WhatsApp Web and Desktop Version Login Tutorial and Usage Guide

Author: SaleSmartly

As the overseas version of WeChat, WhatsApp is an important bridge for daily external communication for people going abroad. Due to its timeliness and convenience, it has gradually replaced email and become the main tool for cross-border e-commerce and foreign trade customers to communicate.

To better serve users, WhatsApp launched WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp PC in 2015 and 2016 respectively, allowing users to reply to messages directly through computers or tablets, rather than just on mobile phones. This feature is especially useful for businesses because they usually work in front of computers and may miss messages on their phones. The launch of WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp PC will undoubtedly improve the communication efficiency between employees and customers.

 

How to Log in to WhatsApp Web

1. Click on the WhatsApp web link and you will see a page with a QR code.

2. Open the WhatsApp mobile app,

  • Android: Find the QR code logo on the settings page, click it and find [Scan QR code].
  • iPhone: Go to Settings > [Linked Devices] > [Link a Device]. 

3. After the scan is successful, confirm the login. Then you can sync WhatsApp conversations on your computer.

 

How to Log in to WhatsApp on PC

WhatsApp also provides a desktop app for Windows and macOS. Here's how to use it:

1. Download the app from the official WhatsApp website.

2. After the installation is complete, scan the QR code and log in according to the instructions above.

 

Useful WhatsApp Web & Desktop Shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts can greatly boost your reply speed and navigation. Common shortcuts include:

  • Ctrl + N: Start a new chat

  • Ctrl + Shift + ]: Next chat

  • Ctrl + Shift + [: Previous chat

  • Ctrl + Shift + M: Mute/unmute

  • Ctrl + Backspace: Delete chat

  • Ctrl + Shift + U: Mark as unread

  • Ctrl + E: Search contacts

  • Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a group

  • Ctrl + P: Open your profile

 

Differences Between the Web Version and the Desktop Version

1. The computer version is more secure

WhatsApp desktop version is safer than using the WhatsApp web version in a browser because WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption. If you use the desktop version, third parties cannot read it, which can better protect the privacy of information.

 

2. The PC version has more features

Although WhatsApp Web provides many conveniences for users, it has some functional limitations. For example, users cannot create new groups, change group information, or send WhatsApp status updates on the Web version. Video calls and voice calls are also currently unavailable. In addition, if the phone is not connected to the Internet, the Web version will not be able to receive or send messages.

 

3. The web version supports multiple device logins

Starting from November 2021, WhatsApp Business Web supports multi-person use and can connect up to 4 devices (limited to 1 mobile phone). This is more important for businesses, especially for those who need multiple customer service staff.

 

How SaleSmartly Enhances WhatsApp Experience

Multi-Device Management

Although the WhatsApp web version can be logged in by 4 devices, it is easy to reply to customers at the same time due to device permission issues. In addition, 4 devices often cannot meet the needs of users. A WhatsApp Business account may require more than a dozen or even dozens of employees to maintain. At this time, we can use SaleSmartly to manage WhatsApp messages. The access method is very simple. Select the IP address of the account and scan the code to connect.

 

In addition, SaleSmartly can also link to the WhatsApp API number, provide self-service number purchase/registration or third-party access, and manage all WhatsApp information in one system.

 

Automatic response

SaleSmartly system can realize automatic replies by editing the AI corpus, after inputting questions and corresponding answers. Whenever a customer asks a corresponding question, SaleSmartly can automatically reply to the customer directly on WhatsApp, reducing the burden of manual customer service.

In addition, you can also set up corresponding automated processes to realize operations such as leaving information, evaluating, sending messages, sending emails, and assigning customer service.

 

Bulk messaging

SaleSmartly allows you to send group messages through the WhatsApp APP and WhatsApp API. The group message method is very simple. You just need to select the audience and edit the content. It supports multiple forms such as text, pictures, attachments, etc. You can also set the frequency of sending messages yourself to avoid the risk of being blocked due to frequent message sending.

 

Real-time translation

When dealing with overseas customers, it is easy to have language barriers. SaleSmartly has built-in translation software that can automatically translate different languages during conversations, allowing both parties to communicate without barriers.

 

Whether you use WhatsApp Web or Desktop, WhatsApp continues evolving to meet business communication needs. With SaleSmartly, companies can overcome device limits, automate service, and improve collaboration at scale.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is it safe to use WhatsApp Web?
A: WhatsApp Web uses end-to-end encryption and stays synced with your mobile device, offering a relatively high level of security. However, it's recommended to use it only on personal or trusted devices. Always log out after each session to reduce the risk of account information being exposed, especially when using public or shared computers.

Q2: Can I use WhatsApp Web without my phone being online?
A: If you've enabled multi-device mode, WhatsApp Web will continue to work even if your phone is offline. However, if this feature isn’t turned on, any disconnection from the internet or powering off your phone will cause WhatsApp Web to disconnect. To ensure stable access, enable the "Linked Devices" in your WhatsApp mobile settings.

 

Further Reading

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Last modified: 2025-05-07Powered by