[14 Fixes] Why Does Instagram Say ‘Something Went Wrong Try Again Later’ when Posting?

Is your Instagram account giving you a hard time with the dreaded ‘Something Went Wrong’ error? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! We’ve all been there, eagerly trying to post that perfect picture or share a hilarious meme, only to be met with frustration. But fear not, because in this post, we’ve got 14 fixes that will help you overcome this annoying hurdle and get you back to posting in no time. From checking your network connection to contacting the Instagram Help Center, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and bid farewell to the ‘Something Went Wrong’ error once and for all!

Understanding the ‘Something Went Wrong’ Error on Instagram

Instagram, with its vibrant tapestry of images and stories, has become a digital canvas for billions. However, even the most seasoned Instagram aficionados can be halted in their scrolling tracks by the cryptic message: “Something went wrong. Please try again later.” This error message, while frustratingly vague, is a cry from the app indicating a myriad of potential issues that can range from fleeting to more persistent concerns.

When this error pops up during a posting attempt, it’s akin to hitting a virtual wall. One’s first instinct might be to repeatedly tap the post button in hopes of a different outcome, but this is often in vain. Instead, a systematic approach to troubleshooting is required. Factors such as network issues or a hiccup with the Instagram servers themselves could be the culprits. For the social media savvy, this can be a momentary hiccup, easily resolved with a few taps in the settings or a quick app update.

On occasion, the problem may lie with the app’s version on your device. An outdated Instagram app can be the silent saboteur of your posting process. Thus, ensuring that your app is up-to-date is a key step in the troubleshooting dance. Moreover, the intricate workings of Instagram’s platform may sometimes experience unexplained technical issues that require a more forceful reset, such as rebooting your device.

For those who find themselves frequently at the mercy of this error, consider the possibility that your account may be suspended or flagged. This can result from a breach of Instagram’s community guidelines, whether intentional or not. In such cases, the pathway to resolution may require a more personal touch, such as contacting the Instagram Help Center for assistance.

While this error message can be a source of consternation, it’s important to remember that it’s a common hurdle for many users. The key is to approach the problem with patience and a measured response. By following the upcoming steps, you’ll be equipped to leap over this digital obstacle and return to sharing your life’s moments with the world.

1. Check Your Network Connection

When Instagram halts your scroll with the dreaded “Something went wrong. Please try again later” message, it’s often due to a hiccup in your internet connection. In our hyper-connected world, a smooth network is the backbone of our social media experiences. Let’s ensure your connection isn’t the culprit behind this Instagram conundrum.

First, take a moment to examine the signal strength indicator on your device. For cellular data users, navigate to Settings > Networks & Connections > Cellular data. Here, you can toggle your data off and on again—a classic quick fix that often refreshes your connection. Look out for symbols like LTE, 4G, or 3G, which indicate a solid connection. Don’t see them? You might be in a network’s Bermuda Triangle, so consider relocating to another spot where the signal is known to be strong.

If you’re a Wi-Fi warrior, similar steps apply. Access your device’s Wi-Fi settings, typically found under Settings > Wireless and Connection. A quick toggle off and on of your Wi-Fi can work wonders. Still staring at a weak or non-existent signal? Try the age-old remedy of rebooting your router. It’s surprising how often this simple act can exorcise network gremlins.

Remember, if you’re in a public place or using a shared network, the issue could be due to network congestion. Too many devices competing for bandwidth can cause performance to plummet. If that’s the case, either patiently wait it out or seek out a less crowded connection.

By ensuring your network connection is robust and reliable, you’ve taken the first vital step in troubleshooting the Instagram error. With your internet signal now as steady as a rock, you can confidently move on to other potential fixes if the problem persists.

