester to try out the EA and observe its results on historical data. 

You may adjust the EAs parameters and even optimize their values to improve performance.