Microsoft Teams is a workplace hub for chat, video meetings, and file sharing, organized into teams and channels. Getting comfortable with sending messages, joining calls, and finding shared files covers most of what daily use requires.
What you'll need
- A Microsoft or work account
- The Teams app or a web browser
Step by step
- Sign in and installDownload Teams for desktop or mobile, or open it in a browser at teams.microsoft.com, then sign in with your work or Microsoft account.
- Explore teams and channelsClick Teams in the left sidebar. A team is a group of people, and channels are topic-based sections inside it where conversations and files live.
- Send a chat messageUse the Chat tab for one-to-one or small group messages, or post in a channel for the whole team. Type in the box at the bottom and press Enter to send.
- Start or join a meetingClick Calendar to see scheduled meetings and Join, or hit 'Meet now' to start a call instantly. You can share your screen and turn video or mic on and off with the toolbar.
- Share and find filesAttach a file with the paperclip in any chat or channel. Shared files also collect under the Files tab at the top of each channel.
- Manage notificationsOpen Settings from your profile picture to control which alerts you receive, and use @mentions to get someone's attention directly.
Handy tips
- Type @ followed by a name to notify a specific person so they see your message.
- Use the search bar at the top to jump to any message, file, or person quickly.
- Set your status to Do Not Disturb during focused work to pause notification pop-ups.
FAQ
What is the difference between a chat and a channel?
A chat is a private conversation between you and specific people. A channel is an open space inside a team where all members can see and join the discussion.
Can I use Teams without downloading the app?
Yes. You can use the full web version in a browser at teams.microsoft.com, though the desktop app offers a smoother experience.
How do I know if a message was read?
In one-to-one and group chats, a small eye icon shows who has seen your message.