How to Use Signal on Your Computer
Signal's desktop app lets you send end-to-end encrypted messages from your Mac or PC — with everything synced from your phone.
At a Glance
Download Signal Desktop
~15sLink your phone to the desktop app
~24sQuick Tip
Your phone needs to be online to complete the linking process. Keep both devices nearby and connected to the internet while setting this up.
Start messaging from your computer
~15sUse Note to Self for reminders and file transfer
~20sKeep Signal updated
~25sWarning
If your phone is off for an extended period, the desktop app will still work for a time, but some features may be limited. Keep your phone charged and connected to keep both devices in sync.
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Signal is widely considered the most private messaging app available. Every message, photo, voice note, and call is protected by end-to-end encryption — meaning only you and the person you're communicating with can read or hear the conversation. Not even Signal can access your messages. For people who value privacy or discuss sensitive topics like health or finances with family or advisors, Signal is an excellent choice.
Signal has a desktop app for Mac and Windows that links to your phone account, similar to how WhatsApp Web works. Unlike WhatsApp, though, Signal desktop does require your phone to be on and connected periodically to keep things in sync.
To set up Signal desktop, first download the app from signal.org/download. Choose the version for your operating system and install it. When you open Signal desktop for the first time, it displays a QR code.
On your phone, open Signal and go to Settings (the gear icon or your profile photo). Find the section called "Linked Devices" and tap "Link New Device." Your phone camera activates. Scan the QR code on your computer screen and the devices link within a few seconds. Your Signal conversations appear on the desktop.
One thing to know about message history: when you link a new device, only recent messages carry over. Older message history stays on your phone but may not appear fully on the new linked computer. This is by design — Signal prioritizes privacy, which means it doesn't store your full conversation history in the cloud.
Using Signal on the desktop is largely the same experience as using it on your phone, but with the advantage of a full keyboard. The Note to Self conversation (a chat with yourself) is particularly useful — send yourself reminders, save links, or transfer files between your phone and computer by sending them to Note to Self and accessing them on the other device.
Always keep Signal updated — signal.org releases security updates frequently, and running an outdated version reduces your protection.
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