MS Teams - Create a Private Channel

Issue/Question

• How do I create a private channel in Microsoft Teams?

Environment

• Oregon State University
• MS Teams

Explanation

Microsoft added support for private channels in Teams in November 2019. A private channel allows you to restrict members within a channel. For more information, see: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/MicrosoftTeams/private-channels

Note: To create a private channel in Microsoft Teams, you need the following:

• A team setup in Teams
• Ownership of the team -or- permissions set by the owner to allow members to create private channels
• It is recommended to have two owners for a private channel

Alternatively, you can create a private group chat.

Resolution

Create a Private Channel in a Team

1. In the Teams app, select the Teams icon on the left
   
2. Select the ellipsis (three dots) next to your team name and select "Add Channel"
   
3. Set a name for the channel
4. Enter an optional description
5. Set Privacy to "Private" and click "Next"
   
6. Enter names to add people to the channel, and click "Add"; Select "Done" when complete.
   • Note: It is recommended to have two owners for a private channel
7. You may also select "Skip" to skip adding members; they can be added later.

Private channels will display in the channel list with a closed lock icon next to the name.

Assistance

For assistance, contact the Service Desk.