To fix the unexpected login error, wait, turn off airplane mode, switch data connections, restart the router, disable VPN, reset network settings, or contact your ISP. You can also restart the app or device, use a different browser or device, log out and back in, uninstall and reinstall, update your device and app, clear cache, and contact customer support.
Facebook is a widely used social media platform that has been around for a long time. It’s favored by people of all ages, particularly adults who have been using it since the beginning and may be hesitant to switch to other social media apps.
Facebook has captivating features to engage users, and its community fosters effective communication among people.
The safe environment and clear guidelines on Facebook make it a preferred choice among users.
Why Is Facebook Displaying The “Unexpected Error” Message When I’m Trying to Log In?
Despite Facebook’s continuous updates to meet user demands and remain a popular choice, occasional issues are quite common. One reported issue involves users encountering an error message when attempting to log into their Facebook accounts. The message reads, “An unexpected error occurred. Please try logging in again.”
Let’s explore the reasons you might be experiencing this unexpected error:
CAUSE
EXPLANATION
Internet Issues
Since a robust internet connection is crucial when using Facebook, encountering issues with your internet, such as it being slow or not working can lead to problems.
Temporary Glitches
The unexpected login error could be due to temporary glitches affecting the app. These glitches are beyond your control and can impact the app’s functionality, affecting the overall user experience.
Outdated Software
Outdated software affects the functioning of the app causing this error message. Moreover, outdated apps or device versions can also impact your internet connection.
Cache Problems
Sometimes, along with the stored data, glitches or viruses can end up in your cache. It’s also possible that the cached files become corrupted, or the cache is so full that it causes issues with the app.
Server Downtime
As the name suggests, it means that Facebook’s server is facing problems or undergoing maintenance, resulting in users being unable to access the platform properly. Experiencing this unexpectedly and without warning can be frustrating.
Facebook “An unexpected error occurred. Please try logging in again
How To Fix The “Unexpected Error” When Logging into Facebook?
Learn to fix Facebook Login error
Now, let’s turn our attention to resolving this issue. Try the suggested solutions that best fit your situation, addressing the specific cause of your error. This way, you can effectively eliminate the problem and get back to using Facebook without any issues.
Wait for A While
I understand waiting can be challenging, especially in situations like these where patience seems hard to find. However, waiting can surprisingly be beneficial, saving you time and effort from trying unnecessary fixes. It’s effective when dealing with two scenarios:
Temporary glitches.
Facebook server downtime.
After ruling out connectivity, cache, update issues, and device-related problems, you’re left with these two possibilities.
To identify which one it is, you can check other social media platforms like Twitter, WhatsApp, and Instagram. If the server is down, you’ll likely find tweets, messages, or posts about it. Alternatively, a quick search for “Facebook down” on Google can provide the official update on server status.
If the server is down, all you have to do is just wait. However, if it’s not, it’s likely a temporary glitch. In this case, waiting is still the first step, as minor glitches often resolve on their own over time. If the issue persists, then you may need to explore other troubleshooting steps.
Turn off Airplane Mode
All phones have a feature called airplane mode, which, when activated, turns off the signals on your phone, cutting connectivity. You might think it’s obvious not to turn on airplane mode and then try to log in to Facebook.
However, human error is a part of life, and sometimes we may forget to check if we have a proper internet connection. This can lead to an error message when trying to log in.
Additionally, accidental button presses, like turning on airplane mode during a call, can happen without you realizing it, resulting in login issues.
The main thing here is to ensure you have a stable internet connection before using Facebook. Make sure your Wi-Fi or data is turned on, your phone signals are strong, and airplane mode is turned off to avoid encountering this error message.
Switch from Wi-FI to Cellular Data Or Vice Versa
If you’ve made sure that airplane mode is off, and your Wi-Fi or data is turned on, but you’re still facing login issues, your internet connectivity may be causing the problem.
To confirm, try tasks like searching on Google or sending a message on WhatsApp or anything that requires the internet.
If the internet is the issue, here’s a simple fix: if you’re using Wi-Fi, switch to your cellular data, or if you’re using data, consider switching to Wi-Fi.
By trying both, you can identify which connection works better and allows you to log in easily.
Restart Your Router
WiFi Router
If you’ve confirmed that the internet is causing the issue and you cannot switch to cellular data, your initial step should be to restart the router. Restarting the router provides a refresh and can resolve any temporary issues on its end.
Unplug the cable from both the power supply and the router.
You’ll have to wait for at least 30 seconds to a minute.
Securely plug the cable back in.
Disable Any VPNs
Regardless of the benefits third-party apps or VPNs bring, they can sometimes lead to connectivity problems. Many users have reported issues, especially with connectivity when using VPNs or similar apps.
