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If you no longer want to be an active member of the largest social network, you can deactivate your Facebook account. This can be done with just a few clicks.
How to deactivate your Facebook account
If you are not sure whether you will want to use Facebook again in the near future, you can simply deactivate your profile instead of deleting it completely. Your data will remain stored, but other users will no longer be able to view it. What is the difference between deactivation and deletion?
- Deactivation: Your account is temporarily paused. It is not deleted, you can log back in at any time, and your data is still available. Your profile and posts are not visible to others, but messages you have sent via Messenger remain visible.
- Deletion: Your account will be permanently removed. Once deleted, your data cannot be recovered. Facebook offers a 30-day withdrawal period during which you can log in to Facebook to undo the deletion. After the period expires, the actual deletion process begins, which can take up to 90 days.
Step-by-step instructions for deactivating your Facebook account
Here are step-by-step instructions for deactivating your Facebook account:
- Log in to the Facebook website or app.
- Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select Settings & Privacy and then Settings.
- Go to the Account Overview menu item on the left (in the app, you will find it under the Meta logo).
- Click on Personal Information, then Account Ownership and Control, then Deactivate and Delete.
- Select Deactivate Account and click Continue.
- Enter your password and confirm the deactivation.
- Important: During deactivation, your profile will not be visible to others, your friends list will not be displayed, but messages you have sent will remain visible. You can continue to use Messenger and remain contactable there. You can reactivate your account at any time by logging in again.
Step-by-step instructions for permanently deleting your Facebook account
If you want to permanently delete your Facebook account, you can adjust your settings accordingly.
- Follow the instructions for deactivation up to step 5.
- Select Delete Account and click Continue.
- Decide whether you want to download a copy of your Facebook data and follow the instructions for backing up your data (recommended!).
- Enter your password and confirm the deletion.
- Do not log in again within 30 days to avoid canceling the deletion process. After this period, your account will be completely removed. It may take up to 90 days for all your data to be permanently deleted.
- Important: Since the deletion of your Facebook account is permanent, it is recommended that you make a copy of your personal data beforehand. Facebook offers you an easy way to download your photos, videos, posts, and messages. You can do this via the account overview under Download or transfer your information. Without a backup, your data will be irretrievably lost after deletion.
Common problems and solutions
Common problems and solutions can be found in this section.
- Links not working: Check that you are using the latest version of the Facebook app or your browser. Access to menu options may occasionally change due to updates.
- Restricted account access: If you are unable to log in, check whether you have accidentally initiated a full-page deletion. Use the 30-day cancellation period to reactivate your account.
- Problems with deactivation: Try logging out and logging back in using a different browser or the Facebook app. Clearing your cache and cookies may also help.
- Messenger no longer works: Messenger is linked to your Facebook account. If you completely delete your account, Messenger will lose your login details; if you deactivate your account, Messenger will remain functional.
