# Connecting tools and channels

Add only the plugin or native tools the bot needs, connect a channel, map the destination, and confirm the bot identity and permissions.

![Connecting tools and channels in Foxora v5.0.3](/docs/images/v5.0.3/studio/bot-builder.webp)

## Where this lives

Open **studio → Bots**.

A bot is a published conversational surface that applies configured agent behavior to connected channels or embedded experiences. It is designed for repeated inbound interactions rather than a private builder task.

> **Safety:** Treat every channel message as untrusted input. Keep high-impact tools gated, avoid exposing internal instructions, and test authorization boundaries between users.

## Steps

1. Open **studio → Bots**.
2. Add only the plugin or native tools the bot needs.
3. Connect a channel.
4. Map the destination.
5. Confirm the bot identity and permissions.
6. **Confirm the result.** Send test messages from every connected surface, confirm routing and account context, inspect tool activity, and verify the visible reply and any external action.

## Choose the right path

- Use an agent for private interactive work.
- Use a bot for repeatable conversations through a connected surface.
- Use a workflow for deterministic event-driven sequences.


## Confirm it worked

- Send test messages from every connected surface, confirm routing and account context, inspect tool activity, and verify the visible reply and any external action.
- The screen, command, file, run, or destination named in this guide reflects the expected state.