由 飞机号客服@idbeiyong Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging platform developed with an emphasis on speed and privacy. One of its major strengths is its ability to function seamlessly across devices. Whether you’re using it on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, or Linux, Telegram allows you to start a conversation on one device and continue it on another without missing a beat. This cross-platform agility is particularly valuable for professionals, digital nomads, and anyone who uses multiple devices throughout the day.
Telegram Desktop refers specifically to the version of Telegram designed for laptops and desktop computers. Unlike WhatsApp, which requires your mobile phone to be constantly connected to use its desktop version, Telegram Desktop is a standalone application. This independence offers more control and reliability.
Logging in to Telegram Desktop is the gateway to that freedom. Here’s everything you need to know.
Downloading Telegram Desktop
The first step in logging into Telegram on your desktop is installing the application.
Official Website Download: Visit the official Telegram website (telegram.org) and navigate to the “Apps” section. Select your operating system—Windows, macOS, or Linux—and download the corresponding installer.
Microsoft Store or Mac App Store: Windows users can also download Telegram from the Microsoft Store, and macOS users can find it on the Mac App Store. These versions are optimized for their respective platforms and often auto-update with system preferences.
Installation: Once the download is complete, open the installer file. Follow the on-screen prompts to install Telegram on your system. The process typically takes less than a minute.
Launching Telegram for the First Time
Once installed, launch Telegram Desktop. You’ll be greeted by a clean interface prompting you to log in. The screen usually says “Start Messaging,” inviting you to begin the authentication process.
Here’s where things get interesting. Telegram offers two primary methods of authentication:
Using Your Phone Number
Scanning a QR Code via Mobile App
Each method is designed with different user needs in mind.
Method 1: Logging In Using Your Phone Number
This is the traditional and most widely used method for logging into Telegram.
Step-by-Step Process:
Click “Start Messaging.”
Select your country from the drop-down menu.
Enter your phone number.
Click “Next.”
You’ll receive a code on the Telegram app on your phone. Enter this code into the desktop app.
If Telegram isn’t installed on your phone, you’ll receive the code via SMS. Enter this code in the field provided on your desktop. Once entered, Telegram verifies your identity and logs you in.
Important Notes:
You must use the same phone number linked to your existing Telegram account.
If you’re creating a new account, follow the prompts to set your name and profile photo after verification.
Method 2: Logging In Using QR Code
The QR code method is faster and especially convenient for users who are already logged into Telegram on their mobile device.
Step-by-Step Process:
Open Telegram Desktop and click “Log in by QR Code.”
A QR code will appear on your desktop screen.
Open Telegram on your phone.
Go to Settings > Devices > Link Desktop Device.
Scan the QR code with your mobile camera through the Telegram app.
The desktop version will automatically log you in.
Benefits:
This method is instantaneous and avoids having to type or wait for an SMS.
It’s ideal for users who regularly switch between devices.
What Happens After You Log In
Once you’ve logged in successfully, Telegram Desktop syncs your entire chat history, contacts, groups, and channels via cloud-based storage. Unlike other messaging apps, Telegram stores everything in the cloud (except Secret Chats), which means your messages are instantly available across all devices.
Here’s what becomes accessible:
One-on-one chats
Group chats
Public and private channels
Saved messages
Media files, documents, and shared links
Custom themes and preferences
All interactions are end-to-end encrypted when applicable, especially if you’re using Secret Chats (which are mobile-only).
Setting Up Your Profile
After logging in, take a few minutes to personalize your profile:
Click on your profile picture at the top left.
Update your profile photo.
Edit your name and bio.
Adjust privacy settings as needed.
This step may seem minor, but a properly set up profile improves communication, especially in group or business settings.
Customizing Telegram Desktop
Telegram Desktop is more than a basic chat window. You can customize the interface and behavior to suit your style.
Popular Customizations:
Themes: Choose from pre-installed light, dark, and night mode themes or create your own.
Notifications: Customize desktop notifications, sound alerts, and badge settings.
Folders: Organize chats into folders like “Work,” “Friends,” or “Projects.”
Chat Backgrounds: Change the chat wallpaper for aesthetic or readability preferences.
These enhancements make using Telegram on a desktop both efficient and enjoyable.
Logging Out and Switching Accounts
Telegram Desktop supports multiple accounts, though not simultaneously in the same window. To log out:
Click the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) at the top left.
Go to Settings > Log Out.
You’ll be taken back to the login screen.
To switch accounts, log out of one and log into another using the same methods mentioned earlier. Telegram does not currently support concurrent sessions of multiple accounts in the same window on desktop, but you can use workarounds like browser-based Telegram (web.telegram.org) alongside the desktop app.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
If you encounter problems while logging in, consider the following solutions:
1. No Code Received:
Ensure your mobile device has network coverage.
Restart the Telegram app or phone.
Try the QR code method if the SMS or app code doesn’t arrive.
2. Incorrect Phone Number:
Double-check the country code and number formatting.
Use the exact number linked to your Telegram account.
3. Desktop App Crashing or Not Responding:
Make sure your desktop OS is up to date.
Reinstall Telegram Desktop.
Use the web version temporarily if issues persist.
4. Code Entered But Not Logging In:
Ensure the code hasn’t expired. Telegram codes are time-sensitive.
If you’ve requested multiple codes, use the most recent one.
Security Tips During Login
Logging into any communication platform should always be done with caution. Telegram takes several steps to protect its users, but you can help by being proactive:
Enable Two-Step Verification: This adds a password in addition to the code sent to your phone. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification.
Check Active Sessions: Periodically review your active devices under Settings > Devices. Remove any unfamiliar sessions.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Logging in via unsecured networks can expose your data.
Never Share Your Code: Telegram will never ask for your login code via chat or phone call.
These practices significantly reduce your risk of unauthorized access.
Telegram Web: An Alternative to Desktop App
If you’re unable to install the desktop application or need a quick access point from a different computer, Telegram Web is a solid alternative. Visit web.telegram.org, and log in using either your phone number or by scanning a QR code.