> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://tg-token-gates.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://tg-token-gates.gitbook.io/docs/gate-creation/create-a-token-gate.md).
# Create a Token Gate
Once your chats are ready, it’s time to define the rules to get in your chat.
### Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure:
* You are the **owner** of the chat(s) you want to configure.
* The bot has **admin rights** in all chats
* Groups are converted to supergroups
* There are no members in the gated chat.
* You have SOL to pay for the bot. (one-time lifetime payment)
If these prerequisites are met, you’re ready for `/setup`.
***
### Step 1: DM the bot with `/setup`
1. Start a private chat with [**@tg\_token\_gates\_bot**](https://t.me/tg_token_gates_bot).
2. Send the command **`/setup`** to launch the setup process.
3. Keep this private chat open — this is where you’ll configure everything.
4. Make sure you complete all prerequisite “tasks” shown by the bot, then tap **Tasks completed** to move forward.
***
### Step 2: Select your gated chat
**IF** you are gating a **"Channel & Discussion Group"** select **"Gate a Channel"** during the /setup process
* Select **"Gate a Channel"** or **"Gate a Group"**
* Click **"Select Channel"** or **"Select Group"** then select the chat you want to **gate**.
If you’re gating a **channel** that has a **discussion group**, the bot will detect this and show a notification that the discussion group has been recognized. Both will be treated as part of the gate.
### Step 3: Select your "Entry Channel"
Next, choose the **Entry Channel**:
* It must be a **Telegram channel**, not a group.
* It must be **different** from your gated chat.
* You must be the **owner**, and the bot must be an **admin**.
### Step 3.5: Purchase Access
This is a one-time cost paid in $SOL. This will grant your **"Channel"** or **"Group"** full access to our features.\
\
IF your gating a **"Channel & Discussion Group"** the **"Channel"** is in control of the gate rules.
* Click **"Unlock Access Now"**
* Send the required $SOL to the wallet address provided
* You know have access. Continue to Step #4.
***
### Step 4: Confirm all chats
The bot will show a summary of your selected chats
* 🔒 **Protected Chat:** ``
* 🔒 **Discussion Group:** `` (if you have one)
* 📢 **Entry Channel:** ``
Carefully review this screen:
* If you’re gating a **channel** with a **discussion group**, make sure both appear here.
* Tap **Confirm** to continue, or go back if anything looks wrong.
***
### Step 5: Choose gate type
Now define **how users qualify** to join.
* **Gate Types:**
* 🔷 **Token Gate** – Users must hold a specific token to join.
* 🪙 **Net Worth Gate** – Users must meet a minimum USD portfolio value.
For this example we will select "Token Gate"
### **Step 6: Select Blockchain**
Select the blockchain associated with the token you want to use for this gate.
**NOTE**: The Multichain option is a special scenario for tokens that exist across multiple chains. To learn more [click here](/docs/multichain-metrics.md).
### **Step 7: Select Token Type**
* *Native Token (e.g., SOL, ETH, BNB) (Go to* [*Step: #8*](#step-8-define-threshold)*)*
* *Custom Token (Go to* [*Step: #7A*](#step-7a-custom-token)*)*
* If you selected multichain this step is skipped. (Go to [Step: #7B](#step-7b-multichain-token))
### **Step 7A: Custom Token**
In this step you define the contract address of your custom token. The bot will find the $TICKER.
Verify it's correct then continue to Step #8
### **Step 7B: Multichain Token**
In this step you submit either the multichain metrics link or the parent contract address for your custom token.
Verify the details are correct then click **"Continue"**
### **Step 8: Define Threshold**
Define how many (custom or native) tokens a user must hold to gain access.
***
### **Step 9: Create Your Entry Message!**
***
### **Step 10: Create Your Gate!**
* Once everything is entered, the bot will show a **confirmation screen**.
* Tap **Create Gate**.
* 🎉 Your gate is now active!
* New users must pass through the entry portal to join your protected chat.
*If you run into issues, feel free to reach out for help.*
