> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.whapi.cloud/help-desk/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.whapi.cloud/help-desk/troubleshooting/other/error-401.-need-channel-authorization.md).

# Error "401. Need channel authorization"

An error occurs when attempting to make a request via the API.

```json
{
  "error": {
    "code": 401,
    "message": "need channel authorization for send message"
  }
}
```

The error means that the channel (instance) is **currently not authorized**, or that WhatsApp has **terminated the active session**.\
\
**What to do:**\
[Open the Dashboard](https://panel.whapi.cloud/dashboard) and check the channel status. If the status is **QR**, perform **reconnection (reconnect / re-authorize)**.

**The most common reason for a session disconnection** is inactivity of the primary phone. WhatsApp requires logging in on the primary device **at least once every 14 days**; otherwise, all linked devices, including the API channel, are disconnected. To avoid this, open WhatsApp on your phone **at least once every 14 days**.

Less frequently, WhatsApp may terminate a session due to protective mechanisms:

* unusual or mass activity;
* connecting a new number to the API without proper warm-up.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Check out our helpful articles:\
\
[Warming Up New Phone Numbers for WhatsApp API](/help-desk/blocking/warming-up-new-phone-numbers-for-whatsapp-api.md)

[How to not get Banned?](/help-desk/blocking/how-to-not-get-banned.md)
{% endhint %}

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