> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.jelou.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Your First Channel

> Activate and link your WhatsApp Business to handle conversations from Connect.

In this guide you will connect your **WhatsApp Business** channel to **Connect** so your team can handle conversations from the Multi-agent Panel.

## Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

* An active Jelou account
* An active and verified **Business Manager** (Meta)
* A **WhatsApp Business API** account (WABA) or the ability to create one
* A phone number you can verify (SMS or call)

<Note>
  To avoid conflicts, we recommend using a number that is not associated with other WhatsApp apps.
</Note>

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create the channel">
    Go to `Channels` and click `Create channel`.

    Assign a name (e.g., `WhatsApp - Support`) and select **Connect** as the integration (Operators).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose the Connect team">
    Select the **Connect** team that will handle this channel.

    That team will see and respond to messages from the Multi-agent Panel.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Log in with Meta">
    Click `Connect with WhatsApp`.

    A Meta window will open. Log in with your Facebook account.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure WhatsApp Business and verify the number">
    In the Meta flow:

    * Select your **Business Manager**
    * Create or select your **WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)**
    * Add the number and **verify it** (SMS or call)

    <Note>
      The SIM or eSIM must be active and in a phone in order to receive the verification code.
    </Note>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Finish and return to Jelou">
    Complete the flow and click `Finish`.

    When you return to Jelou, your channel will be linked and ready to use in **Connect**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Channel ready to operate

Once you complete the process, your channel will be active within Connect.

From that moment you will be able to:

* Handle conversations with your team from Connect.
* Send approved WhatsApp campaigns.
* Escalate conversations from automation to human support without losing context.

Your conversational channel is now connected.