This guide covers connecting a WhatsApp Business API number managed directly with Meta. The process uses Meta's "Embedded Signup" system for a secure, verified integration.
Prerequisites
Administrative access to your Meta Business Manager.
A phone number capable of receiving SMS or calls. Important: for this dedicated setup (non-coexistence), if the number is already registered on WhatsApp Messenger or the WhatsApp Business App you must delete that account on the mobile app before starting (you will lose the chat history — back it up first). If you want to keep using the WhatsApp Business app on the same number, use Coexistence instead.
Alternatively, you can acquire a new number from 2Chat.
Connection Steps
1. Open the connection wizard: Go to the Channels section in the main menu, open the WhatsApp tab, and click the New WhatsApp Business Connection button.
2. Tell the wizard your situation: The wizard asks "How do you use WhatsApp for your business today?" and shows four cards:
"I use WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business on my phone" — shows a comparison of your options; Coexistence is the recommended one if you want to keep the app.
"I already have the API with another provider" — shows one extra step first: you must release the number at your current provider (see migrating an existing number).
"Starting fresh with a new number" — a number with no WhatsApp installed. This is the path this guide follows.
"Not sure — I want to compare" — shows every option side by side so you can choose.
3. Review what will happen and continue: On the final screen, the panel "What happens when I continue?" explains the whole process: a Meta window opens (allow pop-ups if you don't see it), you log in to Facebook and pick or create your Meta Business account, you pick or add the number and verify it with an SMS or call code, and you come back to 2Chat with the number connected. It takes about 5 minutes — keep your phone handy. When you're ready, click Continue to Meta.
4. Authentication with Facebook: A Facebook pop-up window will open. Log in with your personal account linked to the business.
5. Selection of Business Assets: The Meta wizard will guide you through three key selections:
Meta Business Portfolio: select your legal business entity.
WhatsApp Business Account (WABA): create a new one or select an existing one.
WhatsApp Profile: define the Display Name and the category of your business.
6. Number Verification: Enter the phone number you wish to connect and select the verification method (SMS or Call). Enter the 6-digit code received to finalize the linking.
7. Platform Confirmation: Once the Meta window closes, a pop-up window in 2Chat will ask you for a final confirmation.
8. Finish the setup: The new channel appears in the list. If it shows Configuration required in the Status column, click that button: the Setup Wizard completes the registration, templates and activation. When it finishes, the channel shows as Active.
If your browser blocks the Meta window you will see: "Your browser blocked the Meta window. Please allow pop-ups for this site and try again — or use Chrome if it keeps happening."
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to support.