What is Telegram Messenger, and how does it work?

Key takeaways

• Telegram offers robust privacy features like end-to-end encryption in secret chats, making it a popular choice for those seeking secure communication.
• Beyond messaging, Telegram provides various features like cloud-based storage, large group chats, channels, bots and file sharing, catering to both personal and professional needs.
• Telegram has become a hub for cryptocurrency communities, offering a platform for networking, collaboration and real-time updates.
• Telegram’s application programming interfaces (APIs) allow developers to create custom bots and apps, expanding its functionality and making it a versatile platform for various applications.

Launched in 2013, Telegram is a popular messaging app known for its emphasis on speed, privacy and security. It allows you to send messages, photos, videos and files of all types. Plus, you can create groups or channels to broadcast to an audience. These groups and channels are popular spots for crypto enthusiasts to meet, share news and chat about projects. 

You might be wondering why you should use Telegram when apps like WhatsApp offer similar services. What makes Telegram different is its private chat feature called “Secret Chats.” Additionally, it’s a cloud-based platform, meaning you can effortlessly access your messages across multiple devices.

In this Telegram guide for beginners, you’ll learn more about the Telegram Messenger app, its origin, history and how it works. We’ll also compare it with other messaging apps and understand its benefits and drawbacks.

What is Telegram?

Known for its functionality, speed and security, Telegram is a cloud-based messaging service launched by brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov in 2013. The Durov brothers were also the founders of the Russian social network VKontakte (VK). After VK came under government pressure, the Durov brothers developed the Telegram messaging app, which is focused on freedom of speech and privacy.

Telegram has emerged as a central hub for cryptocurrency discussions and communities. Its user-friendly interface and robust features have made it a preferred platform for crypto enthusiasts and professionals alike. You’ll find it all discussed on Telegram, from new coin launches to market crashes.

As of July 2024, Telegram’s headquarters and development team are based in Dubai. The app’s servers are distributed globally, and the company behind the Telegram messaging app, Telegram FZ-LLC, is also registered in Dubai. 

So, how did Telegram evolve into the privacy-centric app it is today?

Telegram’s emphasis on security features, including end-to-end encryption and the option for users to use Secret Chats — where messages self-destruct after a set time — has significantly enhanced its appeal. These features have made Telegram a preferred app among privacy-conscious users. As of July 2024, Telegram’s user base has surpassed 950 million people. Moreover, the app has a geographically diverse user base with concentrations in Europe, the Middle East and South Asia. 

The platform has also ventured into blockchain through initiatives like the Telegram Open Network, which has since rebranded as The Open Network (TON). Originally envisioned as a blockchain platform, TON aimed to deliver scalable and user-friendly decentralized services with Toncoin (TON) as its native cryptocurrency. However, due to legal challenges, Telegram had to step back from directly developing TON in 2020.

Despite this, the project has continued to evolve through open-source contributions, adapting and growing with community involvement. From non-fungible tokens and decentralized finance (DeFi) to games like Hamster Kombat, TON is pushing the boundaries of what a messaging app can do.

Did you know? Telegram-based tap-to-earn games offer a unique way to earn cryptocurrency while enjoying casual gameplay. They combine gaming with economic incentives, creating a new and engaging experience for players.

Key features of Telegram

Telegram’s distinct set of features include:

• Cloud-based messaging: Telegram saves your media and messages on the cloud, which implies that you won’t lose any data when accessing your chats on different devices, such as a computer, tablet or phone. Since everything is synchronized in real time, you’re never behind.
• Security and encryption: With end-to-end encryption, the Telegram chat app ensures that only you (the sender) and the recipient can see the messages when using Secret Chats. These encrypted chats are inaccessible even by Telegram. Regular chats are also encrypted but can be decrypted by Telegram.
• Groups and channels: Telegram is ideal for large communities or organizations since it lets you create group chats with up to 200,000 members. Additionally, its channel features allow you to broadcast messages to unlimited subscribers. These capabilities make it a practical tool for sharing content, news or updates to a large audience.
• Bots and automation: Telegram supports the integration of bots, which are automated programs designed to perform a variety of tasks such as managing to-dos and delivering news updates. These features enhance Telegram’s utility, making it a versatile platform for both individual and organizational use.
• Sharing of files: Telegram supports multiple file formats, including documents, videos and music. It allows you to share items up to 2 gigabytes (GB) in size, facilitating collaboration between remote teams working on a project.

Who can use Telegram?

Both individuals and businesses can use Telegram as a tool for communication and a platform for professional interactions, such as customer service. Let’s understand how Telegram is used in individual and professional setups.

