> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.bonomi.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.bonomi.io/channels-overview/telegram.md).

# Telegram

Connecting a Telegram Bot to chat with customers over Telegram.

{% hint style="info" %}
To connect Telegram, a Telegram Bot is required. Read our [guide ](https://respond.io/blog/ultimate-guide-to-using-telegram-for-business/#d4g7u)to create a Telegram Bot. 
{% endhint %}

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3m0s-yAZ1xSY6WoBe%2Ftelegram0.png?alt=media\&token=dbb071ec-87e8-4cf1-a9ef-27ffe417ed98)

Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging and voice over IP service developed by Telegram Messenger LLP. This Telegram Bot integration lets you respond to messages directly from our platform.

## Connecting Telegram

**Step 1: Navigate to Channel Settings**\
From **Settings** Module, navigate to the menu item, **Channels**

**Step 2: Add Channel**\
Press **Add Channel** and choose **Telegram.** The **Connecting Telegram** dialog should open up. 

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3ll4xcCtYtzLOglW_%2Ftelegram1.PNG?alt=media\&token=fe68e3e6-7b12-4b48-938a-847ebd4c29d5)

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3loR2QSZGI6ubir1f%2Ftelegram2.PNG?alt=media\&token=bf8bcde9-33cc-4868-8612-9db0432787d9)

**Step 3: Message BotFather**\
On your telegram app, message the [BotFather](https://web.telegram.org/#/im?p=@BotFather)

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3lrbKR8dU7DzxFtql%2Ftelegram3.png?alt=media\&token=08b10543-8bb7-47cb-94f7-29e80cd42dd1)

**Step 4: Connecting to a bot**\
Send the command `/mybots` and select the bot to connect.

**Step 5: Get API Token**\
Select API Token from the menu options and add the API token to the corresponding field at respond.io platform

**Step 6: Complete the setup at respond.io**\
Press **DONE** to complete the setup

{% hint style="success" %}
Once you completed the setup, any messages sent to your Telegram account will now be received in your Space.
{% endhint %}

## Channel Configuration

{% hint style="info" %}
Telegram channel can be configured with a unique:\
\- Channel Name\
\- Greeting Message
{% endhint %}

**Step 1: Navigate to Channel Settings**\
From **Settings** Module, navigate to the menu item, **Channels**

**Step 2: Locate the Telegram channel**\
Once you have located the Telegram channel, press **Configure**

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3mADjT-qFVD1lAQUC%2Ftelegram4.PNG?alt=media\&token=ce7354ed-c784-4984-ba9c-0d1a49b44ea7)

**Step 3: Make the necessary configuration**\
You can configure the following:

* Channel Name - Name used internally to identify the account
* Greeting Message - This message is the first message sent to contact when they message you through Telegram. 

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Important**: As for the other details, take extra note while updating as it might fail to receive messages from your Telegram account. 
{% endhint %}

![](https://1976622683-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MRUONvml3nl0QuOQjwd%2F-Mj3l9aNWOCkM6rsK6fu%2F-Mj3mDRFgrRRfncgYTC4%2Ftelegram5.PNG?alt=media\&token=d34f46ff-38ff-4582-815f-2f821476cef1)

**Step 4: Update the configuration**\
Press **Done** to update the channel configuration

## Frequently Asked Questions 

### Can I connect to a personal Telegram account?

To connect a Telegram channel a Telegram Bot is required. You can create a Telegram Bot [here](https://respond.io/blog/telegram-for-business/#d4g7u).

### Can I start a conversation with a Telegram Contact? 

Telegram bot rules say contacts must message you first before you can message them back. You can share your QR code or [t.me](http://t.me/) link with your Audience.

### Can I receive files via Telegram channel?

Yes, but the maximum file size for a Telegram bot to download is 20 MB. If the Contact sent a video bigger than 20 MB, the file cannot be downloaded by the bot.

### Do you support Telegram Groups?

Telegram Groups are not supported yet, you can upvote our feature request [here](https://roadmap.respond.io/feature-request/p/telegram-support-group-chats).

## Troubleshooting

### Bot Token

If you have lost your Telegram Bot token for some reason or if your existing token has been compromised, you can use the token command to generate a new one.

{% code title="" %}

```
/token 

```

{% endcode %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Having trouble with the channel? Contact us [here](mailto:info@bonomi.io)!
{% endhint %}