← Back to all guidesTelegram makes it possible to export a surprisingly large amount of your data, but the best results come from using Telegram Desktop rather than the mobile app. This guide explains how to request the export, what formats to choose, and how to store the archive once it is downloaded.
What Telegram knows about you
- Private chats and group chats
- Media files you sent or received
- Contacts and usernames
- Stickers and bots you use
- Session data and account metadata
Why use Telegram Desktop for the export
Telegram Desktop gives you the export controls that mobile does not. You can choose which chats to include, which media to include, and whether to export as HTML or JSON.
How to request the export
- Open Telegram Desktop and sign in.
- Go to Settings.
- Open Advanced.
- Choose Export Telegram Data.
- Select the categories and date range you want.
- Choose HTML for readability or JSON for archiving.
- Start the export and wait for it to finish.
What is inside the archive
- Chats/ — your message history
- Photos/ and Videos/ — media exports
- Contacts.json — your contacts list
- Sessions.json — login sessions
- Messages HTML files — readable chat views
What to do after downloading
- Keep the export in a clearly labeled folder
- Use encrypted storage if the chats are sensitive
- Do not assume deleted messages are recoverable
Quick version
If you want the short checklist instead of the full guide, use the service page.
FAQ
Can I do this on mobile?
The full export works best on Telegram Desktop.
Should I choose HTML or JSON?
HTML is easier to read. JSON is better if you want to process the data later.
Does Telegram export everything?
It exports a lot, but not necessarily everything in the way a backup of the app would.