Telegram download & install questions, answered
These are the questions readers submit to the Telegram inbox most often. Skim the list, jump to your platform page for install steps, or head back to the download hub if you want to compare editions first.
- Question 01
Is downloading Telegram from this page completely free?
Yes. Every Telegram build we mirror—Windows, macOS, Android APK, iOS via the App Store, and the browser Web client—is 100% free. There are no trials, license fees, or upsells hidden inside the installer.
- Question 02
Which Telegram edition should I install for my device?
Pick the platform card that matches the device you actually use. Windows and macOS get dedicated desktop apps with fuller settings; iOS and Android use the mobile builds tuned for touch and notifications; the Web client is best when you cannot install anything (school PC, shared laptop, Chromebook).
- Question 03
Is Telegram safe and secure to use?
Telegram uses MTProto encryption for all traffic and offers optional end-to-end encrypted 'Secret Chats' for one-to-one conversations. Combine that with a strong Two-Step Verification password and device passcode, and it is one of the safer everyday messengers available.
- Question 04
Do I need a phone number to sign up for Telegram?
You need a working phone number the first time you register (to receive the login code). After that you can hide the number from other users, add a public @username, and even sign in on new devices without exposing it.
- Question 05
How large is the Telegram installer?
It is intentionally lightweight: the Windows installer is around 52 MB, the Android APK is roughly 78 MB, and macOS/iOS builds from the app stores are similar. The web version needs no install at all—your browser downloads only the assets it renders.
- Question 06
How do I move my Telegram chats to a new phone or PC?
Because chats live in the Telegram cloud, all you have to do is sign in on the new device with the same phone number. Regular chats, channels, and media instantly resync. Only 'Secret Chats' are device-local and will not transfer.
- Question 07
Why is Telegram Desktop showing an update prompt?
Telegram Desktop checks for a newer version on startup. Accepting keeps you on the latest security patches, sticker packs, and API changes. On Windows/macOS the update installs in the background; on Linux and portable builds you re-download the current build.
- Question 08
Can I run Telegram on more than one device at the same time?
Yes. Telegram supports unlimited simultaneous sessions across desktop, mobile, tablets, and the Web client. Every device stays in sync, and you can review or terminate any active session from Settings → Devices.
Cannot find your question?
Every platform page (Windows, Web, macOS, iOS, Android) has its own detailed FAQ tuned to that operating system. If you are troubleshooting an install, start there — the answer is usually specific to your OS.