---
title: How do I handle “Failed” and “Invalid” ports?
description: "Always connect **Failed** and **Invalid** ports to a sensible next step. For **Send WhatsApp** Failed: connect to a fallback message (“We’re sorry, please try again”) or retry logic. For **Ask** Invalid: connect to retry message or max-retries then a human/agent transfer or exit. Leaving these ports unconnected can…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-i-handle-failed-and-invalid-ports/"
updated: "2026-04-01"
category: WhatsApp Business API / Workflow Builder
---

# How do I handle “Failed” and “Invalid” ports?

Always connect **Failed** and **Invalid** ports to a sensible next step. For **Send WhatsApp** Failed: connect to a fallback message (“We’re sorry, please try again”) or retry logic. For **Ask** Invalid: connect to retry message or max-retries then a human/agent transfer or exit. Leaving these ports unconnected can leave users without a response when something goes wrong.

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