How to connect WhatsApp to Bitrix24 for free - briefly?
To connect WhatsApp to Bitrix24 for free, you can use the official Bitrix24 Marketplace app called "WhatsApp Business API Integration". This integration allows you to manage your WhatsApp messages directly from your Bitrix24 account without any additional costs.
How to connect WhatsApp to Bitrix24 for free - in detail?
Connecting WhatsApp to Bitrix24 for free can significantly enhance your customer communication and streamline your business processes. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to achieve this integration:
Prerequisites
- Bitrix24 Account: Ensure you have an active Bitrix24 account.
- WhatsApp Number: You need a WhatsApp number that is registered and verified for use with Twilio or another API provider.
- Twilio Account: Sign up for a free Twilio account, which will facilitate the integration between WhatsApp and Bitrix24.
Step-by-Step Integration
1. Set Up Your Twilio Account
- Register: Go to Twilio’s website and register for a free account. You will receive a trial credit that you can use.
- Verify Phone Number: Purchase a WhatsApp-enabled phone number from Twilio. This typically costs around $1, but the first month is often free with the trial credit.
2. Configure Your Twilio Account for WhatsApp
- Navigate to Console: Log in to your Twilio console and navigate to the "Programmable Messaging" section.
- Enable WhatsApp: Under "WhatsApp Sandbox," enable sandbox mode for testing purposes. This allows you to send messages without needing official business verification from WhatsApp.
3. Create a Webhook in Twilio
- Webhook URL: In the Twilio console, go to the "Messaging" section and find the "A Message Comes In" webhook. Set this webhook URL to point to your Bitrix24 instance. You can use ngrok or a similar service to create a public URL that forwards to your local server if you are developing locally.
4. Install the Twilio Add-On in Bitrix24
- Bitrix24 Marketplace: Go to the Bitrix24 marketplace and search for the "Twilio" add-on. Install it on your Bitrix24 account.
- Configure Add-On: Once installed, configure the add-on with your Twilio Account SID, Auth Token, and the phone number you purchased from Twilio.
5. Test the Integration
- Send a Message: Use the Twilio console to send a test message to your WhatsApp sandbox number.
- Receive in Bitrix24: You should see this message appear in your Bitrix24 interface under the messaging section you configured for Twilio.
Tips for Successful Integration
- Sandbox Mode: Remember that the integration in sandbox mode is limited to 24 hours after the user's last interaction and can only communicate with numbers that have opted into your sandbox.
- Business Verification: For production use, you will need to apply for WhatsApp Business API access via Twilio, which involves a verification process.
- Monitor Usage: Keep an eye on your usage within the free trial period to avoid unexpected charges.
By following these steps, you can effectively connect WhatsApp to Bitrix24, improving your communication workflow and enhancing customer interactions without incurring additional costs beyond the initial setup fees.