Get WhatsApp Desktop Directly From Trusted Sources
When it comes to downloading apps, going straight to the source is always the safest bet. I’ve tested these methods multiple times, and they never let me down.
Download From WhatsApp’s Official Website
This is my go-to method for any app—official websites are the least likely to have malware. Here’s how to do it:
Go to WhatsApp’s official site: Open your favorite browser (Chrome, Firefox, whatever you use) and type in https://www.whatsapp.com/download. Before you do anything else, check the address bar—there should be a small padlock icon next to the URL, which means the site is secure (HTTPS). I always double-check this because fake sites often use HTTP, which is risky. Pick your OS version: Once you’re on the download page, scroll down until you see the section for desktop apps. You’ll find options for Windows (64-bit or 32-bit) and Mac. If you’re not sure which Windows version you have, right-click on your Start button and select “System”—it’ll show you whether it’s 64 or 32-bit. For Mac users, you don’t have to worry about this; just click the Mac option. Install and verify the app: Click the download button for your OS, and wait for the file to finish downloading. Once it’s done, open the file. For Windows users, a setup wizard will pop up—follow the on-screen instructions (it’s pretty straightforward: next, next, finish). For Mac users, drag the WhatsApp icon into your Applications folder. Then, open WhatsApp Desktop—you’ll see a QR code. Grab your phone, open WhatsApp, go to Settings > Linked Devices > Link a Device, and scan the code. That’s it—you’re ready to use WhatsApp Desktop.
Grab It From Your Computer’s App Store
If you prefer using app stores (since they vet apps before listing them), this method is perfect for you. Let’s break it down:
Open your app store: For Windows users, that’s the Microsoft Store—you can find it in your taskbar (the little shopping bag icon). For Mac users, it’s the App Store (the blue icon with an A). I love using app stores because they automatically update the app for you, so you don’t have to worry about missing any security patches. Search for WhatsApp Desktop: Type “WhatsApp Desktop” into the search bar. When the results come up, look for the app with the official WhatsApp logo (green background, white phone icon) and the developer name “WhatsApp Inc.” Fake apps often have similar names—like “WhatsApp Plus Desktop” or “WhatsApp Pro”—so make sure you check the details carefully. Last month, my sister almost downloaded a fake app until I pointed out the developer name was wrong. Install and launch the app: Click the “Install” button (or “Get” on Microsoft Store) and wait for it to download. Once it’s done, click “Open” to launch the app. Just like the official website version, you’ll need to scan the QR code with your phone to link your account. The app store version is great because it integrates seamlessly with your computer—you can pin it to your taskbar or dock for easy access.
I use both methods depending on the situation. For my work laptop, I downloaded it from the Microsoft Store because it’s easier to manage updates. For my personal laptop, I used the official website because I wanted to customize the installation folder. Either way, both methods are safe and reliable.
Avoid Common Pitfalls When Downloading WhatsApp Desktop
Even if you use trusted sources, there are still some mistakes you can make. Let’s talk about how to avoid them.
Spot Fake Download Links Easily
Fake links are everywhere, but with a few tricks, you can spot them quickly.
Look for HTTPS and padlock: Any site you download from should have the HTTPS prefix and a padlock icon in the address bar. If it doesn’t, it’s not secure—close the tab immediately. I once clicked a link from a Facebook group that had HTTP, and my antivirus popped up a warning before I could download anything. Skip pop-up download buttons: When you’re on a page, avoid clicking any bright-colored pop-ups that say “Download Now” or “Get the Latest Version.” These are usually ads, not the real download button. The official download buttons are usually plain and match the site’s design—like the green button on WhatsApp’s official site. Verify developer info: If you’re ever unsure, check the developer name. It should be “WhatsApp Inc.” Fake apps often have names like “WhatsApp Tools” or “Desktop WhatsApp”—stay away from those. They might have malware that steals your messages or personal data.
Check For Malware After Download
Even if you think you downloaded from a safe source, it’s always a good idea to double-check.
Use your antivirus first: Before opening the downloaded file, run a scan with your antivirus software. Windows users can use Windows Defender, and Mac users can use XProtect (or a third-party app like Malwarebytes). I do this every time I download something—better safe than sorry. If the scan finds any threats, delete the file right away. Check file size against official: Go back to WhatsApp’s official site and note the file size for your OS. Compare it with the file you downloaded. For example, the Windows 64-bit version is around 150MB in
Avoid extra permissions: When installing the app, if it asks for permissions that don’t make sense (like access to your camera or microphone without a reason), cancel the installation. WhatsApp Desktop only needs access to your internet connection and file storage (to send attachments). Any extra permissions are a red flag.
Last quarter, I helped my neighbor download WhatsApp Desktop. She had tried a third-party site earlier, and her antivirus found a trojan. We used the official website method, and it worked perfectly. She told me later that she felt much safer knowing she got it from a trusted source.
WhatsApp Web Common Questions
Can I use WhatsApp Desktop without downloading it?
Yes, you can use WhatsApp Web instead of downloading the desktop app. WhatsApp Web is a browser-based version that lets you access your WhatsApp account on your laptop or desktop. To use it, go to https://www.ws-whatsappsweb.com/ and scan the QR code with your phone (just like the desktop app). I use WhatsApp Web when I’m working on a public computer—like at a library—because I don’t want to download the app there. It’s super convenient, but remember that you need an internet connection on both your phone and computer to use it. Also, make sure you log out after using it on a public device to keep your messages secure.
Is WhatsApp Desktop free to download?
Absolutely! WhatsApp Desktop is completely free to download and use—just like the mobile app. You don’t have to pay any fees for it from official sources (like the website or app stores). I’ve been using it for years and never spent a dime on it. However, be wary of sites that ask you to pay for WhatsApp Desktop—those are definitely fake. They might promise extra features like ad-free messaging or unlimited storage, but WhatsApp doesn’t charge for any of its core features. If you see a site asking for money, close it immediately and go to the official sources.
What should I do if WhatsApp Desktop won’t install?
If WhatsApp Desktop won’t install on your computer, try these steps. First, check if your computer meets the minimum system requirements: Windows needs 10 or later, Mac needs macOS 10.13 or later. If your OS is outdated, update it first—this fixes most compatibility issues. Second, make sure you have enough storage space: WhatsApp Desktop takes around 150MB, so delete unnecessary files (like old photos or unused apps) if you’re low. Third, switch sources: if you tried the website, use the app store (or vice versa). I once had trouble installing from the Microsoft Store, so I downloaded from WhatsApp’s official site and it worked right away. If none of these help, you can check WhatsApp’s help center for more troubleshooting tips—they have detailed guides for common issues.