For individuals 

Imagine Bob in Canada and Alice in Iceland both use Telegram to keep in touch with their families worldwide. They have large families, so they created a group on Telegram to share daily updates, photos and videos. Size is never an issue because this group allows up to 200,000 members.

Creating groups is an everyday use case for individuals. However, you can also use channels with unlimited subscribers, primarily for broadcasting messages to a large audience.

One day, Alice needs to send Bob private documents, such as a copy of her passport. They utilize Telegram’s end-to-end encrypted Secret Chats function, ensuring that only Alice and Bob can read the messages and view the shared files. Secret Chats’ self-destruct feature provides additional privacy, with messages vanishing after a predetermined time. 

Did you know? Secret Chats are device-specific and will only be available on the device where you start them, and they will be lost if you log out. These chats are available on Android, iOS and desktop apps. To use Secret Chats on Telegram, open the profile of the person you want to chat with, select the button with three dots (sometimes called “More”) and choose “Start Secret Chat.” 

For businesses

Suppose you are a small retailer specializing in Bitcoin (BTC) merchandise (primarily T-shirts with the Bitcoin symbol) utilizing Telegram to manage internal communications and consumer interactions. Here’s how it works:

• Bot-powered customer service: A Telegram bot, an automated program, automates basic tasks like order tracking and product browsing, freeing up customer service staff for more complex inquiries.
• Private group: A dedicated group for internal discussions and coordination. Messages are delivered quickly on Telegram, which ensures urgent matters are dealt with promptly.
• Marketing through channels: A Telegram channel lets the retailer directly communicate with customers about newly launched BTC-focused T-shirts, promotions and updates.

How does the crypto industry embrace Telegram?

So, how does the crypto industry really take to Telegram? It plays a central role, serving as a hub for communication, collaboration and information sharing. Here’s how it’s commonly used:

• Community building and engagement: Imagine Telegram as a virtual conference hall for crypto projects. Here, project-specific communities can set up channels and groups, creating dedicated spaces for cryptocurrency enthusiasts to discuss developments, share news and connect.
• Networking and collaboration: Whether you want to stay informed or find collaborators, Telegram provides a platform to discuss the latest news, exchange tips and connect with potential partners for new projects.
• Real-time updates: Need the latest news on market moves or project progress? Telegram channels let you stay in the loop with real-time updates.
• Customer service: Telegram is a customer service solution that offers a direct and efficient way for users to receive quick answers and engage with your team.
• Trading bots: Telegram trading bots aid you in managing investments, tracking market prices and even running group polls. 
• Tap-to-earn games: Telegram hosts tap-to-earn games where you can earn crypto while playing. It’s a mix of entertainment and earning potential.

How Telegram works?

Telegram was designed to make messaging fast and reliable without overloading its servers. Let’s understand its messaging mechanics:

How you send and receive messages

At the heart of Telegram is the client-server model. When you send a message to someone, it first goes to Telegram’s servers, which act as messengers. These messengers then carry your message to the person you are contacting. 

This system sends messages and stores them securely in the cloud. So, if you log into your account from a laptop or using a new phone number, you can still see all your old messages.

Cloud Chats vs. Secret Chats

• Cloud or regular chats: When you send a message, it’s encrypted but not end-to-end, meaning Telegram’s servers can decrypt it as it is accessible via servers. 
• Secret Chats: These chats are end-to-end encrypted, meaning no one else, not even Telegram, can read or decrypt the messages. Only the person they are meant for can access them. These messages aren’t backed up in the cloud and are only stored on the devices involved in the conversation.

Peer-to-peer communication

Telegram also enables peer-to-peer communication. For example, suppose you and your friend are using the same WiFi network. Telegram allows you to communicate directly without your messages being redirected via servers, which reduces delays and makes your chats quick.  

Did you know? Telegram is not end-to-end encrypted by default because it offers two types of chats: Secret Chats, which are fully end-to-end encrypted, and Cloud Chats, which provide secure cloud backups. Unlike apps that rely on less secure third-party backups, this dual approach allows Telegram to provide both privacy and convenience.

Benefits of Telegram

Here are a few advantages of using Telegram:

• Cloud-based messaging: Sync your conversations in real time and access them from any device.
• Large group capacity: Ideal for large communities, this feature allows groups to have up to 200,000 members.
• Robust security: Secret Chats offer end-to-end encryption and the option for messages to self-destruct after a set time.
• Extensive file sharing: You can transfer files of up to 2 GB with all file formats supported.
• Customization: Personalize your experience with themes, chat backdrops and other personalization options.
• Bots and automation: Use bots to add new functionality and automate tasks to improve your discussions.

