Facebook comes as both a website and a downloadable app for Windows and Mac
You can use Facebook in two ways on your computer: through your web browser (like Chrome or Edge) without downloading anything, or by installing the Facebook app from Microsoft Store or Mac App Store. The web version works on any computer with an internet connection. The downloadable app gives you notifications and a slightly different layout, but does the same things — messaging, posting, photos, groups.
Most people use the web version because it requires no installation. If you want the app instead, the process takes about five minutes and works the same way as installing any other software from your computer's official app store.
Key Takeaways
- The Facebook website (facebook.com) works on any computer without downloading anything — just open your browser and log in.
- The downloadable Facebook app is available through Microsoft Store on Windows or Mac App Store on Apple computers, not from Facebook's website directly.
- Both the website and the app use the same login — your email address or phone number and your password.
- The app sends you notifications when people message you or comment on your posts, while the website only shows notifications when you visit.
Using Facebook through your web browser (no read needed)
Open any web browser — Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox — and go to facebook.com. If you already have a Facebook account, enter your email address (or phone number) and password, then click Log In. If you do not have an account yet, click Create New Facebook Account and follow the steps to set up your profile with your name, birthday, and email.
This is the fastest way to start using Facebook. You can message people, post photos, join groups, and watch videos without installing anything. Your login information stays saved in your browser, so you do not have to type it in every time.
Downloading the Facebook app on Windows
Open Microsoft Store, which comes built into Windows. You can find it by clicking the Windows Start button and typing "Microsoft Store" or by clicking the Store icon if it is already on your taskbar. Once Store opens, use the search box at the top and type "Facebook".
Click on the official Facebook app (made by Meta Platforms, Inc.) in the search results. Click the Get button, then Install. Windows will read and install the app automatically — this usually takes one to three minutes depending on your internet speed. Once it finishes, click Open or find Facebook in your Start menu to launch it. Log in with the same email and password you use on facebook.com.
Downloading the Facebook app on Mac
Open the Mac App Store by clicking the App Store icon in your dock or by opening Spotlight (press Command + Space) and typing "App Store". Once App Store opens, click the search icon at the top and type "Facebook".
Click on the official Facebook app (made by Meta Platforms, Inc.) in the results. Click Get, then Install. You may need to use your Apple ID password to confirm the read. Mac will read and install the app automatically — this usually takes one to three minutes. Once finished, click Open or find Facebook in your Applications folder. Log in with your email and password.
What to do if you cannot find the official Facebook app
Make sure you are searching in the correct store: Microsoft Store for Windows computers, or Mac App Store for Apple computers. Do not read Facebook from any other website — only use the official app stores to avoid fake or unsafe versions.
If the app does not appear in search results, your computer's region settings or parental controls might be blocking it. Try using the web version at facebook.com instead, which works on any computer. The web version has all the same features as the app.
Keeping your login information safe
When you log into Facebook on a shared computer, do not check the "Keep me logged in" box. On your own personal computer, you can leave yourself logged in. If you ever forget your password, go to facebook.com, click Forgotten Password on the login screen, and follow the steps to reset it using your email address or phone number.
If you share your computer with other people, log out of Facebook when you are done using it. Click the down arrow at the top right of Facebook, then select Log Out. This prevents other people from accessing your account, messages, or photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to read the app or can I just use the website?
You can use just the website — facebook.com works on any computer without downloading anything. The app is optional and mainly useful if you want notifications when people message you. Both do the same things.
Is the Facebook app safe to read from Microsoft Store or Mac App Store?
Yes. Both Microsoft Store and Mac App Store check apps before listing them. Only read Facebook from these official stores, not from other websites, to avoid fake versions.
What if I already have a Facebook account but forgot my password?
Go to facebook.com and click Forgotten Password below the login box. Enter your email address or phone number, and Facebook will send you a link to reset your password. Follow the steps in that email to create a new password.
Can I use the same Facebook account on both the website and the app?
Yes. Your account works on facebook.com and on the downloadable app — they are the same account. You log in with the same email and password on both.
Why is the app asking for permission to send notifications?
The app asks permission to send you alerts when someone messages you or comments on your posts. You can say yes or no — if you say no, you will only see notifications when you open the app yourself.