Guides5 min read
WhatsApp Web, Desktop and Linked Devices: A Login Guide for Teams
How to use WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business on your computer, how linked devices work, and what to do when several people need access.
Answering customers on a phone keyboard gets tiring fast. WhatsApp Web and the desktop apps let you work from your computer — and linked devices let you do so without keeping the phone nearby.
Logging in to WhatsApp Web or Desktop
- Open web.whatsapp.com in your browser, or install the WhatsApp desktop app.
- On your phone, open WhatsApp (or WhatsApp Business) and go to Linked devices in the settings.
- Tap 'Link a device' and scan the QR code shown on your computer.
- If scanning isn't possible, many versions also offer linking with your phone number and a code.
How linked devices work
- Each account can be linked to several companion devices — computers, browsers and, in some cases, tablets.
- Companion devices keep working when your phone is offline for a while; you'll need to reconnect the phone periodically.
- Messages are end-to-end encrypted on every device.
- You can see and log out linked devices from your phone at any time.
Security tips for business accounts
- Turn on two-step verification with a PIN.
- Log out of shared or public computers after use.
- Review linked devices regularly and remove anything you don't recognise.
- Never share verification codes — WhatsApp will never ask you for them.
Linked devices help one person work on more screens. A team inbox helps more people work on one number.
When several people need access
Linked devices are designed for one person on multiple screens. For a team, you'll quickly need assignments, internal notes, permissions and reporting. That's what the WhatsApp Business API with a shared inbox provides — every agent with their own login, all on one business number.
