WhatsApp Desktop is Meta's official companion application for the WhatsApp messaging service, available for Windows and macOS. It links to your phone's WhatsApp account and mirrors your chats, so messages, calls and media stay in sync between devices. Personal messages, calls and media on WhatsApp are protected with end-to-end encryption.
How WhatsApp Desktop Works With Your Phone
WhatsApp Desktop is not a separate messaging account but a linked device, which keeps behavior consistent with the phone app you already use. Every personal chat and call carries the same end-to-end encryption as mobile WhatsApp, and with multi-device support the desktop app can keep working for a period even if your phone loses its connection, once the initial link is made.
WhatsApp Desktop Features
- End-to-End Encryption — personal messages and calls remain encrypted, matching the mobile app.
- Linked-Device Sync — mirrors chats, contacts and media from your phone account.
- Voice & Video Calls — make calls directly from the desktop app.
- File & Media Sharing — send documents, photos and videos using your computer's file system.
- Desktop Notifications — get message alerts without picking up your phone.
- Multi-Device Support — stay connected on desktop even when your phone is offline, once linked.
How to Install WhatsApp Desktop
- Open the official download page using the button on this page to get the genuine Meta installer.
- Install the app for Windows or macOS and launch WhatsApp Desktop.
- Open WhatsApp on your phone and go to Linked Devices in settings.
- Scan the QR code shown on your computer screen using your phone's camera.
- Start chatting once the devices are linked and chats have synced.
Is WhatsApp Desktop really free?
Free. WhatsApp Desktop is free to download and use.
How to download WhatsApp Desktop safely
Use the request button on this page and we will email you the current link for www.whatsapp.com — the publisher's own website — so you receive the authentic build. We do not host, mirror, patch or repackage this software in any way.
Avoid third-party "download manager" sites offering WhatsApp Desktop. They commonly wrap the genuine installer in their own bundler, which is how adware and browser hijackers get onto a machine that the user believed was clean.
Alternatives to WhatsApp Desktop
Other free communication software worth comparing before you decide:
Telegram Desktop
Cloud-based messaging app with large group and channel support.
Viber
Free messaging and calling app with a synced desktop client.
All-in-one messaging, social and payments app popular in China.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a phone to use WhatsApp Desktop?
Yes, it links to a phone number and account via the Linked Devices feature.
Is WhatsApp Desktop encrypted?
Yes, personal chats and calls carry the same end-to-end encryption as the mobile app.
Is WhatsApp Desktop free?
Yes, it is free to download and use.
Can I use WhatsApp Desktop if my phone is off?
With multi-device support, the desktop app can keep working for a period even if your phone is offline, though initial linking requires the phone.
Does WhatsApp Desktop work on Linux?
Meta does not officially distribute a native Linux desktop client; WhatsApp Web in a browser is the common alternative there.
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WhatsApp Desktop is identical worldwide — these are search phrasings, not different downloads. Every one of them gets the same official build from www.whatsapp.com.
