Best WhatsApp Alternatives for Linux Users

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps with over two billion active users worldwide . Many of us rely on it for personal chats, sharing media, and even work communication.

However, after the recent privacy policy update, WhatsApp announced it would collect device info, IP addresses, profile pictures, and status updates - and share them with Facebook, Instagram, and other partner companies.

This raised serious concerns because Facebook is known for selling user data for profit. As many users lose trust in WhatsApp, it’s time to explore better, privacy-focused alternatives.

Best WhatsApp Alternatives ​

Two top messaging apps stand out as secure and trustworthy replacements:

• Signal
• Telegram

Both of these apps are free, cross-platform, and focus on user privacy. Below, we’ll show you how to install them easily on Linux (using Kali Linux as an example, but the same applies to Ubuntu, Mint, Elementary, etc.).

---

Install Signal on Linux ​

Signal is an open-source, privacy-focused app designed for secure one-on-one and group chats. It offers end-to-end encryption and strong data protection. Even Edward Snowden and Elon Musk recommend it!

Step 1: Add Signal’s Public Key​

Run the following command to add Signal’s official signing key:

wget -O- https://updates.signal.org/desktop/apt/keys.asc | sudo apt-key add -

Step 2: Add Signal Repository​

Now, add the Signal repository to your sources list:

echo "deb [arch=amd64] https://updates.signal.org/desktop/apt xenial main" | sudo tee -a /etc/apt/sources.list.d/signal-xenial.list

Step 3: Update Your System​

Run this command to update your packages:

sudo apt-get update

Step 4: Install Signal Desktop​

Finally, install Signal with this command:

sudo apt install signal-desktop

Once installed, you can find Signal Desktop in your application list. Scan the QR code using your phone to link your account. Unlike WhatsApp Web, Signal allows you to use your PC as a standalone device - chats are stored locally, not on their servers .

---

Install Telegram on Linux ​

Telegram is another secure and feature-rich messaging app. It’s fast, free, and supports all major platforms - including Linux (both 32-bit and 64-bit systems).

Step 1: Download Telegram​

Visit the official Telegram website and download the Linux version (choose 64-bit if applicable). You’ll get a .tar.xz compressed file.

Step 2: Extract and Launch​

Go to your Downloads folder, extract the file, and open the “Telegram” binary. Double-click it to start the app.

You can either log in as a new user or link your mobile Telegram via QR code . It will also show desktop notifications for new messages.

Note: This doesn’t install Telegram system-wide. Don’t delete the binary file, as your desktop shortcut depends on it.

---

Final Thoughts ​

Both Signal and Telegram are excellent alternatives to WhatsApp, especially if you care about your privacy .

While Telegram offers more flexibility and features, Signal provides stronger end-to-end encryption. Personally, we recommend Signal for serious privacy enthusiasts.

Tell us which one you prefer in the comments - and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and GitHub for more Linux tutorials and updates.