In recent years, WhatsApp has introduced several new features to make accessing the platform. Until recently, accessing WhatsApp Web or Desktop required scanning a QR code with your primary smartphone. Today, however, there’s a new method that allows you to log in simply using your phone number. This method is particularly useful for users who face issues with their phone’s camera, travel frequently, or need to access WhatsApp on multiple devices without constantly relying on QR code scans.
Phone number login was designed to solve common problems users face. For example, if the phone’s camera isn’t working, scanning the QR code becomes impossible. This system also reduces the risk of cloning, as a potential attacker can’t easily obtain the login code without direct access to the primary device.
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This mode is also particularly useful for those who use secondary devices, such as shared tablets or computers, allowing more secure and controlled access without depending on the camera’s functionality or temporary technical issues with the phone.
The phone number method is available for both WhatsApp Web (accessible directly from the browser) and WhatsApp Desktop (the official Windows application). Currently, however, Mac users cannot use this method: on macOS, the QR code is still required, although it is still possible to use the web version from the browser. However, using the web version on Mac allows you to access almost all the main features, such as sending messages, sharing media files, and participating in group chats, thus offering a secure and convenient alternative until direct login via phone number is also available for macOS.
The importance of the primary mobile phone
It’s important to clarify that, even with access via phone number, the primary phone remains essential. You can’t set up a new connection without confirming the operation from the app installed on your smartphone. This step is for security purposes, preventing unauthorized access by third parties.
How does connection via phone number work in practice? The mechanism is simple: you enter your phone number into the PC interface, receive an alphanumeric code on the screen, and enter it into the mobile app. Once the match is verified, access is approved, and conversations automatically appear on the computer. This replaces the use of QR codes with a system based on numeric codes and direct confirmation.
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How to log in to WhatsApp Web with your phone number:
To use WhatsApp on a browser, start by opening web.whatsapp.com. On the homepage, select “Connect with phone number,” then enter your country and phone number linked to your WhatsApp account. A unique alphanumeric code appears, which should only be entered within the WhatsApp app on your smartphone and never shared. Your phone will notify you of a login attempt from a new device. You must confirm this by authenticating with a PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID. Once confirmed and the code is verified, the browser refreshes and your chats become accessible. Access remains active until you log out or revoke it manually.
The desktop client for Windows follows a similar process. After downloading the official app from Microsoft Store or WhatsApp’s website, open it and click “Get Started.” Choose “Connect with phone number,” enter your number, and receive a verification code on your smartphone. The PC then shows an alphanumeric code, which you enter on your phone after receiving a notification. Upon confirmation, the desktop app syncs all your conversations and functions like the mobile version, supporting notifications, voice messages, and media files for a seamless experience.
Step by step
You will be able to use the app on Windows with notifications, voice messages and multimedia files , just like on your smartphone.
● Download and install WhatsApp Desktop from the Microsoft Store or the official website.
● Open the application and click “Get Started” .
● On the next screen, select “Connect with phone number” .
● Indicate the country and enter the phone number linked to your WhatsApp account.
● An alphanumeric code will appear on your PC .
● Your smartphone will receive a verification notification .
● Confirm the request and enter the alphanumeric code in the WhatsApp app on your mobile phone.
● After confirmation, WhatsApp Desktop will automatically load all conversations .
Differences between Web and Desktop Versions
In terms of functionality, the two modes are very similar and allow you to access chats and send messages in an almost identical way. However, some significant differences emerge that can influence the choice between browser and application. In particular, the Desktop client on Windows is more efficient, integrated, and practical, while the Web version is more immediate and requires no installation. WhatsApp Desktop requires an initial installation, but offers a more complete and continuous experience.
● Stability
– WhatsApp Desktop is generally more stable than the Web version.
– It reduces the risk of crashes or slowdowns during prolonged use.
● Notifications
– The Desktop app integrates directly with native Windows notifications.
– On the Web, however, notifications depend on the browser and can sometimes be less reliable.
● Resource consumption
– WhatsApp Desktop uses less memory and CPU than a browser tab always open.
– This translates to a smoother operating system.
● Background use
– The Desktop app can remain active in the background even if the browser is closed.
– WhatsApp Web requires the browser tab to always be open.
● Updates
– WhatsApp Desktop receives dedicated updates via the Microsoft Store or direct installation.
– WhatsApp Web updates automatically with the browser, without the need for additional downloads.
