How to Deactivate Facebook: Step-by-Step Guide to Control Your Online Presence

In today's hyper-connected world, taking a break from social media is becoming more common. Whether you're overwhelmed by constant notifications or simply want to focus on offline life, knowing how to deactivate Facebook can give you peace of mind.

But before you make a decision, it’s important to learn the difference between deactivating and deleting your account. Both serve different purposes and have different consequences. In this detailed guide, you’ll understand what each option means, how to disable Facebook temporarily, how to permanently delete your Facebook account, and even how to remove a Facebook account for a medically incapacitated person.

What is the Difference Between Deactivating and Deleting Facebook?

One of the most common questions users ask is:

What is the difference between deactivating and deleting Facebook?

Deactivating your account means your profile and all your information become invisible to others, but the data is saved. You can reactivate it anytime.

Deleting your account means all your data will be permanently erased and cannot be recovered.

In short:

Deactivation is temporary

Deletion is permanent

If you’re unsure, it’s safer to first temporarily deactivate Facebook before making a permanent move.

How to Temporarily Deactivate Facebook

To take a break without losing your account forever, here’s how to deactivate Facebook on both desktop and mobile.

On Desktop:

Go to your Facebook account settings

Click on Privacy Settings

Choose "Your Facebook Information"

Select Deactivation and Deletion

Click on Deactivate Account

Enter your password and confirm

On Mobile App:

Open the Facebook app settings

Tap the three horizontal lines (menu)

Scroll down to Settings & Privacy > Settings

Tap Personal and Account Information

Tap Account Ownership and Control

Choose Deactivation and Deletion

Tap Deactivate Account and follow prompts

After you complete these steps, your account will be temporarily disabled, and your profile won't be visible to others.'

How to Temporarily Deactivate Facebook on iPhone

If you're using the Facebook mobile app on iPhone, follow these steps to temporarily deactivate your Facebook account:

Open the Facebook app on your iPhone

Tap the three horizontal lines (☰) in the bottom right corner

Scroll down and tap Settings & Privacy → Tap Settings

Tap Personal and Account Information

Select Account Ownership and Control

Tap Deactivation and Deletion

Choose Deactivate Account and tap Continue to Account Deactivation

Follow the on-screen instructions and enter your password to confirm

This will temporarily disable Facebook, and your profile will be hidden from others. You can reactivate your Facebook account anytime by logging back in.

How to Reactivate Facebook Account

Can I reactivate Facebook after deactivation?

Absolutely. When you deactivate Facebook temporarily, your data remains intact.

To reactivate your Facebook account, simply:

Go to Facebook login page

Enter your email/phone and password

Press "Log in"

Your profile will be restored instantly with all your friends, messages, and posts.

This feature is perfect for users who want to take a break from Facebook without losing access to their digital memories.

How to Permanently Delete Facebook Account

If you're certain that you're done with Facebook forever, here’s how to delete Facebook account permanently:

Log in to Facebook

Go to Settings > Your Facebook Information

Click on Deactivation and Deletion

Select Permanently Delete Account

Follow the prompts and confirm

Before you proceed:

Back up your data using the download feature

Unlink third-party apps that use Facebook login

Deleting your Facebook account is irreversible. Once the process is completed, your information is gone forever.

So, if you’re still uncertain, consider how to deactivate Facebook account without deleting Messenger—a great middle ground.

How to Deactivate Facebook Account Without Deleting Messenger

One of the most common concerns people have is whether they can still use Messenger after deactivation.

Yes! You can deactivate Facebook account without deleting Messenger.

Just make sure:

You have Messenger installed and logged in before deactivating

You don’t delete your entire Facebook account

This way, you can stay in touch with friends through Messenger while your profile remains hidden.

How to Remove Facebook Account for a Medically Incapacitated Person

If you're managing the digital affairs of someone who is unable to use Facebook due to medical incapacity, you can request account removal.

Here’s how to remove a Facebook account for a medically incapacitated person:

Visit the Facebook Help Center

Search for “Special Request for Deceased or Incapacitated Person’s Account”

Fill out the form with proof of medical incapacity

Upload supporting documentation (doctor’s note or legal paperwork)

Submit the request

Facebook will review and act on your request accordingly.

FAQs

1. How do I deactivate my Facebook account?

You can do it via your Facebook account settings under "Deactivation and Deletion." Just follow the prompts and confirm.

2. Can I reactivate my Facebook after deactivation?

Yes, reactivation is as easy as logging in again.

3. What happens when I deactivate Facebook?

Your profile becomes invisible, but your data remains saved. You can still use Messenger if you choose.

4. Is deactivating Facebook the same as deleting it?

No. Deactivating is temporary and reversible; deleting is permanent and cannot be undone.

5. How to remove a Facebook account for a medically incapacitated person?

You’ll need to fill out a form in the Facebook Help Center and provide legal proof of medical incapacity.

Why People Choose to Temporarily Deactivate Facebook

There are many reasons someone might want to step away:

Social media break for mental health

Prevent digital distractions during exams or work

Privacy concerns

Avoiding online drama

By learning how to disable Facebook temporarily, you maintain your data while enjoying the benefits of disconnecting.

Deactivate vs Delete Facebook: Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re unsure, ask yourself:

Do I want to come back to Facebook later? → Deactivate

Do I want to erase my data completely? → Delete

Each user has different needs, and Facebook allows you the flexibility to choose either.

Steps Recap:

To Temporarily Deactivate Facebook

Go to Facebook Settings > Account Ownership and Control > Deactivation and Deletion

Select Deactivate

Confirm

To Permanently Delete Facebook

Go to Settings > Your Facebook Information > Deactivation and Deletion

Select Permanently Delete Account

Confirm

Final Thoughts

Whether you're planning to take a short break or leave for good, understanding how to deactivate Facebook is the first step. Remember, you always have control over your online presence.

Use this guide to decide whether to temporarily deactivate Facebook, permanently delete your Facebook account, or deactivate Facebook without deleting Messenger.

Also, if you’re helping a friend or family member, don’t forget Facebook provides options to remove an account for a medically incapacitated person.

Your digital life, your choice.

Key Takeaways:

Deactivating Facebook is temporary and reversible

Deleting Facebook is permanent

You can still use Messenger even after deactivation

Facebook allows account removal for medical cases

Always review Facebook account settings before taking action