Drawbacks of Telegram

Like any other app, Telegram also has some disadvantages:

• Not encrypted by default: Regular chats are not encrypted end-to-end by default.
• Potential privacy concerns: Signing up requires a phone number, which could be a privacy concern for some.
• Complexity: The app’s wide array of features might feel overwhelming to new or less tech-savvy users.
• Starting Secret Chats: If you want an extra layer of privacy with end-to-end encryption, you’ll need to manually select Secret Chats for each conversation, which can be a bit of a hassle, especially if privacy is a top priority for you at all times.
• Device-specific Secret Chats: Do you have Secret Chats on your phone? You can’t just pick it up on your laptop or tablet. Each chat is tied to the device where it was started, which can interrupt your flow if you switch devices often.

Telegram vs. Whatsapp vs. Discord vs. Signal: Key differences

When you consider messaging apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord and Signal, each offer unique advantages. 

Telegram is used to manage large communities because it supports massive group chats and is cloud-based, so your messages sync across all your devices. WhatsApp keeps things simple with minimal customization and end-to-end encryption as the standard, focusing on secure, straightforward communication.

Then you have Discord, a favorite among gamers thanks to its voice channels and server-based setup, making it ideal for building game-centric communities. On the other hand, if privacy is your top priority, Signal might be your best bet. It’s known for strong encryption and collecting minimal user data.

So, it really boils down to what you value most in a messaging app. Your priorities will guide which app is the best fit for you. 

Here is a brief comparison of the features offered by Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord and Signal:

Did you know? According to Cybersecurity researcher John Jackson, two vulnerabilities (CVE-2023-24069 and CVE-2023-24068) in the Signal desktop client could be exploited for espionage across Windows, MacOS and Linux. Stay cautious, as all versions up to 6.2.0 are affected.

Telegram APIs

Telegram APIs make the chat app versatile. Imagine being able to program Telegram to perform tasks beyond just sending messages, such as answering inquiries, setting reminders, or even engaging in gameplay. The Telegram Bot API can help with that. It can be used by developers to create unique chatbots that communicate with people and offer a variety of services.

If you are a developer, Telegram API for apps allows you to tap into Telegram’s robust infrastructure to build your own applications. This means you can integrate features such as secure messaging, instant file sharing, and the ability to broadcast messages to thousands via channels.

Even if you are just curious about how Telegram works, these tools turn it into more than just a place to chat. They let you add special features that customize your communication, making Telegram a powerful tool for more than just sending messages.

Is Telegram safe to use?

If you’re a Telegram user or looking to explore it but are concerned about the security of your messages on Telegram, it’s worth knowing both sides of the story.

A 2016 Gizmodo article criticized Telegram’s encryption methods, claiming that not all chats are adequately secured. Similarly, following Durov’s arrest, cryptographer and Johns Hopkins University professor Matthew Green criticized Telegram’s end-to-end encryption feature, stating that it’s “oddly difficult” for non-experts to enable.

However, Telegram officials have clarified that all messages on the platform are encrypted. Secret Chats offer end-to-end encryption, while Cloud Chats are also encrypted but stored on Telegram’s servers (distributed data centers worldwide). 

This adds an extra layer of security because this setup requires multiple legal approvals across different jurisdictions to access any data. Does this multilayered approach to security protect Telegram from legal obstacles?

Well, it doesn’t necessarily shield it from legal scrutiny.

The complexities around legal access to data, combined with Telegram’s policy of not sharing any data with governments, played a role in Durov’s arrest in France on charges related to organized crime. This incident has triggered a wave of discussions and concerns among tech enthusiasts and Telegram users, highlighting the ongoing challenges at the intersection of technology, privacy and law enforcement.

While Telegram defends its security protocols as all businesses do, you should understand the differences in chat settings and choose the chat type based on the sensitivity of the information you share via the platform. Read the privacy policy to find out if you are comfortable with how your data is handled, and consider both convenience and privacy when choosing your messaging platform.

Does default encryption really matter?

After learning about Telegram and reading about encryption, you might be wondering if default encryption really matters.

Well, it depends on whether your preference is for privacy or ease of use.

If you prioritize privacy, opting for end-to-end encryption could be a drawback. Unlike WhatsApp or Signal, where end-to-end encryption is always on, Telegram won’t automatically provide it.

Conversely, if you value seamless access to messages across devices, you won’t bother with default encryption, and Telegram’s approach may be acceptable to you. 

The question of whether default encryption matters or not is linked to broader conversations about digital privacy, security and tech companies’ responsibilities to protect their users while complying with global regulations. As messaging apps continue to evolve, how they implement encryption will remain a critical topic of discussion.