Limitations on Mac and macOS
Apple users should note that, at least for now, it’s not possible to access WhatsApp for Mac with just your phone number. WhatsApp requires the use of QR codes for security reasons related to macOS architecture and Apple’s security policies.
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The most practical alternative remains to use the web version with your phone number, which still guarantees access to conversations and allows you to send messages, media files, and documents as easily as the desktop version on Windows, albeit with some limitations in terms of stability and integration with the operating system.
Looking ahead, WhatsApp may introduce number login on macOS, aligning the experience across platforms. The company is constantly working to improve the service’s accessibility and security. In the meantime, Mac users will have to get used to a slightly more cumbersome method, but one that remains effective and secure for protecting their personal data.
Login Code Security
A key point to remember is that WhatsApp never sends these alphanumeric codes via SMS, email, or internal chat. The code appears only on the computer screen and must be entered only in the official app installed on the main smartphone. Any request to share the code from a third party is almost certainly a scam. For this reason, it is essential to remain vigilant and never share your sensitive data. By following a few simple rules, you can minimize the risk of scams, cloning, and unauthorized access to your account.
Main security rules on WhatsApp
● Never share login codes: alphanumeric codes or verification PINs must remain strictly private.
● Only use the official app : enter the codes exclusively in the original WhatsApp app downloaded from official stores.
● Be wary of suspicious requests : if someone asks for the code via chat, SMS, or email, ignore it: it is a scam attempt.
● Enable two-step verification : Set up an additional security PIN to protect your account from unauthorized access.
● Regularly check connected devices : From the “Connected Devices” section of the app, check for suspicious sessions and disconnect them immediately.
● Always update the app and operating system : Updates include security patches that protect against new vulnerabilities.
● Protect your primary smartphone : Use a PIN, fingerprint, Face ID, or a complex password to prevent unauthorized access.
Using WhatsApp without an active SIM card
WhatsApp can also be used on SIM-free devices, such as tablets, PCs, or secondary phones, but only as an app linked to the main account. You always need a smartphone with an active SIM card and an internet connection to create the account and authorize initial connections. In other words, you can’t register a new WhatsApp profile without a phone number, but you can connect multiple additional devices to continue using the app in a convenient and versatile way. This feature is particularly useful for those who work on multiple devices simultaneously or want to manage chats in different contexts.
Benefits of using WhatsApp without a SIM card
● Quickly switch between devices without losing conversations.
● Use the same account on multiple devices.
● Read and reply to messages from your tablet or PC.
● Continue chatting even if your primary smartphone is offline.
● Increased productivity for those who work on a computer.
Among the advantages of this method is greater flexibility, especially when you have problems with the camera or QR Code recognition. Furthermore, the system makes it more difficult for fraudsters to exploit stolen or remotely photographed QR codes, increasing the overall level of protection. Another positive aspect is the convenience for users who are less tech-savvy: entering an alphanumeric code is often simpler and more intuitive than scanning a QR code. This approach thus ensures more universal, secure, and practical access in various everyday situations.
Advantages of logging in with a phone number
● Increases the overall level of account security.
● Greater flexibility than QR Codes.
● Useful when the phone camera doesn’t work .
● Avoids problems with QR Code recognition.
● Reduces the risks associated with stolen or photographed QR codes.
Tips for Safe Use
To use WhatsApp safely, it’s a good idea to follow a few rules: never share codes received, enable two-factor authentication, keep your operating system and app up to date, and regularly check connected devices.
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These practices minimize the risk of unauthorized access and protect conversations and personal data. It’s also advisable to use complex passwords, periodically check active sessions, and disconnect any unrecognized devices, to ensure a constant and reliable level of security for all communications.
Key security points on WhatsApp
● Never share alphanumeric codes received to log in.
● Enable two-factor authentication for an extra level of protection.
● Keep your apps and operating system up to date to prevent vulnerabilities.
● Regularly check connected devices and disconnect suspicious ones.
● Use strong passwords and PINs to protect smartphone access.
● Monitor login notifications to detect unauthorized activity.
The introduction of phone number login represents a significant step forward for WhatsApp, which continues to seek a balance between convenience and data protection. While the primary mobile phone remains indispensable, the option to log in without a QR code offers a useful and secure alternative in many circumstances. Windows and web users can already take advantage of it, while Mac users will have to wait for a future update. In the meantime, the fundamental rule remains the same: always guard your credentials carefully and never share your access codes with third parties.