Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide, boasting over 1 billion active monthly users as of September 2021 [source: Statista].

With its diverse range of features and vibrant community, Instagram allows individuals to share their photos, videos, and stories with the world. However, there may come a time when you decide to archive your Instagram account, whether due to privacy concerns, a desire to take a break, or simply to preserve your memories.

In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough on how to archive your Instagram account, ensuring that your data is safely stored and your online presence is temporarily or permanently removed.

step-by-step process of How To Archive Instagram Account

Step 1: Launch the Instagram App

Open the Instagram app on your mobile device. Ensure that you are logged in to the account you wish to archive.

Archiving your Instagram account allows you to temporarily hide your profile and posts from public view, providing a break from the platform while retaining your data. Follow these steps to archive your account:

Open the Instagram App

Locate the Instagram app on your mobile device’s home screen or app drawer. Tap on the app icon to launch it.

Log in to Your Account

If you are not already logged in, enter your Instagram username and password to log in to the account you want to archive. Make sure to provide the correct credentials associated with that account.

Once you have successfully launched the Instagram app and logged in, you can proceed to the next steps to archive your account.

step 2: Access Your Profile

Tap on the Profile Icon

Locate the profile icon, which is typically positioned at the bottom right corner of the screen. It resembles a silhouette of a person. Tap on this icon to access your Instagram profile.

Navigate to Your Instagram Profile

Upon tapping the profile icon, you will be redirected to your Instagram profile page. Here, you can view your posts, followers, and other account details.

By following these three simple steps, you can easily access your Instagram profile and proceed with archiving your account.

Step 3: Go to Settings

Locate the Menu Icon

On your Instagram profile, look for the three horizontal lines or dots at the top right corner of the screen. The placement may vary depending on your device and the version of the app.

Access the Settings Menu

Tap on the menu icon to access the settings menu. This will open up a range of options and preferences related to your Instagram account.

By following these steps, you will be able to locate and access the settings menu in the Instagram app. This will allow you to proceed with archiving your account or making other desired changes.

Step 4: Navigate to Privacy and Security

In order to archive your Instagram account, you need to access the “Privacy and Security” section within the settings menu. Here’s how:

Open Settings Menu

Tap on the three horizontal lines or dots located at the top right corner of your profile screen to open the settings menu.

Tap on “Privacy and Security”

Once you find the “Privacy and Security” option, tap on it to proceed to the next step of archiving your Instagram account.

By following these steps, you will easily navigate to the “Privacy and Security” section in the Instagram settings, bringing you closer to successfully archiving your account.

Step 5: Select Account Privacy

Under the “Privacy and Security” section

Upon accessing the settings menu, locate the “Privacy and Security” section. This section contains a range of options to manage your Instagram account’s privacy settings.

Look for the “Account Privacy” option and tap on it

Within the “Privacy and Security” section, scroll down until you find the “Account Privacy” option. Tap on it to proceed to the account privacy settings.

By following these steps, you will be able to locate and access the “Account Privacy” option, which is essential for managing the visibility of your Instagram account and its content.

step 6: Disable Your Account

On the “Account Privacy” page, you will find the necessary settings to make your Instagram account private.

Follow these steps to limit the visibility of your posts to approved followers only:

Access Account Privacy Settings

• Launch the Instagram app and go to your profile.
• Tap on the three horizontal lines or dots at the top right corner of the screen.
• Select “Settings” from the menu that appears.

Enable Private Account

• Scroll down and tap on “Privacy and Security” within the settings menu.
• Look for the “Account Privacy” option and tap on it.
• On the “Account Privacy” page, you will see an option called “Private Account.”

By following these steps, you can easily disable your Instagram account and restrict the visibility of your posts to a select group of followers.

step 7: Take a Break or Delete the App

At this stage, you have successfully archived your Instagram account, ensuring your posts are hidden from public view.

Now, you have two options: taking a break or permanently deleting your account.

Taking a Break

If you plan to take a break from Instagram, you can simply delete the app from your device. This step allows you to step away from the platform while preserving your account and its content. When you reinstall the app and log back in, your account will be restored with all your previous posts intact.

Permanently Deleting Your Account

If you decide to permanently delete your Instagram account, follow these steps:

1. Access the Instagram Help Center: Visit the Instagram website using a web browser on your computer or mobile device.
2. Search for “Delete Your Account”: Navigate to the Help Center and search for “Delete Your Account.”
3. Follow the Instructions: Follow the provided instructions to initiate the account deletion process. Be aware that this action is irreversible, and all your account data, including posts, followers, and messages, will be permanently deleted.

Carefully consider which option aligns with your intentions, whether it’s taking a break to maintain the option of returning in the future or permanently removing your presence from Instagram.

Conclusion

Archiving your Instagram account can be a beneficial step to safeguard your content or take a break from the platform. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can easily archive your Instagram account. Whether you choose to temporarily hide your posts by making your account private or permanently delete your account, the decision ultimately rests with you and your preferences. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a final choice. By taking control of your online presence, you can ensure the privacy and security of your Instagram account.