Understand the Difference between Deactivation and Deletion
Before deactivating your Facebook account, it's important to understand the distinction between deactivation and deletion. Deactivating your account temporarily suspends your profile, making it invisible to others, while retaining your data. On the other hand, deleting your account permanently removes all your data from Facebook's servers. If you're unsure, deactivation gives you the flexibility to reactivate your account later.
Step 1: Access Your Account Settings
Click on your profile picture located in the top right corner of the Facebook homepage.
Step 2: Navigate to the Settings Menu
From the drop-down menu, select "Settings & Privacy," and then click on "Settings."
Step 3: Locate Accounts Center
If you see "Accounts Center" at the top left of your Settings menu, you can proceed with deactivating your account through Accounts Center. If "Accounts Center" is at the bottom left of your Settings menu, you can deactivate your account through your Facebook Settings.
Option 1: Deactivate via Accounts Center
Step 4: Open Accounts Center
Click on your profile picture in the top right corner of Facebook.
Step 5: Access Personal Details
Select "Settings & Privacy," then click on "Settings."
Step 6: Go to Account Ownership and Control
Click on "Accounts Center" located at the top left of your screen.
Step 7: Navigate to Deactivation or Deletion
Under "Account Settings," click on "Personal Details."
Step 8: Choose Deactivation
From the options presented, click on "Account Ownership and Control."
Step 9: Select the Account to Deactivate
Under "Account Ownership and Control," choose the specific account or profile you wish to deactivate.
Step 10: Initiate Deactivation
Click on "Deactivate Account" to begin the deactivation process.
Step 11: Confirmation and Completion
Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the deactivation. Click "Continue" and complete any additional steps if prompted.
Option 2: Deactivate via Facebook Settings
Step 4: Go to Account Ownership and Control
Under "Account Settings," click on "Account ownership and control."
Step 5: Access Deactivation or Deletion
Select "Deactivation or deletion" from the options provided.
Step 6: Choose the Account to Deactivate
From the available accounts or profiles, select the one you want to deactivate.
Step 7: Initiate Deactivation
Click on "Deactivate account" to begin the deactivation process.
Step 8: Confirm and Finalize
Follow the instructions presented on-screen to confirm the deactivation. Click "Continue" and complete any additional steps as required.
Conclusion:
By following the outlined steps, you can easily deactivate your Facebook account either through the Accounts Center or your Facebook Settings. Remember that deactivating your account is a temporary measure, allowing you to take a break from the platform while retaining the option to reactivate it later.
