# How to get started
### **This is a short guide how to install the Signal app on your mobile device and setup an account.**
### **Step 1: Download Signal**
- **On your phone (Android/iOS):**
- Go to the **Google Play Store** (Android) or **App Store** (iOS).
- Search for **"Signal Private Messenger"**.
- Tap **Install** and wait for the app to download.
- **On your computer (optional):**
- Visit [signal.org/download](https://signal.org/download) and download the desktop app for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
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### **Step 2: Open Signal and Register**
1. **Open the Signal app** on your phone.
2. Tap **"Continue"** on the welcome screen.
3. Enter your **phone number** (make sure it’s correct—Signal will send a verification code).
4. Tap **"Register"**.
*(Example: Signal registration screen—you’ll see a field for your phone number.)*
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### **Step 3: Verify Your Phone Number**
1. Signal will send you a **6-digit verification code** via SMS.
2. Enter the code in the app.
3. If you don’t receive the code, tap **"Resend code"** or **"Call me"** to get it via a phone call.
*(Note: Signal requires a real phone number for registration.)*
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### **Step 4: Set Up Your Profile**
1. After verification, Signal will ask for your **profile name** (this can be your real name or a nickname).
2. You can also add a **profile picture** (optional).
3. Tap **"Continue"**.
[](https://wiki.cept.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/r2bSSVpCXUdE1TZo-content-04-set-up-profile.png)
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### **Step 5: Set a PIN (Optional but Recommended)**
- Signal will prompt you to create a **4-digit PIN** to secure your account and backups.
- Choose a PIN you’ll remember and confirm it.
*(This PIN helps recover your account if you switch phones.)*
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### **Step 6: Allow Permissions**
- Signal will ask for permission to access your **contacts, microphone, and camera** (for calls and media sharing).
- Tap **"Allow"** for each permission to enable full functionality.
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### **Step 7: Start Chatting!**
- Signal will automatically sync your contacts (if allowed) and show you who else is using Signal.
- Tap the **pencil icon** (✏️) to start a new chat.
- Search for a contact and send your first message.
*(Example: Signal chat screen—tap the pencil icon to start a conversation.)*
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### **Optional: Link Signal to Your Computer**
1. Install the Signal App on your computer first
2. Open Signal on your **phone** and go to **Settings > Linked Devices**.
3. Open Signal on your **computer** and scan the QR code shown there with your phone.
*(This syncs your messages across devices.)*
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### **Troubleshooting Tips**
- **No verification code?** Check your SMS or request a call.
- **Contacts not showing?** Ensure Signal has permission to access your contacts.
- **Need help?** Visit [Signal Support](https://support.signal.org).
(Created with Mistral AI)