How to Search for Telegram Groups and Channels

Telegram offers a diverse range of communities and channels catering to various interests. From educational groups sharing knowledge to entertainment channels keeping you entertained, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you on how to search for Telegram groups and channels and join them.

Well, before we begin with the steps and methods, it is essential to know that two types of groups or channels exist on Telegram: public and private. A public channel or group can be searched without invitation. However, a private group or channel cannot be searched and can only be joined by invitation or by addition from the admin.

Want to know more about groups and channels? read:

• Telegram channel vs group: which one should you use
• WhatsApp channels vs Telegram channels
• Telegram channel vs WhatsApp broadcast
• What are WhatsApp channels and how to access and join them

How to Find and Join Public Telegram Groups and Channels

Searching and joining public groups or channels on Telegram is relatively straightforward, provided you know the exact name or username of the group or channel. Alternatively, if you are in contact with the admin or creator of the group or the channel, you can request that they send you an invitation or add you to the group or the channel.

On the Telegram Desktop App or Web

Before proceeding with the steps below, ensure your Telegram desktop app is updated and running properly.

Step 1: Launch the Telegram desktop app on your Windows or Mac computer. Go to the search box in the left pane above the chats.

Step 2: Now, type the group’s or channel’s name or username, and from the search results, click on the one you want to join.

Step 3: Finally, click the Join or Join Channel button to enable yourself to message or share content in the group.

That’s it. You searched and joined the group or channel you wanted to join. If you don’t have access to a desktop and want to search for groups or channels in the Telegram mobile app, continue reading.

Also Read: How to hide your phone number on Telegram

On Telegram Mobile App (Android or iOS)

Step 1: Open the Telegram app on your Android or iOS device. Once launched, tap the magnifying glass icon in the top-right corner.

Step 2: Now, type the public group or channel name, and from the search results, tap on the one you wish to join.

Note: Ensure the name or username you are typing is correct.

Step 3: Finally, click the Join Group or Join Channel button to enable yourself to message or share content in the group.

There you go. You have joined a public Telegram group or channel without a Telegram group or channel link. This was the case when the group or channel was open to everyone. But what if the group or the channel is private? keep reading.

How to Join Private Telegram Groups

As discussed above, private groups or private channels cannot be found when searched on Telegram. To join a private group or channel, you must either be invited or have an invite link to join one. If you already have the invitation link, let’s begin with the steps for the desktop.

On the Telegram Desktop App or Web

Step 1: Launch the Telegram desktop app on your Windows or Mac computer. Navigate to the chat consisting of the invitation link.

Step 2: Click the invitation link.

The link will take you to your private group or channel. If you revert to the same chat, the invitation link has likely expired, or the private group or channel no longer exists.

Step 3: Depending on the privacy settings, you can navigate through the older chats before joining. Once you are sure, click the Join Group or Join Channel button.

If you don’t have access to your desktop and want to do the same using a mobile device, continue reading.

Also Read: What are Telegram read receipts and can you turn them off

On Telegram Mobile App (Android or iOS)

Step 1: Open the Telegram app on your Android or iOS device. Once launched, navigate to the chat containing the invitation link.

Step 2: Tap the invitation link. Finally, click the Join Group or Join button to enable yourself to message or share content in the group.

That’s about it. Once you join the group or channel, depending on the privacy settings in place, you can look back at the conversation, including shared images, videos, or gifs that members had shared before you joined the group.

If you have any queries, check out the FAQ section below. 

FAQs on Searching Telegram Groups and Channels

Quickly Join Groups and Channels in Telegram

Now that you know how to search for Telegram groups and channels, you can seek knowledge, entertain, or connect with like-minded individuals. You may also want to read how to manage downloads in Telegram.