# Start Guardian

The portal is a dedicated channel where new members land when they try to join your group. It presents a welcome message with an image or video, and a **Verify** button they must tap to gain access. This stops bots and bad actors from entering automatically.

Guardian can function without a portal, but setting one up is recommended for full protection.

**Setting up your portal**

Before you begin, make sure you have created both a Telegram group and a channel.

**Step 1:** Send **/setup** in DM with Guardian.

**Step 2:** Select your group.

**Step 3:** Select your channel.

**Step 4:** Guardian will confirm the connection. Your portal is now active and your group is protected.

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Once Guardian is set up, type **/settings** in your group to access the full settings console, where you can manage all of Guardian's features in one place.
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