2. Confirm Network Connections if Using Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi, while convenient, can sometimes be the culprit behind connectivity issues on Instagram. It is essential to ensure that your Wi-Fi connection is stable and strong to prevent the frustrating ‘Something Went Wrong’ error. To check the robustness of your connection, navigate to Settings > Wireless and Network > Wi-Fi on your device. Here, you will be able to see the strength of the signal indicated by the Wi-Fi bars. A full signal bar at the top of your phone’s screen signifies a strong connection, which is ideal for uninterrupted Instagram browsing and posting.

If you notice that the Wi-Fi signal is weak, consider moving closer to your router, as distance can significantly impact signal strength. Physical obstructions like walls and large furniture can also affect Wi-Fi performance. For a more immediate solution, try restarting your router to refresh the connection. Simply unplug the power cord, wait for about 30 seconds, and plug it back in. This can often clear up any minor connectivity glitches.

In some instances, your device may need a little nudge to reconnect to the network effectively. A quick toggle of the Airplane mode can serve this purpose well. Engage Airplane mode for a few seconds and then deactivate it to refresh your network connections. This method forces your device to re-establish communication with the nearest cell tower and often resolves transient connectivity issues.

Remember, a reliable Wi-Fi connection is paramount when trying to resolve the ‘Something Went Wrong’ error on Instagram. Ensuring you have a solid link to the internet is a fundamental step before diving into more complex troubleshooting methods.

3. Check Instagram Server Status

When Instagram isn’t behaving as expected, and you’ve already ascertained that your device’s connection is sound, it’s time to consider a larger scale issue: a potential Instagram server outage. Server outages can result in widespread access problems, affecting not just you but potentially millions of users worldwide. This makes the server status a vital checkpoint in your troubleshooting journey.

To verify Instagram’s server status, you can employ a variety of online tools and resources. Downdetector is a reputable service that offers real-time insights into the status of numerous services, including Instagram. It provides a platform where users can report issues, which are then aggregated to determine whether a service is experiencing widespread problems. By visiting the Downdetector page for Instagram, you can quickly discern if the difficulties you’re facing are part of a larger outage.

Another option is to check social media channels, such as Twitter, where Instagram officially communicates with its user base. Look for any announcements or user reports under hashtags like #instagramdown that can shed light on the situation. If there’s an ongoing outage, these platforms are often abuzz with user reports and official statements.

If you discover that Instagram’s servers are indeed down, your best course of action is patience. Server issues are typically resolved by the technical teams behind the scenes, and there’s little that can be done from the user’s end besides waiting for a resolution. Keep an eye on the aforementioned resources for updates on the server status. Once the servers are back up and running, you’ll be able to resume your Instagram activities without further ado.

In the meantime, use this pause as an opportunity to explore alternatives or catch up on other tasks. Rest assured, server outages, although inconvenient, are usually resolved in a timely manner, allowing you to get back to sharing and engaging with your community on Instagram soon.

4. Reboot Your Device

When your smartphone acts up, a quick reboot can be the technological equivalent of a breath of fresh air. It’s not just a cliché; restarting your device shuts down all running processes, which can release any temporary glitches holding your apps hostage. For the persistent “Something went wrong, try again later” error on Instagram, this fix is as simple as it is effective. To reboot, press and hold the power button, select ‘Restart’ or ‘Reboot’, and give your phone a moment to work its magic. Once it powers back on, you might find that Instagram is ready to cooperate.

5. Log Out and Log Back In

Another surprisingly effective fix is to log out of your Instagram account and then log back in. It’s a bit like telling Instagram to ‘forget’ who you are for a moment, which can clear any session-specific issues that might be causing the error. To log out, head to your profile, tap the menu (represented by three horizontal lines or the ‘hamburger’ icon), and select ‘Settings’. Scroll down to find ‘Log out’, and after a brief hiatus, log back in to re-establish a clean connection with the servers. This simple step often serves as a reset for your digital Instagram footprint and can be the key to resolving mysterious errors.

