telegram.exe

What is telegram.exe?

telegram.exe is the executable file for Telegram Desktop, a popular cloud-based instant messaging application developed by Telegram FZ-LLC. It provides secure messaging with end-to-end encryption, file sharing, voice and video calls, and group chat functionality.

Telegram is known for its focus on speed, security, and privacy. The desktop application syncs seamlessly with the mobile app, allowing users to access their conversations across multiple devices. Unlike web-based messaging apps, Telegram Desktop runs as a native Windows application, providing better performance and system integration.

Is telegram.exe Safe?

Yes, telegram.exe is safe when it's the legitimate application signed by Telegram FZ-LLC and installed from the official website (telegram.org) or Microsoft Store.

Is telegram.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real telegram.exe is NOT a virus. It's a legitimate messaging application used by over 700 million people worldwide. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names.

How to Tell if telegram.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\Telegram Desktop\ or C:\Program Files\Telegram Desktop\. Any telegram.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Should show "Telegram FZ-LLC" when you right-click → Properties → Digital Signatures.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-10% CPU and 100-400 MB RAM. Constant high usage or unusual network activity is suspicious.
4. Behavior: Should only run when you open the application. Multiple instances are normal (one per window/chat).

Why Is telegram.exe Running on My PC?

telegram.exe runs because you have Telegram Desktop installed and either opened it manually or it's set to start automatically with Windows.

Reasons it's running:

• You opened the application: Telegram Desktop runs whenever you launch it from your Start menu, desktop shortcut, or taskbar.
• Startup setting enabled: By default, Telegram can be configured to start automatically when Windows boots, allowing you to receive messages immediately.
• Background notifications: If configured, Telegram may run minimized in the system tray to deliver real-time notifications.
• Multiple windows/chats: Each separate Telegram window or certain media viewer windows may spawn an additional telegram.exe process.
• Update process: Occasionally runs briefly to check for and install updates.

Can I Disable or Remove telegram.exe?

Yes, you can disable telegram.exe. Since it's a third-party application, not a Windows system component, you can close it, prevent it from starting, or uninstall it completely without affecting Windows functionality.

How to Disable telegram.exe

• ✔ Close the app: Right-click the Telegram icon in system tray → Quit
• ✔ Disable startup: Open Telegram → Settings → Advanced → Launch Telegram (uncheck)
• ✔ Task Manager: Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Startup tab → Disable Telegram Desktop
• ✔ Uninstall: Settings → Apps → Telegram Desktop → Uninstall

What Happens if You Disable It

• ❌ You won't receive desktop notifications for Telegram messages
• ❌ You'll need to open the app manually to check messages
• ❌ Desktop-specific features like quick replies and file drag-and-drop won't work
• ✔ Your messages remain accessible on mobile and web
• ✔ All data stays synced in the cloud
• ✔ You'll free up 100-400 MB of RAM

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If telegram.exe is consuming excessive resources, here are the most common causes and solutions:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Large media files downloading: Telegram auto-downloads media in active chats. → Go to Settings → Advanced → Automatic media download and disable or limit.
• Too many active chats with auto-play: GIFs and videos auto-playing in multiple chats. → Disable auto-play in Settings → Chat Settings.
• Outdated version: Older versions may have performance bugs. → Update to the latest version via Settings → Check for updates.
• Large chat history cache: Years of messages and media cached locally. → Settings → Advanced → Manage local storage → Clear cache.
• Multiple windows open: Each window consumes resources. → Close unnecessary chat windows.
• Corrupted installation: App files may be damaged. → Reinstall Telegram Desktop.

Normal vs. Abnormal Resource Usage

Related Processes