Lesson 3 of 7 · 5 min
Choose how to connect WhatsApp
Coexistence or API only? Pick the connection that matches how your team works today.
What you'll learn
- Check your number is ready to link
- Compare Coexistence and API only
- Choose the right option for your team
Check your number first
- Has this number ever been banned or restricted on WhatsApp? A previously banned number may be refused entirely. If you're not sure, find out before you start.
- Is your Facebook (Meta) account in good standing? A history of ad account restrictions or policy flags isn't a confirmed blocker, but clean accounts tend to go through more smoothly.
- Can the number receive an SMS or voice call? You'll need it for the verification code.
Option 1: WhatsApp Coexistence
Use this if the number is already on the WhatsApp Business app and you want to keep using the app.
Benefits
- Keep using your number in the WhatsApp Business app exactly as you do now, while StreamHost connects to the same number.
- Easiest to set up: no number change, no lost chat history or contacts.
Drawbacks
- The connection depends on your phone. The WhatsApp Business app must stay installed and be opened regularly, or the connection can drop.
- Some settings (business profile, catalog, status, group chats) can only be changed in the app, not in StreamHost.
- If you change phones or reinstall the app, Meta usually asks you to confirm a reconnect. Messaging pauses until you do, and your templates are lost and must be set up again.
- Coexistence numbers can't get the verified blue tick, and display-name approval isn't automatic. You'd need to apply for Meta Verified separately.
Option 2: API only
Use this with a new number that has never been registered on WhatsApp.
Benefits
- The most stable option. Everything runs through StreamHost, with no phone or app that has to stay active.
- If the connection ever drops, your templates in StreamHost remain.
Drawbacks
- You give up the WhatsApp app on this number entirely. All replies, templates and management happen in StreamHost.
- The number must not be registered on any WhatsApp app when you link it.
Which should I choose?
- Your team replies to guests from a phone today and wants to keep doing that? Choose Coexistence.
- You're moving guest communication fully into StreamHost and want the most reliable connection? Choose API only.
Then follow Connect your WhatsApp number.