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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Instagram Not Working? Here's How to Fix It

Troubleshoot crashes, loading issues, login problems, and other common Instagram issues.

Last updated: January 2026 • 5 min read

🔧 Quick Fixes (Try These First)

  1. 1. Force close and reopen the app
  2. 2. Check your internet connection
  3. 3. Restart your phone
  4. 4. Update Instagram from the app store
  5. 5. Check if Instagram is down for everyone (DownDetector.com)

Step 1: Is Instagram Down for Everyone?

Before troubleshooting your device, check if Instagram is having a global outage:

🌐

DownDetector.com

Real-time outage reports from users worldwide

🐦

Twitter/X Search

Search "Instagram down" to see recent complaints

💻

Try Instagram.com

If the website works but app doesn't, it's your device

If Instagram is down: Unfortunately, you'll need to wait for Meta to fix it. Most outages are resolved within 1-3 hours.

Common Problems & Solutions

App Keeps Crashing

Fix 1: Update Instagram to the latest version

Fix 2: Clear app cache (Settings → Apps → Instagram → Clear Cache)

Fix 3: Uninstall and reinstall the app

Fix 4: Free up storage space on your device

Fix 5: Update your phone's operating system

Feed Not Loading / Stuck on Loading

Fix 1: Switch between WiFi and mobile data

Fix 2: Turn airplane mode on for 30 seconds, then off

Fix 3: Clear Instagram cache

Fix 4: Disable VPN if you're using one

Fix 5: Log out and log back in

Can't Log In

Fix 1: Double-check username/email and password

Fix 2: Use "Forgot password" to reset

Fix 3: Try logging in via Facebook if linked

Fix 4: Check email for any security notices from Instagram

Fix 5: Try logging in from instagram.com

Stories Not Working

Fix 1: Force close and reopen the app

Fix 2: Check internet connection speed

Fix 3: Update the app

Fix 4: Clear cache and try again

Fix 5: Check if Stories work on web version

Can't Post / Upload Stuck

Fix 1: Check internet speed (uploads need stable connection)

Fix 2: Reduce video quality/length

Fix 3: Make sure you have enough storage

Fix 4: Try posting without hashtags first

Fix 5: Try posting from a different network

How to Clear Instagram Cache

🤖 Android

  1. 1. Go to SettingsApps
  2. 2. Find and tap Instagram
  3. 3. Tap Storage
  4. 4. Tap Clear Cache

🍎 iPhone

  1. 1. Go to SettingsGeneral
  2. 2. Tap iPhone Storage
  3. 3. Find Instagram
  4. 4. Tap Offload App, then reinstall

When to Contact Instagram Support

If none of the above fixes work, you may need to contact Instagram directly:

  • Your account was disabled or hacked
  • You've tried everything and the issue persists for 24+ hours
  • You're experiencing a bug that's not related to outages

How to report: Profile → Menu → Settings → Help → Report a Problem

Prevent Future Problems

Keep Instagram Updated

Enable auto-updates to always have the latest bug fixes.

Clear Cache Regularly

Clear cache monthly to prevent buildup that causes issues.

Maintain Storage Space

Keep at least 1GB free for apps to function properly.

Secure Your Account

Enable two-factor authentication to prevent lockouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Track Your Followers While You Fix Issues

Instagram issues can cause missed engagement. UnfollowCheck helps you track followers, catch unfollows, and stay on top of your Instagram presence – even when the app acts up.

Try UnfollowCheck Free

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