How to Install Telegram on Linux in 2025 (with Step-by-Step Instructions)
Telegram is a fast, secure, and feature-rich messaging platform used by millions worldwide. Installing Telegram on Linux is straightforward, and this guide walks you through the updated process for various distributions.
Telegram supports messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, group chats, and broadcasting channels. It’s a privacy-focused app with cross-platform support, available on Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Let's get started!
Before We Begin
Make sure:
- You’re connected to the internet
- You have administrator (sudo) privileges
- Your system is up to date
Installing Telegram on Ubuntu and Debian-based Systems
Open your terminal and run the following commands:
1. Update your package list:
sudo apt update2. Install Telegram:
sudo apt install telegram-desktopInstalling Telegram on Fedora, CentOS, and other DNF-based Systems
For Fedora, RHEL 8+, CentOS Stream, etc., use these steps:
1. Update package metadata:
sudo dnf update2. Install Telegram:
sudo dnf install telegram-desktoptelegram-desktopWhat You Can Do With Telegram on Linux
- Send and receive messages, images, videos, and documents
- Make voice and video calls
- Join and create groups (interactive chatrooms)
- Subscribe to channels (broadcast-style feeds)
- Sync messages across devices
- Use secret chats with end-to-end encryption
- Set self-destructing messages for added privacy
Telegram’s design is lightweight and works well even on older Linux machines.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is Telegram available as a Snap or Flatpak?
A: Yes. You can install Telegram via Snap or Flatpak if you prefer containerized apps:
# Snap (Ubuntu, Debian)
sudo snap install telegram-desktop
# Flatpak (Fedora, Arch, etc.)
flatpak install flathub org.telegram.desktop
- Q: How do I update Telegram on Linux?
A: If installed via APT or DNF, just run your system's regular update commands. For Snap or Flatpak, use:
sudo snap refresh telegram-desktop
# or
flatpak update org.telegram.desktop- Q: Can I use Telegram CLI instead of the desktop app?
A: Yes, there’s a lightweight CLI tool called tg. It’s maintained by the community and useful for servers or minimal environments. - Q: Is Telegram open source?
A: Telegram’s client is open source, but the server-side code is proprietary. - Q: What if telegram-desktop isn't found in my package manager?
A: Ensure your repositories are enabled and up to date. Alternatively, download the binary from the official Telegram website.
Conclusion
Telegram on Linux is quick to install, easy to use, and brings full-feature messaging to your open-source environment. Whether you're part of a community group, coordinating team tasks, or just staying in touch, Telegram makes it simple and secure.
By following the steps in this guide, you'll have Telegram installed and running in minutes — no matter your Linux distribution.