6. Reinstall the Instagram App

Sometimes, the solution to the vexing ‘Something Went Wrong’ message on Instagram is as simple as starting afresh. Reinstalling the Instagram app can act as a reset button, clearing out any corrupted data that could be causing the app to misbehave. Here’s how to reinstall Instagram and potentially sweep away those pesky problems:

1. Navigate to the Google Play Store or the App Store depending on your device. Tap on the search bar and type in “Instagram.”
2. Once you’ve located the app in the search results, select ‘Uninstall’. This will remove the current installation of Instagram from your device.
3. After the uninstallation is complete, tap ‘Install’ to download the latest version of the app. This ensures you’re using the most recent version, which often includes bug fixes and improvements.
4. Following the reinstallation, perform a restart of your smartphone. This step is crucial as it ensures that any temporary files that were potentially causing issues are completely cleared from your device’s memory.

Reinstalling the Instagram app is not just about tackling the immediate error. It’s also a proactive step to ensure smoother performance and stability going forward. With a fresh install, you’ll often notice a more responsive interface and quicker load times, enhancing your overall experience on the platform.

Remember, while reinstalling the app can be a powerful solution, it’s also a bit like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Therefore, it’s recommended to try this option after exhausting other troubleshooting steps, such as checking your network connection or rebooting your device, which are less drastic measures.

Once you’ve reinstalled Instagram, log in with your credentials and keep an eye out for improvements. If the error persists, don’t despair—additional solutions await in the next sections that will guide you through further steps to resolve the issue.

7. Clear Instagram Cache

One effective way to troubleshoot the pesky “Something Went Wrong” error on your Instagram app is by clearing the cache. This process removes temporary files that may be causing your app to misbehave. Over time, the Instagram app accumulates a cache of data that can sometimes become cluttered or corrupted, leading to unexpected errors. Clearing this cache is akin to giving your app a fresh start, without affecting your personal data like your profile and posts.

To clear the cache on your device, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to your device’s Settings.
2. Scroll down and select Apps & Notifications (this might be listed as “Apps” on some devices).
3. Tap on See All Apps to display all installed applications.
4. Find and select Instagram from the list.
5. Go to Storage and Cache.
6. Tap on Clear Cache to remove temporary files. If you suspect more significant issues, you can choose Clear Storage, but be aware that this will log you out and delete all app data from the device, requiring you to log in again.

After clearing the cache, restart the Instagram app. You should notice improved performance, and with some luck, the error message will no longer appear. It’s a simple solution that can often be overlooked, yet it is surprisingly effective at resolving various issues.

Remember, while clearing the cache does not typically remove your login details, Clear Storage will. Therefore, ensure you remember your login credentials before selecting this option. After completing this step, try to engage with Instagram again by liking, commenting, or posting to see if the error has been resolved.

By maintaining a regular cache-clearing routine, you can help keep your Instagram app running smoothly and prevent future occurrences of the “Something Went Wrong” error.

Note: The exact path to clear the cache may vary depending on your device’s make and model, and the version of the operating system you’re using.

8. Update the Instagram App

Ensuring that you are using the most recent iteration of the Instagram app is a pivotal step in troubleshooting the vexing ‘Something went wrong’ error. App developers frequently release updates to enhance functionality, squash bugs, and introduce new features that can improve your overall experience. It’s not uncommon for outdated versions to harbor issues that have since been rectified in newer releases.

To seamlessly update your app, embark on a quick journey to the digital marketplace on your device—either the Google Play Store for Android users or the App Store for those wielding an iOS device. Once there, invoke the search function to locate Instagram. If an update is available, you will be greeted with an ‘Update’ button. Tap it, and watch as your app transforms, potentially leaving behind the error that’s been plaguing your social media endeavors.

Here’s a streamlined guide to help you:

1. Open your app store (Google Play Store or App Store).
2. Type “Instagram” in the search bar and select the app from the search results.
3. If an update is available, the button next to the app will indicate ‘Update’ instead of ‘Open’.
4. Tap on ‘Update’ and wait for the process to complete.
5. Once updated, open Instagram to see if the error persists.

