If you have come this far because WhatsApp Desktop app notifications on Windows don't workDon't worry, you're not alone. This problem is more common than it seems and can be caused by multiple reasons, from incorrect configuration to operating system or app failures. Avoid losing important messages It is essential, especially if you use WhatsApp for work or to stay informed without always depending on your phone.
In this article I bring you a complete and very detailed guide To resolve this issue, I've compiled information from the best portals and technology experts, covering every possible cause and solution, both in the app and in Windows, the browser, and other aspects. We are going to explain everything step by step, with Tricks and advice so you don't miss any notifications and can receive them as usual again.
Why aren't you receiving WhatsApp Desktop notifications on Windows?
detect the problem This is the first step. The causes can vary and in some cases overlap. The most common causes include:
- Incorrect configuration from the WhatsApp app on Windows.
- Permissions disabled in Windows notifications.
- Concentration assistant or 'Do Not Disturb' modes activated, which block notifications.
- Internet connection errors on the computer or on the linked mobile phone.
- Problems with the version of the system or the application itself.
- conflicts with other open sessions on WhatsApp Web or other devices.
- Energy saving systems, data restrictions, or advanced settings that block notifications.
First of allWe'll go through each possible setting and solution step by step, so you can find the key to your specific situation.

1. Check notification settings on WhatsApp Desktop
Many times, the problem is in the WhatsApp's own app for WindowsThe notifications option may not be enabled or may have been accidentally changed after an update. To make sure:
- Open WhatsApp Desktop on your PC.
- Click the gear icon (settings) located in the lower left corner.
- Access the section 'Notifications'.
- Confirm that you have these options enabled:
- Display banner notifications: Always.
- Notification badge on the taskbar: Always.
- Messages, reactions y calls: all set to 'On'.
If everything is correct and you still don't receive notifications, the next step is to check the settings in Windows.
2. Check and activate WhatsApp notifications on Windows
Windows can block or limit notifications from certain apps. To check:
- Tap the notifications icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar.
- Choose 'Manage notifications' or enter from Settings > System > Notifications.
- Check that the general option 'Notifications' is activated.
- Check into 'Get notifications from these senders' that WhatsApp appears as 'On'.
- Make sure the options 'Show on lock screen' y 'Allow sounds' are enabled.
If WhatsApp doesn't appear in that list, try restarting the app or system, as it could be a temporary recognition issue.
3. Focus Assist and Do Not Disturb Modes
El Concentration assistant, or 'Do Not Disturb' modes in Windows, can affect any notification, even if everything is set up correctly. To check:
- Click the notifications icon on the taskbar.
- Identify the moon button, which represents the Focus Assist.
- If it is in mode 'Priority only' o 'Alarms only', press until it says 'Disabled'.
- During nighttime or routine hours, Windows may automatically activate this mode. Configure it according to your preferences in Settings > System > Focus Assist to prevent it from influencing WhatsApp notifications.
A carelessness in this aspect can block all alerts even if the app is properly configured.
4. Permissions and advanced settings in Windows
When installing WhatsApp Desktop, the system may require specific permissions. If these aren't granted, you won't receive notifications. To check:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps. Locate WhatsApp.
- Accede to 'Advanced Options' If available, check background execution permissions and notifications.
- Enable any disabled options and restart the app if necessary.
This control prevents applications from freely accessing system resources. It's recommended to review it when other solutions fail.
5. Update WhatsApp and the operating system
An outdated version of WhatsApp Desktop can cause notification issues. Check that:
- The app is updated since the Microsoft Store or the official website.
- Your Windows system has the latest installed updates. To do this, go to Settings > Update & Security.
Updating usually fixes notification errors and other system glitches.
6. Connection verification: both the mobile and the PC must be online.
WhatsApp Desktop and Web depend on you your phone is on and has Internet accessIf your phone is off or without coverage, you won't receive notifications. Make sure to:
- That the mobile has WiFi or mobile data active.
- That WhatsApp works correctly on the mobile and has no network problems.
- Reactivate airplane mode and reconnect to the network if you suspect connection failures.
- Make sure your PC is connected to the Internet, as without it, you won't receive notifications. Try opening any web page in your browser.
