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Summary
Most channels in Microsoft Teams are standard channels, meaning all members of a Team can see and participate in conversations, share files, and collaborate.
A private channel creates a more focused space within a Team. Only the people you specifically add to the private channel can see it, access its content, and participate in discussions.
- Private channels are indicated by a lock icon next to the channel name.
- A private channel is always linked to its parent Team and cannot be moved elsewhere.
- You must choose whether a channel is standard or private when you create it; you cannot convert a channel later.
- Anyone already in the parent Team (including guests) can be added to the private channel.
- The person who creates a private channel becomes the owner of the channel and its corresponding new SharePoint site and also manages membership. Only private channel owners can add or remove people.
Content
Private channels in Microsoft Teams create focused spaces for collaboration within teams. Most channels are standard, meaning all members of a team can see them and are able to participate in conversations, share files, and more.
Considerations Before Creating a Private Channel
- Use private channels sparingly; consider if a private 1:1 or Group Chat might work better.
- Files shared in a private channel are stored in a separate SharePoint site connected to the parent Team.
- If a large number of people need their own space, consider creating a new Team instead of multiple private channels.
How-To
Task: To create a private channel.
Instructions
Step 1 - In Teams, click on the Team name where you’d like to add a private channel.
Step 2 - Click on the three dots (…) next to the Team name to open the menu.
Step 3 - Select +Add Channel.
Step 4 - In the pop-up form, enter the Channel Name and Description.
Step 5 - Click in the Choose a channel type drop-down and select Private – Specific people on the team have access.
Step 6 - Click Create.
Step 7 - Enter the names of the people you would like to grant access to. Once all members have been entered, click Add.
Outcome
The new private channel appears in your Team, with a lock icon indicating restricted membership. Only the selected members will see the channel in their list.
Further Readings
Private channels in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support
MS Teams: USNH Teams Usage Guidelines and Governance
MS Teams: Understanding the Difference Between Teams Chat and Teams Conversations
Need additional help?
For assistance concerning site creation, content sharing, file synchronization, or other common SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, or Office app activities, we recommend our Microsoft 365 Learning sites:
Learn more about the great tools our Microsoft 365 Learning sites offer!
Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person