Remember, app updates not only address performance issues but also seal potential security vulnerabilities, making it a critical step for safeguarding your digital life. By keeping Instagram up to date, you’re not just troubleshooting—you’re also enhancing your app’s security and gaining access to the latest tools that Instagram has to offer.

Note that if your app is already up to date and you’re still encountering the error, there are further steps to explore, which are detailed in the upcoming sections. Each strategy builds upon the last, aiming to restore your Instagram experience to its full, untroubled glory.

9. Change Your Instagram Password

Occasionally, a simple yet effective way to resolve the ‘Something Went Wrong’ error on Instagram is by refreshing your account security with a new password. This action can sometimes clear up any glitches associated with login data or account verification processes. To embark on this troubleshooting journey, you’ll need to access your Instagram account through a web browser since the app itself doesn’t provide the option to change your password.

Begin by navigating to Instagram’s official website and logging in with your current credentials. Once you’re in, proceed to your profile page by clicking on your avatar, usually located at the bottom-right of the screen. Look for the gear icon that represents Settings, which is typically positioned in the top-right corner of your profile page. Here, you’ll encounter the ‘Change Password’ option.

As you select this function, you’ll be prompted to enter your current password twice for security reasons. This step ensures that the request is being made by the rightful account owner. Follow this by typing in your new password, which should be strong and unique to bolster your account against unauthorized access. A mix of letters, numbers, and symbols is always recommended for creating a robust password. Once you’re satisfied with your new passphrase, confirm the change by clicking on ‘Change Password’.

The switch to a new password might act as a reset mechanism, resolving underlying issues that were causing the error. After updating your password, go back to the Instagram app on your mobile device and log in with your new credentials. It’s a good practice to regularly update passwords to maintain account security, and in this instance, it might just be the trick to get you back to posting and engaging with your Instagram community without further interruptions. Remember, keeping your login details current is not only a good troubleshooting step but also a critical aspect of safeguarding your digital identity.

Should the error persist after this step, don’t worry—there are additional methods to explore that might just do the trick.

10. Temporarily Disable Your Instagram Account

When the usual troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the persistent ‘Something Went Wrong’ error on Instagram, taking a short break from the platform may be the key. Temporarily disabling your Instagram account is a lesser-known strategy that can effectively give the system time to sort out any lingering issues. This method is akin to a system reset, allowing any problematic data caches or glitched sessions to clear out.

It’s important to understand that disabling your Instagram account is not the same as deleting it. Your profile, photos, comments, and likes will be hidden and preserved during this period. When you’re ready to return, all your content will be waiting for you, just as you left it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to initiate this temporary hiatus:

1. Visit the Instagram website by entering instagram.com into your web browser.
2. Log in to your account with your credentials.
3. Access your profile by clicking on the profile icon, then navigate to ‘Edit Profile’.
4. Scroll down to find the ‘Temporarily disable my account’ option at the bottom right.
5. Select a reason for disabling your account from the dropdown menu – Instagram requires this for record-keeping purposes.
6. Re-enter your password to confirm your identity and the intention to disable the account.
7. Click on ‘Temporarily Disable Account’ to proceed. Your account will become inactive post-confirmation.

After these steps, your account will be out of sight to other Instagram users, and you won’t be able to log back in immediately. It’s advisable to wait for a few hours before attempting to reactivate your account to ensure that all processes are completed.

Once you’re ready to reactivate, simply log back into Instagram either on the app or the website. Your account should spring back to life, hopefully without the error that led you to this point. If the issue was related to your account’s data cache on Instagram’s servers, this step might just be the remedy you needed.

Remember, this fix, like the others, is not guaranteed to work for every instance of the ‘Something Went Wrong’ error, but it’s a valid part of your troubleshooting arsenal. If you find that this approach doesn’t resolve the problem, don’t worry—there are still a few more strategies to try.

Don’t hesitate to explore the next potential solution in this guide if the ‘Something Went Wrong’ issue still stands in the way of your Instagram experience.

