How to deactivate an Instagram account

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To deactivate your Instagram account, you can either use the mobile app or the web browser. This process temporarily hides your profile, photos, comments, and likes until you reactivate it by logging back in.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before deactivating your Instagram account, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An active Instagram account that you wish to deactivate.
  • •Access to the email or phone number linked to your Instagram account for verification.
  • •A stable internet connection.
  • •No pending actions such as account verification or security checks.

Method 1: Deactivating via the Instagram Mobile App

This method is ideal for users who prefer using their mobile devices to manage their Instagram accounts.
  • •Step 1: Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu) at the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings' from the menu.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Account'.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down and select 'Delete Account'.
  • •Step 7: Choose 'Temporarily deactivate my account'.
  • •Step 8: Select a reason for deactivation from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 9: Re-enter your password to confirm.
  • •Step 10: Tap 'Temporarily Deactivate Account'.
  • •Step 11: You should see a confirmation message indicating that your account has been deactivated.

For Windows 11

To deactivate your account using a web browser on Windows 11, follow these steps.
  • •Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Microsoft Edge).
  • •Navigate to Instagram.com and log in to your account.
  • •Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Click on 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Scroll down to 'Account Management' and click 'Temporarily deactivate my account'.
  • •Choose a reason for deactivation and re-enter your password.
  • •Click 'Temporarily Deactivate Account'.
  • •You should see a confirmation message.

For Windows 10

The steps for deactivation on Windows 10 are similar to Windows 11.
  • •Open your web browser (e.g., Google Chrome).
  • •Go to Instagram.com and log in.
  • •Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Select 'Settings'.
  • •Click on 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Scroll to 'Account Management' and select 'Temporarily deactivate my account'.
  • •Choose a reason and re-enter your password.
  • •Click 'Temporarily Deactivate Account'.
  • •Look for the confirmation message.

Method 2: Deactivating via Web Browser

This method is suitable for users who prefer to use a desktop or laptop to manage their Instagram accounts.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser and go to Instagram.com.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your account using your credentials.
  • •Step 3: Click on your profile icon in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down to 'Account Management' and click on 'Temporarily deactivate my account'.
  • •Step 7: Choose a reason for deactivation from the dropdown.
  • •Step 8: Re-enter your password to confirm.
  • •Step 9: Click 'Temporarily Deactivate Account'.
  • •Step 10: A confirmation message will appear indicating your account is deactivated.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to deactivate your account, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Your account cannot be deactivated at this time' - Solution: Ensure you are using the latest version of the app or browser. Clear cache and cookies if using a browser.
  • •Issue: 'Password incorrect' - Fix: Double-check your password and ensure Caps Lock is off. If forgotten, use the 'Forgot password?' link to reset it.
  • •Problem: 'Deactivation option not visible' - Workaround: Ensure you are logged into the correct account. If using a business account, switch to a personal account to access deactivation options.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips and shortcuts to enhance your Instagram experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Command + Shift + N (Mac) - Opens a new browser window for Instagram.
  • •Command line: Use browser developer tools (F12) to inspect elements if you encounter UI issues.
  • •Hidden feature: Use the 'Close Account' option in Settings for permanent deletion instead of temporary deactivation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

The best approach to deactivating your account is to ensure you have all your data backed up and understand the implications of deactivation.