Telegram proxy stops working when a VPN is on
With a VPN on, Telegram reaches the proxy through the VPN server. That can work, but it doubles the distance, and if either tunnel is blocked or unstable Telegram stays on “Connecting to proxy…”. Usually one of the two is enough.
What you see
| Where | On screen |
|---|---|
| VPN on | “Connecting to proxy…” or “Unavailable” |
| VPN off | The same proxy connects |
What it usually means
- The VPN server cannot reach the proxy, for example because the proxy blocks visitors from data-centre addresses.
- Two encrypted tunnels add delay, and the app gives up before the connection is ready.
- Some VPN apps cover only selected apps, so Telegram may bypass the VPN while everything else uses it.
- VPN apps that reconnect or change servers on their own drop Telegram’s connection each time.
Check it step by step
- Turn off the VPN and keep the proxy.
If Telegram connects, the proxy is enough on this network.
- Turn off Use Proxy in Telegram and keep the VPN.
If Telegram connects, the VPN alone covers Telegram. Leave the proxy off so the two do not get in each other’s way.
- If you need both, pick a VPN server close to you.
Less distance makes the double route more workable.
- On Telegram Desktop, check whether Use system proxy settings is selected.
If a VPN or another program sets a system proxy, Desktop picks it up. Choose Use custom proxy or Disable proxy instead.
Try a server that passed our last check
These servers passed a full MTProto handshake from our checker. List built 19 October 2026 at 15:11 UTC; it is rebuilt every 20 minutes. A server that works for our checker can still be blocked on your network.
Questions
Should I use a proxy and a VPN at the same time?
Rarely. Use the proxy if only Telegram is blocked, the VPN if other apps are blocked too. Running both mostly adds delay.
Does a VPN hide that I use a proxy?
Your network then sees only the VPN connection. The proxy owner sees the VPN server’s address instead of yours.
Which is safer?
Both providers can see connection data. Compare them in is a free proxy safe and proxy or VPN.