Telegram offers desktop apps for Windows, macOS and Linux, as well as browser access through Telegram Web. Start by identifying your operating system and whether you want an installed app or a temporary browser session. Each device page shows a download option only when a destination has been configured.
Pick an installed app or a browser session
An installed desktop app is useful when you regularly use Telegram on a computer you control. It can remain available in your normal app launcher and is suited to ongoing desktop use. Telegram Web runs in a browser and can be convenient on a shared or temporary computer, but you must take care to end the session when finished.
Both options can access Telegram cloud chats after you sign in. Secret Chats are different: Telegram describes them as device-specific and not part of cloud synchronization. Do not choose a desktop app on the assumption that every mobile conversation will appear there.
Choose the guide for your operating system
Telegram Desktop for Windows: installation choices and checks for Windows computers.
Telegram for macOS: Mac app options and setup considerations.
Telegram Desktop for Linux: Linux packages and distribution-aware checks.
Telegram Web: browser sign-in, shared-device safety and session cleanup.
Telegram’s official application directory lists its desktop and web options. Package names, supported systems and distribution methods can change, so compare the current publisher information with your operating system before installing.
Windows: compare the desktop routes
Telegram’s desktop download page currently distinguishes a standard Windows download and a portable option. A portable build may suit a computer where you do not want a conventional installation, but it does not make a shared or public computer private. Anyone with access to that computer may be able to see local files or an open session, depending on how the device is configured.
Before opening a downloaded file, check that the source is the one you intended, the file type matches the publisher’s description and your operating system permits it. If Windows displays an unexpected publisher or security warning, stop and verify the source rather than disabling protections to force the installation.
macOS: distinguish app options
Telegram lists a macOS app and a separate Telegram Desktop option. Read the current descriptions on Telegram’s application pages and choose the one that matches how you use your Mac. Do not rely only on an old screenshot or a third-party article to determine which app is current.
After installation, review macOS permissions requested by the app and grant only those that fit the features you use. If you install from a package file, keep the original source and publisher details so you can check future updates.
Linux: match the package to your system
Telegram’s desktop page lists Linux options, including a general desktop download and distribution-oriented package routes. Availability and package names may differ among distributions. Use the package manager or source you understand, and check whether the package is maintained and updated for the system you run.
Do not combine instructions for unrelated package formats. A Flatpak, Snap package and archive are not installed or updated the same way. Follow one route from a source you trust, and remove an older installation only after you know whether it contains settings or files you need.
Sign in without approving an unexpected session
Telegram may ask for a code or offer a QR sign-in flow, depending on the app and account state. Approve a QR login only when you opened the sign-in page yourself and are pairing your own computer. Never scan a code sent by a stranger or approve a login because a bot or message tells you to.
After signing in on a new computer, use a trusted Telegram app to review Settings → Devices and end any session you do not recognize. A login code is private. Do not send it to another person, a bot or a website claiming it can verify your account.
Update and remove desktop apps carefully
Use the update path provided by the source from which you installed the app. Avoid downloading a second installer from an unfamiliar page simply because it advertises a newer version. If an update prompt sends you to an unexpected domain, close it and verify the route through Telegram’s current app directory.
When you stop using a computer, sign out or terminate its session from your account’s device settings. Uninstalling the desktop app and ending an account session are separate actions; removing the app alone may not revoke a session that remains active on the account.
Related Telegram setup guides
Sources and editorial note
For current availability and instructions, check Telegram’s applications directory, desktop download page, FAQ and QR login documentation. The package information on a selected download destination should be checked before installation.