Our verdict: Signal is the messenger to choose when privacy matters more than features. Messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted, and the app is run by a non-profit with no ads. On Windows it only works as a companion to Signal on your phone.
About Signal
Signal is developed by the Signal Technology Foundation, a US non-profit, and its desktop app is open source under the GNU AGPL v3. It has no ads and is funded by donations.
Signal Desktop cannot register an account on its own. You install Signal on an Android phone or iPhone first, then link the Windows app by scanning a QR code. When linking, you can transfer your chats and the last 45 days of media. Your phone must come online at least once every 30 days, or linked devices are disconnected.
What it does well
- End-to-end encryption. Messages and calls are encrypted so only the people in the chat can read them.
- Linked devices. Use Signal on up to five linked devices next to your phone.
- History transfer. Copy chats and recent media from your phone when you link the desktop app.
- Group chats. Encrypted group conversations shared across your phone and desktop.
- Disappearing messages. Set chats to delete messages automatically after a chosen time.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who want private messaging with friends and family who also use Signal.
Look elsewhere
Users without a smartphone, or groups that need large public communities and bots.
Pros and cons
Pros
- End-to-end encrypted by default
- Open source and non-profit
- No ads
- Chat history can sync from your phone
Cons
- Requires Signal on a phone to set up
- Linked desktop disconnects if the phone stays offline for 30 days
- Fewer contacts use it than mainstream messengers
How to install Signal
Install Signal on your phone first. Then download Signal for Windows from signal.org or the Microsoft Store, open it and scan the QR code with your phone under Settings → Linked devices → Link a new device. Choose whether to transfer your message history.
Questions about Signal
Is Signal free?
Yes. Signal is free, open source and has no ads. It is supported by donations.
Can I use Signal on Windows without a phone?
No. Signal Desktop must be linked to Signal on an Android phone or iPhone, and registering on desktop is not supported.
How many computers can I link to Signal?
Up to five linked devices per account, including desktops and tablets.
