How to Fix Facebook Messenger Not Working

Step by step

1. Check your internet connection

   Open a web browser and visit any website to confirm your internet works. Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to test both connections. Messenger requires a stable internet connection to send and receive messages.

   Note: Use the built-in network diagnostics on your device: Settings > Network & Internet > Network troubleshooter on Windows, or Network Utility on Mac.

2. Force close and restart the Messenger app

   On iOS, swipe up from the bottom and swipe up on Messenger to close it. On Android, tap the recent apps button and swipe Messenger away. Reopen the app from your home screen or app drawer.

   Note: On Android, you can also force stop apps through Settings > Apps > Messenger > Force Stop.

3. Update Facebook Messenger to the latest version

   Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for Messenger. Tap Update if available. Outdated versions often have compatibility issues that prevent proper functionality.

   Note: Enable automatic updates to prevent future compatibility problems: App Store > Account > App Updates > Automatic Updates.

4. Clear Messenger app cache and data

   On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Messenger > Storage > Clear Cache, then Clear Data. On iOS, delete and reinstall the app since iOS doesn't allow manual cache clearing. This removes corrupted temporary files.

   Note: Clearing data logs you out and removes downloaded files, but your messages remain on Facebook's servers.

5. Check Facebook server status

   Visit downdetector.com or Facebook's official Twitter account to see if Messenger is experiencing widespread outages. Server issues affect all users and require waiting for Facebook to resolve them.

6. Log out and back into your Facebook account

   In Messenger, tap your profile picture, scroll to Legal & Policies, tap Switch Account, then Add Account. Enter your Facebook credentials to log back in. This refreshes your authentication token.

   Note: If using Messenger on desktop, clear your browser cookies for facebook.com and messenger.com before logging back in.

7. Restart your device

   Power off your phone, tablet, or computer completely, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. This clears system-level issues that might interfere with Messenger's network connections or background processes.

   Note: On iPhones with Face ID, press and hold the side button and volume up button, then slide to power off. On Android, press and hold the power button.