11. Use Instagram App on Your PC

Encountering the “Something went wrong” error can be less frequent when you switch from your mobile device to a desktop environment. Instagram’s platform flexibility allows you to access your account through various mediums, which can be a clever workaround for this persistent problem. Using the Instagram app on your PC may serve as an effective alternative, circumventing issues tied to the mobile application.

For Windows users, Instagram offers a dedicated app that can be easily downloaded from the Microsoft Store. This app replicates the Instagram experience on your desktop and can potentially bypass glitches affecting the mobile version. To get started:

1. Navigate to the Microsoft Store website.
2. Use the search function to locate the Instagram application.
3. Click ‘Get’ to download and install the app on your Windows PC.
4. Once installed, launch the application and log in with your Instagram credentials.

If you find that the desktop app allows you to post without the error message, it’s a strong indication that the root of the issue lies within the mobile app or your phone’s specific configuration. This method not only provides you with immediate access to your Instagram feed but also offers a larger viewing space to manage your content and engage with your followers.

Remember, the interface on the desktop app may differ slightly from what you’re accustomed to on your phone. However, it retains the core functionality that Instagram users need. By leveraging this version, you’ll not only work around the frustrating “Something went wrong” error but also enjoy a fresh perspective on content browsing and creation on a larger screen.

While this isn’t a permanent fix, it allows you to continue your Instagram activities uninterrupted, ensuring that your online presence remains active as you seek a long-term solution to the mobile app’s issues.

12. Use Facebook to Sign In

Encountering the persistent ‘Something Went Wrong’ error on Instagram can be frustrating, but if you have previously linked your Instagram with your Facebook account, you have yet another avenue to access your Instagram profile seamlessly. This method can be particularly effective if the issue lies within the standalone Instagram login process.

To utilize this workaround, open your Facebook app and navigate to the settings menu. Look for the ‘Apps and Websites’ section or simply search for ‘Instagram’ within the settings. Here you will find the option to link your Instagram account—if not already done—or to use the existing connection to log into Instagram.

Note: If your accounts are linked, you should see Instagram listed among your connected apps. By selecting Instagram, you can review the details of the connection and ensure everything is in order.

Once you are on the Instagram settings page within the Facebook app, you can re-enter your Instagram credentials to reaffirm the link. This action can often bypass glitches associated with the Instagram app or login issues that are causing the ‘Something Went Wrong’ error. It’s a straightforward process:

1. Open the Facebook app and tap on the hamburger menu (three lines) in the top right corner.
2. Scroll down to ‘Settings & Privacy’ and select ‘Settings’.
3. Find and tap on ‘Instagram’.
4. You may be prompted to enter your Instagram login details here to connect the accounts.

By signing in through Facebook, you’re not only sidestepping potential login problems but also streamlining your social media experience. It’s a practical solution that leverages the interconnected nature of these platforms.

Remember, using Facebook to sign into Instagram is not just a workaround; it’s also a feature designed to make your digital life a bit easier. However, should this method not resolve the issue, don’t worry—there are still more steps to explore in troubleshooting the elusive ‘Something Went Wrong’ error.

Ready to move beyond the error message? Let’s explore additional devices and platforms that might offer a smoother Instagram experience.

13. Try a Different Device

Encountering the vexing “Something Went Wrong” error can often leave you feeling at a standstill. However, there’s a straightforward yet powerful step you can take to isolate the issue: switching devices. Whether it’s a different smartphone, a tablet, or a desktop computer, accessing your Instagram account on an alternate platform can provide critical insights into the nature of the problem.

Begin by signing into your Instagram account on the new device. If you find that you’re able to navigate seamlessly, upload content, and engage with your followers without the error rearing its head, you’ve gleaned a valuable piece of information—the problem is likely rooted in your original device. This differentiation is vital, as it narrows down the troubleshooting process, focusing your efforts on device-specific solutions.

