Signal is a free messaging app known for its strong privacy. All your messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted, and Signal keeps as little data about you as possible. It's developed by the non-profit Signal Foundation. Here's how to install Signal on your phone and computer, and how to set it up securely.
What is Signal?
- Messages, photos, files, voice and video calls, all end-to-end encrypted.
- Free and ad-free, funded by donations.
- Available for iPhone, Android, Windows, macOS and Linux.
Install Signal on your phone
- Download Signal from the App Store or Google Play.
- Enter your phone number and confirm with the code you get by text.
- Choose a Signal PIN. You use it to restore your profile and settings when you get a new phone.
- Set your profile name and optionally a photo.
Install Signal on your computer
The desktop app always works together with Signal on your phone, so install the phone app first.
- Download Signal Desktop from signal.org/download.
- Open the app. You'll see a QR code.
- Open Signal on your phone and go to Settings > Linked devices.
- Tap Link new device (or the plus sign) and scan the QR code.
- Give your computer a name and click Finish.
Privacy settings to know
You'll find these in Settings > Privacy. The exact names may vary by version.
- Phone number: choose who can see your number and who can find you by it. With a username you can connect without sharing your number.
- Read receipts: turn them off if you don't want others to see that you've read their message.
- Disappearing messages: have messages disappear automatically after a set time, per chat or by default for new chats.
- Screen lock: unlock Signal with Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode.
- Hide screen in app switcher: hides Signal's content when you switch between apps.
Protect your account
- Registration lock: anyone trying to register your number on another device also needs your Signal PIN. Turn it on in Settings > Account.
- PIN reminders: Signal occasionally asks for your PIN so you don't forget it.
- Safety number: verify the safety number with your contact in a chat to make sure you're talking to the right person.
Set up notifications
Go to Settings > Notifications to choose the sound and content of notifications. If you don't want the sender or text on your lock screen, choose a setting that only says there's a new message.
Also see how to install WhatsApp on your Windows PC or Mac and Microsoft Teams vs WhatsApp.
Nederlandstalige versie: Signal installeren en veilig instellen op je gsm en computer