Are you looking to take a break from Facebook but don't know how to deactivate your account? We've got you covered. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of deactivating your Facebook account in 2018, step by step.
Understanding Facebook Account Deactivation
Before we dive into the process, let's clarify what deactivating your Facebook account means. When you deactivate your account:
- Your profile won't be visible to other users on Facebook.
- Some information, like messages you've sent, may still be visible to the people you've messaged.
- Facebook saves your information in case you decide to reactivate your account.
If you're sure you want to proceed, let's get started.

How to Deactivate Your Facebook Account on a Computer
Step 1: Access the Deactivation Page
To deactivate your account, you'll need to access the deactivation page on Facebook's settings. Here's how:
- Click on the downward-facing arrow in the top-right corner of Facebook.
- Select "Settings" from the dropdown menu.
- In the left-hand menu, click on "Your Facebook Information".
- Click on "Deactivation and Deletion".
Step 2: Choose to Deactivate
On the Deactivation and Deletion page, you'll see two options: "Deactivate Account" and "Permanently Delete Account". Since we're looking to deactivate, click on "Deactivate Account".
Step 3: Confirm Your Decision
Facebook will ask you to confirm your decision. You can also choose to download a copy of your information before deactivating. Once you're ready, click on "Deactivate".

How to Deactivate Your Facebook Account on a Mobile Device
If you're using a mobile device, the process is slightly different. Here's how to deactivate your account on the Facebook app:
- Tap the three horizontal lines (☰) in the top-right corner.
- Scroll down and tap on "Settings & Privacy", then "Settings".
- Tap on "Account Ownership and Control", then "Deactivation and Deletion".
- Tap on "Deactivate Account", then follow the prompts to confirm.
What Happens After You Deactivate Your Account
After deactivating your account, your profile will no longer be visible to others. However, Facebook may still use your data to personalize your experience if you decide to reactivate your account in the future.
If you change your mind and want to reactivate your account, you can do so by logging back into Facebook. Your profile and information will be restored, and you can pick up where you left off.
Remember, deactivating your account is different from deleting it. If you want to permanently delete your account, you'll need to follow a different process. We recommend deactivating first to give yourself time to think about your decision.
That's it! You've now successfully deactivated your Facebook account. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to Facebook's support team.