📘 Basics
What is MTProto proxy?
MTProto is Telegram's proprietary proxy protocol, specifically designed for the Telegram messenger. Unlike generic SOCKS5 or HTTP proxies, MTProto is optimized for Telegram's architecture, providing:
- Faster speeds - Optimized packet routing
- Better security - Built-in encryption
- Reliability - Designed to handle Telegram's traffic patterns
- Feature support - Works with all Telegram features
Why do I need a Telegram proxy?
You might need a Telegram proxy in these situations:
- Blocked in your region - Telegram is restricted in some countries
- Network restrictions - School, work, or public WiFi blocks Telegram
- Connection issues - Direct connection problems with Telegram servers
- Privacy concerns - Want to hide Telegram usage from ISP
How much does MTProto proxy cost?
MTProto proxy can be completely free! Many services, including mtproto.shop, provide free proxy servers. There are also premium options:
- Free proxies - No cost, community-maintained
- Premium proxies - $2-10/month for guaranteed uptime
- Self-hosted - VPS costs $5-15/month if you run your own
🔒 Security & Privacy
Is MTProto proxy safe to use?
Yes, MTProto proxy is safe when used correctly. Here's what you need to know:
✅ What's Protected:
• All messages are end-to-end encrypted
• Message content cannot be read by proxy
• Telegram's security features remain active
• Secret chats work normally through proxy
⚠️ What Proxy Can See:
• Your IP address
• Connection timing and duration
• Data volume (but not content)
• That you're using Telegram
Can the proxy see my messages?
No, the proxy cannot see your messages. Telegram uses end-to-end encryption for all communications. The MTProto proxy only acts as a relay - it forwards encrypted packets without being able to decrypt them. Think of it like a postal service: the mail carrier delivers your letters but can't read what's inside sealed envelopes.
How do I choose a trustworthy proxy?
Follow these guidelines to select safe proxies:
- Use reputable sources - Stick to known proxy providers
- Check reviews - Look for user feedback and recommendations
- Avoid suspicious links - Don't use random proxies from unknown sources
- Test before trusting - Try with non-sensitive chats first
- Rotate regularly - Don't rely on a single proxy long-term
⚙️ Setup & Configuration
How do I setup MTProto proxy?
Setting up MTProto proxy is very easy! We have a complete guide for all platforms:
📖 Read Complete Setup Guide
Quick summary:
1. Get a proxy from our list
2. Click "Connect" button
3. Open in Telegram
4. Confirm connection
Can I use MTProto proxy on multiple devices?
Yes! You can use the same proxy configuration on all your devices. Simply configure each device (phone, tablet, computer) with the same proxy details. There's no limit to how many devices can use one proxy simultaneously.
Do I need to configure proxy for each chat?
No. Proxy configuration is app-wide. Once you set up a proxy in Telegram, it applies to all your chats, channels, groups, and calls automatically. You don't need to configure it separately for each conversation.
🔧 Troubleshooting
My proxy connection failed. What should I do?
Try these solutions in order:
- Try a different proxy - The server might be offline. Get a new proxy
- Check your internet - Make sure you have a working internet connection
- Verify proxy details - Ensure server, port, and secret are correct
- Disable VPN - VPN and proxy can conflict
- Restart Telegram - Close and reopen the app
- Update Telegram - Make sure you have the latest version
Proxy was working, now it stopped. Why?
Common reasons proxies stop working:
- Server went offline - Free proxies may have limited uptime
- Server overloaded - Too many users on the same proxy
- IP banned - Server IP might be blocked in your region
- Maintenance - Server under maintenance or updates
Solution: Keep 2-3 backup proxies configured. When one fails, quickly switch to another.
Can't download files or media through proxy?
If you can send messages but can't download media:
- The proxy server might have bandwidth limitations
- Try switching to a different proxy with better performance
- Check Telegram's "Data and Storage" settings
- Consider using our bot service for premium nodes
⚡ Performance
Why is my proxy connection slow?
Several factors affect proxy speed:
- Distance - Farther servers = higher latency. Choose servers near you
- Server load - Overloaded servers are slow. Try different times or servers
- Bandwidth - Free proxies may have limited bandwidth
- Your internet - Your connection speed is the baseline
Tips for faster speeds:
• Choose geographically close servers
• Test multiple proxies and keep the fastest
• Avoid peak hours when possible
• Use our bot service for auto-optimized connections
Will using a proxy affect my Telegram features?
No, all Telegram features work normally through MTProto proxy:
- ✅ Text messages
- ✅ Voice and video calls
- ✅ File transfers
- ✅ Channels and groups
- ✅ Bots and inline mode
- ✅ Secret chats
- ✅ Stickers and GIFs
The only difference might be slightly higher latency depending on the proxy server's performance.
How often should I update my proxy?
Recommended update schedule:
- Weekly - Check for new, better-performing proxies
- Immediately - When experiencing connection issues
- After updates - After major Telegram updates
- Proactive - Keep 2-3 backup proxies ready
Visit mtproto.shop regularly for the latest proxy servers, or use our bot for automatic updates.
🆚 Comparisons
What's the difference between MTProto proxy and VPN?
Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | MTProto Proxy | VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Telegram only | All device traffic |
| Speed | ⚡ Fast | Slower |
| Cost | Usually free | Often paid |
| Setup | Very easy | More complex |
| Battery | Low impact | Higher drain |
For detailed comparison, read our Telegram Proxy vs VPN article.
Still Have Questions?
Get started with free proxies or try our automated bot for hassle-free setup