1. Download Telegram

  • On mobile: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for Telegram.

  • On desktop: Visit https://telegram.org and download the version for your computer.

  • You can also use the Telegram Web version in your browser.

2. Create Your Account

  1. Open the app and enter your phone number.

  2. Telegram will send a verification code via SMS.

  3. Enter the code to confirm your account.

  4. Add your name (and optional profile photo).

3. Set Up Privacy & Security

  • Go to Settings → Privacy and Security:

    • Last Seen & Online: Limit who can see this info.

    • Profile Photo: Set to "My Contacts" or "Nobody" for extra privacy.

    • Two-Step Verification: Add a password for more security.

    • Active Sessions: Check and log out of devices you don’t recognize.

4. Find and Join Chats

  • Use the search bar to look for friends, groups, or channels.

  • You can join:

    • Private chats: One-on-one conversations.

    • Groups: Communities for discussion (some public, some invite-only).

    • Channels: For news and updates (only admins can post).

5. Send Messages & Media

  • Tap the pencil icon (mobile) or New Message (desktop).

  • Select a contact or group.

  • Type your message or use the attachment icon to send:

    • Photos, videos, files, or voice messages.

6. Use Basic Features

  • Stickers & GIFs: Add fun reactions to messages.

  • Voice & Video Calls: Make secure calls with Telegram contacts.

  • Saved Messages: Forward important content to yourself for later reference.

7. Explore Advanced Features

  • Bots: Automate tasks or get info from specialized bots (e.g., price alerts).

  • Secret Chats: Encrypted conversations that can self-destruct.

  • Folders: Organize chats if you join many groups.

8. Stay Safe

  • Don’t share personal info in public groups.

  • Double-check usernames to avoid scammers.

  • Turn off auto-download for media in Settings → Data and Storage if you want to save data.

© 2025. All rights reserved.

Getting Started with X