1. Try a different proxy
Proxy servers go offline or get overloaded. This is the number-one cause. Before anything else, switch to another proxy. With Proxify you tap once for a new working one, and you can ask for another if the first doesn't connect.
2. Check the secret is exact
If you entered the proxy manually, one wrong character in the secret breaks it. Copy the whole secret again — don't add spaces or line breaks. Better yet, open a proxy link so nothing is typed by hand. See how to connect.
3. Update Telegram
Old app versions can mishandle newer FakeTLS secrets. Update Telegram from your app store (or download the latest Telegram Desktop) and try again.
4. Toggle the proxy off and on
Go to Settings → Data and Storage → Proxy, turn the proxy off, wait a moment, then turn it back on. This clears a stuck handshake.
5. Fully restart Telegram
Close Telegram completely (swipe it away from recent apps) and reopen it. On desktop, quit and relaunch — not just close the window.
6. Switch networks
Some networks block specific ports or proxies. Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if one works where the other doesn't. If mobile data connects but Wi-Fi doesn't, your Wi-Fi network is blocking the proxy.
7. Try a proxy on a common port
Ports like 443 (the HTTPS port) are rarely blocked because normal websites use them. If a proxy on an unusual port fails, one on port 443 may go straight through.
8. Check your clock
A device clock that's far off can break secure handshakes. Set your phone or computer to automatic date & time and retry.
9. Reinstall as a last resort
If nothing else works, reinstalling Telegram clears corrupted settings. Your chats are restored from the cloud after you sign back in, so you won't lose messages.
ee… secret) is the most reliable workaround. Learn why in what is an MTProto proxy.