7. Conflicts with other sessions
If you have multiple WhatsApp sessions open on different devices, notifications will only reach oneWhatsApp prioritizes the device you're currently active on:
- Check on mobile at Linked devices o Web WhatsApp.
- End sessions on devices you're not using to avoid conflicts.
- Then, log in to the PC where you want to receive notifications.
This step usually resolves issues with 'ghost' notifications.
8. Is the power saving system blocking notifications?
The power saving modes en portable can suspend background processes, preventing WhatsApp from receiving notifications if you're not using your device. To prevent this:
- Accede to Settings > System > Power & sleep.
- Set it to not turn off the screen or enter sleep mode too quickly.
- From Additional power settings, make sure it is not in restrictive mode.
Leaving your PC plugged in and the app open when you're not using it can improve your ability to receive notifications.
9. Browser Update and Permissions (if you use WhatsApp Web)
For those using WhatsApp Web, please check that:
- The browser must be compatible and up to date: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, or Safari.
- Allows notifications in web.whatsapp.com. Click the lock in the address bar and set the permission to 'Allow'.
- If the QR code doesn't load, refresh the page and check your internet connection.
- Check that 'Do Not Disturb' mode in your browser is not activated, which would prevent you from seeing ads.
Remember that Web may request separate permissions to display notifications.
10. Solution to recurring errors and failed updates
If you still haven't received notifications, The problem could be due to configuration errors or in the app itself.. Try:
- Close and reopen WhatsApp Desktop.
- Uninstall and reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store.
- Check if other apps are also experiencing notification issues; if so, the problem could be with Windows.
- Check notifications on iPhone if you use that platform and make sure the settings are correct.
- Restart your computer and mobile phone to clear temporary freezes.
11. Chats, muted groups, and archived conversations
From the app itself, you can mute individual or group chatsIf you're not receiving notifications for certain conversations, check that you don't have the 'Mute notifications' option enabled in that chat:
- Right-click on the chat or go to their profile to check the option.
- In archived chats, adjust whether you want new notifications to appear or hide.
- Muting does not prevent visual notifications from arriving if they are enabled.
12. Is WhatsApp down?
Before looking for solutions, check if WhatsApp presents falls or global problemsYou can consult platforms like Downdetector or social networks like X (formerly Twitter) to detect reports in real time.
These failures are usually temporary and short-lived, so it is advisable to check before changing settings.
13. Review of permissions and push notifications
push notifications depend on system, browser, or app permissions being correctly granted. Make sure to:
- On mobile, WhatsApp is allowed to simulate notifications and run in the background.
- On WhatsApp Desktop or Web, you must grant notification permissions when prompted.
- That the option 'Show pop-up notifications' is active.
14. Other tricks and common checks
To quickly resolve specific issues, try:
- Reboot the router or change the WiFi network to rule out connection failures.
- Activate and deactivate airplane mode on your mobile.
- Check volume, sound and vibration on your PC and mobile.
- Free storage on both devices if space is limited.
- Reset preferences apps or profiles in extreme cases, although it may require logging into multiple applications.
15. Extra settings for advanced users
For those who want complete control, these advanced settings can help:
- Configure the Third-party notifications in Windows to prioritize WhatsApp.
- Use the logon and power options to prevent your computer from going to sleep during active sessions.
- If you're using multiple monitors or virtual desktops, check that notifications aren't restricted to any secondary displays.
These details can make the difference when faced with problems that cannot be resolved with basic options.
16. When to contact professional support or help
If after all this the problem persists, contact the WhatsApp technical support or Microsoft. To do this, prepare:
- Model and version of your PC and operating system.
- WhatsApp Desktop version installed.
- A detailed description of the steps you've already tried.
Official support often takes a while, but it may be the only way to resolve specific issues or rare bugs.
By carefully reviewing both the WhatsApp settings and the system and browser options, you have almost all solutions to recover notifications on WhatsApp Desktop on Windows. Most of the time, the problem lies in permissions, open sessions, or active focus modes. Taking a few minutes to double-check everything ensures you don't miss important messages or miss notifications due to a forgotten setting.
Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.
