Why does Telegram show “Proxy Connected” but messages cannot be sent?

Telegram is a popular messaging app known for its privacy features and ability to bypass censorship through the use of proxy servers. However, some users experience a frustrating issue where Telegram shows the message "Proxy Connected" but is unable to send any messages. This situation can be perplexing, as the app indicates that the proxy is connected, suggesting that everything should be working fine. In this article, we will explore the potential causes of this issue and provide actionable solutions to help resolve it. From server misconfigurations to network issues, we will analyze the possible scenarios that could lead to Telegram being connected to a proxy yet still failing to send messages.

Understanding the Proxy Feature in Telegram

To fully understand the issue at hand, it's essential to first grasp how Telegram's proxy system works. Telegram provides its users with the option to connect through a proxy server, which acts as an intermediary between the user's device and Telegram's servers. This feature is typically used to bypass network restrictions, such as those imposed by certain countries or internet service providers (ISPs).

There are two main types of proxies that Telegram users can connect through: sock s5 proxies and MTProto proxies. Both proxies help users maintain their privacy and bypass geo-restrictions. When the proxy is set up correctly, it allows users to access Telegram even if direct connections are blocked or restricted.

Why Does Telegram Show "Proxy Connected" But Not Send Messages?

Despite the proxy connection being established, several reasons could be preventing Telegram from sending messages. Understanding these issues is crucial for troubleshooting. Below are some of the common causes:

1. Proxy Server Misconfiguration

The first and most common cause of this issue is a misconfiguration in the proxy settings. Even though Telegram shows that the proxy is connected, if the proxy settings are incorrect or incomplete, messages might fail to send.

Possible misconfigurations include:

- Incorrect proxy server address or port.

- Wrong authentication credentials (username/password).

- Incorrect proxy type selection (SOCKS5 vs. MTProto).

Solution: Double-check the proxy settings in Telegram. Verify the server address, port, and credentials with the provider to ensure they are correct. Make sure the proxy type matches the one supported by the proxy server you're using.

2. Proxy Server Overload or Instability

Another reason for Telegram being unable to send messages while showing "Proxy Connected" could be related to the performance of the proxy server itself. If the proxy server is overloaded, slow, or experiencing connectivity issues, Telegram might not be able to send messages even though the connection appears to be established.

Solution: Try connecting to a different proxy server or use a more stable and reliable provider. Some proxy services offer multiple servers; switching to a less congested server could resolve the issue.

3. Network Connectivity Issues

Network connectivity issues on your device can also cause Telegram to fail in sending messages despite a proxy connection being established. This could happen due to:

- Weak Wi-Fi or mobile data signal.

- ISP throttling or restrictions.

- Firewalls or security software blocking Telegram's traffic.

Solution: Ensure that your device has a stable and strong internet connection. If you're using Wi-Fi, try switching to mobile data, or vice versa, to see if the problem persists. Also, disable any firewalls or security software temporarily to rule out any interference.

4. Telegram's Server Issues

In rare cases, the issue might lie with Telegram's own servers. Telegram occasionally experiences downtime or technical difficulties that can affect users' ability to send messages, even when connected through a proxy.

Solution: Check the status of Telegram's servers by visiting trusted third-party websites or social media channels where Telegram provides updates. If Telegram's servers are down, you may need to wait until the issue is resolved.

5. Proxy Type Incompatibility with Telegram

Telegram supports two types of proxies: SOCKS5 and MTProto. Some proxies may not be fully compatible with Telegram, especially if you are using a proxy that was not specifically designed for Telegram. While SOCKS5 proxies are widely supported, MTProto proxies are optimized for Telegram and provide a more stable connection.

Solution: If you're using a socks5 proxy and facing issues, try switching to an MTProto proxy, as it is more compatible with Telegram's architecture. MTProto is a Telegram-specific protocol designed to optimize connections for better reliability.

6. Proxy Blacklisting

Sometimes, the proxy server you are using might be blacklisted by Telegram. This is more common with public proxies or proxy services that are frequently used by many users. If Telegram detects suspicious activity from a particular proxy or server, it may block traffic from that server, preventing users from sending messages.

Solution: Switch to a different proxy or consider using a private proxy service that is less likely to be blacklisted. Make sure to use proxies from trusted providers with a good reputation for reliability and security.

7. Outdated Telegram Version

An outdated version of the Telegram app can also contribute to issues with proxy connections. If you're using an old version of Telegram, some features might not work correctly with newer proxy protocols or settings.

Solution: Ensure that your Telegram app is updated to the latest version. Check for updates on the app store or directly from the official Telegram website and install the latest version.

8. Device-Specific Issues

Device-specific problems, such as issues with the operating system or corrupted app data, can sometimes cause Telegram to fail in sending messages. This is especially true if other apps are working fine while Telegram fails.

Solution: Try restarting your device or reinstalling the Telegram app. In some cases, clearing the app's cache or data can also help resolve issues with the app's functionality.

9. Telegram Settings and Permissions

Lastly, the problem might be related to the specific settings and permissions granted to Telegram on your device. For instance, if Telegram is not allowed to run in the background or if network permissions are restricted, it may struggle to send messages.

Solution: Go into your device settings and ensure that Telegram has the necessary permissions to access the internet and run in the background. Check if any network restrictions are set on your device that might prevent Telegram from functioning properly.

In summary, when Telegram shows "Proxy Connected" but messages cannot be sent, the issue could be due to a variety of factors. These can range from misconfigurations in the proxy settings to network issues, proxy server overload, or even problems with Telegram’s servers. By systematically troubleshooting each of these possibilities, users can identify the root cause of the problem and resolve it effectively. If the issue persists, reaching out to the proxy service provider or Telegram support can provide further assistance in resolving the problem.