How to download your Instagram data

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for downloading Instagram data.

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

Quick Answer

To download your Instagram data, you can request a copy of your data through the Instagram app or website. This process allows you to obtain a complete archive of your photos, comments, profile information, and more.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the process to download your Instagram data, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A valid Instagram account with access to the email or phone number associated with it.
  • •A stable internet connection.
  • •The latest version of the Instagram app (if using mobile) or a supported web browser (if using desktop).
  • •Ensure you have enough storage space on your device to accommodate the downloaded data.

Method 1: Downloading Data via Instagram App

This method is suitable for users who prefer using their mobile devices to access Instagram.
  • •Step 1: Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings' from the menu.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Security'.
  • •Step 6: Select 'Download Data'.
  • •Step 7: Enter the email address where you want to receive the download link and tap 'Request Download'.
  • •Step 8: Check your email for a message from Instagram with a link to download your data.
  • •Step 9: Click the link in the email and follow the instructions to download your data.
  • •Step 10: Verify that the data has been downloaded successfully by checking the contents.

For Windows 11

To download Instagram data using the web browser on Windows 11, follow these steps:
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser (e.g., Microsoft Edge) and go to www.instagram.com.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your account.
  • •Step 3: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Settings'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down to 'Data Download' and click 'Request Download'.
  • •Step 7: Enter your email address and select the format (HTML or JSON).
  • •Step 8: Click 'Next' and enter your password to confirm.
  • •Step 9: Check your email for the download link and follow the instructions.

For Windows 10

The steps to download data on Windows 10 are similar to those on Windows 11, with minor interface differences:
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome) and navigate to www.instagram.com.
  • •Step 2: Log into your account.
  • •Step 3: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Settings'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Privacy and Security'.
  • •Step 6: Find 'Data Download' and click 'Request Download'.
  • •Step 7: Enter your email and select the format, then click 'Next'.
  • •Step 8: Enter your password and click 'Request Download'.
  • •Step 9: Check your email for the download link.

Method 2: Downloading Data via Instagram Website

This method is ideal for users who prefer to use a desktop or laptop computer.
  • •Step 1: Open your preferred web browser and go to www.instagram.com.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your Instagram account.
  • •Step 3: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Privacy and Security' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 6: Scroll down to the 'Data Download' section.
  • •Step 7: Click 'Request Download'.
  • •Step 8: Enter the email address where you want to receive the download link and select the format (HTML or JSON).
  • •Step 9: Click 'Next' and enter your password to confirm the request.
  • •Step 10: Check your email for the download link and follow the instructions to download your data.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to download your Instagram data, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Email not recognized' - Solution: Ensure you are using the email associated with your Instagram account.
  • •Issue: 'Request failed' - Fix: Try logging out and back into your account, or wait and try again later.
  • •Problem: 'Download link not received' - Workaround: Check your spam/junk folder or ensure your email address is correct.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Instagram experience with these advanced tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows) or Command + Option + I (Mac) - Opens Developer Tools for inspecting elements.
  • •Command line: N/A - Instagram does not support command line for data download.
  • •Hidden feature: You can view your account activity by going to 'Settings' > 'Security' > 'Access Data'.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always keep your Instagram app updated and regularly back up your data.