On the alternate device, ensure you’re testing all the functionalities that previously triggered the error. This includes posting new content, commenting, and using the direct messaging feature. A successful action across these features on the new device underscores the need to address the issue on your phone.

Should the error persist on another device, it could indicate a broader issue with your account, which may require different troubleshooting steps. However, if your account operates without error on the alternative device, take the opportunity to report the glitch directly to Instagram. When faced with the error message on your phone, select the “Tell us” option. This feedback is crucial as it helps Instagram to diagnose and resolve issues, enhancing the user experience for everyone.

While this step might seem like a detour, it’s a strategic move that can save you from further frustration. By identifying whether the problem is device-specific or account-related, you can take informed steps towards a solution—bringing you one step closer to reclaiming your Instagram experience without any hiccups.

14. Contact the Instagram Help Center

When all other strategies have failed to resolve the “Something went wrong, try again later” error, it’s time to seek assistance directly from the source. Reaching out to the Instagram Help Center is your final recourse for troubleshooting this persistent issue. It’s an essential step to take, as it connects you with the experts who understand Instagram’s intricate workings.

Before you initiate contact, prepare a detailed account of the troubleshooting methods you’ve already attempted. This should include checking your network connection, confirming server status, clearing cache, updating the app, and any other steps you’ve followed based on the preceding sections of this guide. By doing so, you equip the support team with the necessary context to provide you with more targeted and effective solutions.

To contact the Instagram Help Center, navigate to their official support page. Here, you can submit a detailed report of your issue. Make sure to be as precise as possible, describing the error message and the impact it has on your user experience. Remember, the more information you provide, the more efficiently the Instagram team can diagnose and address your problem.

Be patient after submitting your request. The support team deals with a large volume of inquiries, and it might take some time for them to respond. However, rest assured that they are committed to helping users enjoy a seamless Instagram experience and will work diligently to resolve your issue.

In line with providing an efficient user journey, remember to follow up if you don’t receive a response within a reasonable timeframe. A gentle reminder can sometimes expedite the process. Meanwhile, keep an eye on any updates or announcements from Instagram that might indicate a solution or provide further instructions for users experiencing similar issues.

By taking these steps, you’re not only working towards solving your own problem but also potentially aiding in the improvement of Instagram’s platform by bringing a technical issue to their attention. This collaboration between users and the platform is vital in creating a more stable and enjoyable social media environment for everyone.

While waiting for a response, consider revisiting previous sections to ensure no stone has been left unturned in your troubleshooting journey. Should you discover any new solutions or workarounds, don’t forget to share your findings with the community. Your insights could be invaluable to others facing the same predicament.

As you navigate through these technical trials, keep in mind that technology is an ever-evolving landscape. Glitches and errors like the one you’re experiencing are often mere bumps in the road, leading to continuous improvements and updates that enhance user experience in the long run.

FAQ & Popular Questions

Q: Why am I getting the ‘Something Went Wrong Try Again Later’ error when posting on Instagram?
A: There can be multiple reasons for this error, such as network issues, Instagram servers being down, outdated Instagram app, technical issues, or a suspended or flagged account.

Q: How can I fix the ‘Something Went Wrong Try Again Later’ error on Instagram?
A: Here are a few fixes you can try:
1. Check your network connection to ensure it is working properly.
2. Update your Instagram app to the latest version.
3. Clear the cache and data of the Instagram app.
4. Log out of your account and then log back in again.

Q: How can I troubleshoot network issues causing the ‘Something Went Wrong Try Again Later’ error on Instagram?
A: To troubleshoot network issues, you can follow these steps:
1. Launch the Settings app on your device.
2. Navigate to Networks & Connections and select Cellular data.
3. Test your cellular data connection to ensure it is working properly.

Q: How can logging out and back in again fix the ‘Something Went Wrong Try Again Later’ error on Instagram?
A: Sometimes, simply signing out and back in to your Instagram account can resolve the error. To log out, go to your profile page and click the ‘Hamburger’ button in the upper-right corner of the screen. Then, log back in to your account.