What is Telegram? A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging app known for its speed, security, and powerful features. Launched in 2013 by brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov, Telegram has grown rapidly and now serves hundreds of millions of users worldwide.

Table of Contents

• Overview of Telegram
• Key Features of Telegram
• Is Telegram Safe?
• How to Get Started with Telegram
• Telegram vs Other Messengers
• FAQs About Telegram

Overview of Telegram

Telegram offers fast, encrypted messaging with the ability to send text messages, voice messages, multimedia files, stickers, and more. It supports group chats with up to 200,000 members and allows users to create their own public or private channels for broadcasting messages to large audiences.

Key Features of Telegram

• Cloud-Based: Access your messages from multiple devices at any time.
• End-to-End Encryption: Secret Chats use encryption for maximum privacy.
• Large Group Chats: Host massive group conversations with robust admin tools.
• Customizable: Create custom stickers, bots, and themes to personalize your experience.
• Free and Ad-Free: Telegram is free to use and does not show advertisements.

Is Telegram Safe?

Telegram emphasizes security and privacy. It uses MTProto encryption protocol and offers Secret Chats for end-to-end encryption. However, regular cloud chats are encrypted server-to-client, not end-to-end. For maximum security, users should utilize Secret Chats for sensitive communication.

How to Get Started with Telegram

Starting with Telegram is simple:

1. Download Telegram from the official website or your app store.
2. Install and open the app.
3. Register with your phone number.
4. Set up your profile with a name and optional photo.
5. Start messaging friends, joining groups, or exploring channels!

Telegram vs Other Messengers

Compared to WhatsApp, Signal, or Messenger, Telegram offers unique benefits:

• Unlimited Storage: Messages and media are stored securely in the cloud.
• Large Communities: No other app supports groups as large as Telegram.
• Open Platform: Developers can create powerful bots and tools.

These features make Telegram ideal not only for personal chats but also for professional and community communication.

FAQs About Telegram

Is Telegram Really Free?

Yes, Telegram is completely free. They fund their operations through donations and premium features for business users, without displaying ads.

Can I Use Telegram Without a Phone Number?

No, you need a phone number to register initially, but you can later hide it from your profile for privacy.

Is Telegram Better Than WhatsApp?

It depends on your needs. If you value large group communication, cloud storage, and openness, Telegram may be a better fit. However, WhatsApp offers full end-to-end encryption by default for all chats.

Now that you know what Telegram is, why not try it today? Stay tuned to Webgram for more tips and updates about the Telegram world!