It’s crucial to be cautious before downloading third-party apps, ensuring they’re reliable to avoid potential issues like viruses. Similarly, when opting for a VPN, it’s advisable to conduct thorough research and choose a reputable one.
In the best-case scenario, turning off your VPN or removing third-party apps might resolve your internet issue. If you can log in successfully after taking these steps, it helps identify the real culprit.
This not only resolves the problem but also helps you avoid downloading the problematic app or using the VPN in the future.
Reset Network Settings
Among all the solutions I’ve shared on how to address internet issues and overcome the login error, this particular step is a more serious measure and is typically considered a last resort. When you do this, all your settings revert to default, eliminating any bugs and allowing you to log in successfully.
Follow the steps discussed below to reset your network settings:
Go to your device settings.
Scroll to find “Additional Settings.”
Click on it.
Click on “Back up and reset.”
Navigate to “Erase all data (factory reset).”
Click on “Reset network settings.”
Verify your identity, and you’re good to go.
Note that these steps may vary slightly depending on your device and its settings.
Contact Your Internet Service Provider
If none of the previous solutions seem to be working and your internet issues remain unresolved, the final step would be to reach out to your internet service provider (ISP). They are professionals who can assist you with a guaranteed fix.
They’ll determine if the issue is on their end and inform you if they are working to resolve it, asking for your patience.
Alternatively, they may provide insights into the reasons behind your internet issues, such as unpaid bills or router problems.
Restart The App
Restarting the app might seem like a simple solution, and you might be unsure if it really works. However, you’d be surprised by how many people have reported success with this method, resolving their issues effectively.
Follow these steps to restart your app:
Go back to your home screen.
Swipe up, double-click the home button, or click the horizontal three-lined icon at the bottom of the screen (or whatever suits your phone) to access the app previews.
Click on “Close All.”
Wait for a while.
Open the Facebook app again.
Restart Your Device
This is another simple way through which you can give your device a fresh start, possibly resolving any minor, temporary issues that might be affecting your Facebook app and preventing you from logging in.
To restart your device, follow these steps:
Press and hold the power button until your background becomes blurred, and you see a slider or some options on your screen.
Toggle to restart your device or click on restart.
Once your phone restarts, open Facebook again. Hopefully, the error message will be gone.
Login Through Browser
At times, the problem might be specific to the Facebook app and not affect the browser. So, if you encounter login issues on the app, try going to your browser and logging into Facebook from there.
If you can log in smoothly on the browser, it indicates that the issue was with the app and not your account. This realization can provide some relief.
Use A Different Device
As you’re aware, bugs or device-related issues can lead to app malfunctions, causing problems like unexpected login errors. If you urgently need to use Facebook or ensure your account is okay, consider using another device, whether it’s a phone or PC.
If you can smoothly use and log in on Facebook using the alternate device, it serves as an indicator to address the issues on your original device to be able to log in seamlessly from there too.
Log Out And Log Back In
Log out and Log back in
By now, you may understand that if there are bugs in your account, app, or device, the simplest and most effective solution is often to give it a refresh. This way, after refreshing, the bugs are usually gone, and you can log in and use Facebook without issues.
Since you’re unable to log in through your device, consider using a different one or a browser for this fix.
To log out and back in, follow these steps:
Open Facebook.
Tap on the horizontal three-lined icon located at the bottom right.
Scroll to find “Log Out.”
Click on it.
Wait for a moment.
Enter your credentials again.
Uninstall And Reinstall The App
Uninstall the app
Uninstalling and reinstalling the app is another effective method to resolve the unexpected login error. Many people have found this helpful.
Follow these steps:
Go back to your home screen.
Press and hold the Facebook icon until you see a menu.
Click on “Uninstall.”
Wait for a moment.
Go to your Play Store.
Search for “Facebook.”
Click on it.
Click on “Install.”
Update The App And Your Device
As you’re aware, outdated versions can lead to issues. It’s good practice to regularly update your device and app to avoid encountering such errors.
To update your app, follow these steps:
Go to Play Store.
Search for “Facebook.”
Click on it.
Click on “Update.”
Once updated, your app will be reinstalled.
You can then go back and try logging in again.
To update your device, follow these steps:
Go to your device settings.
Scroll to find “Software Update.”
Click on it.
Click on “Update.”
Log in again, and hopefully, you won’t see this error again.
Clear Cache
Clear cache| Clear data
Now that you understand that, despite being beneficial, the cache can sometimes cause issues, it’s advisable to clear it from time to time to prevent such problems.
While it’s highly unlikely, as I’ve covered all possible fixes for this issue which have proven helpful for many in resolving not just this problem but related errors too, there are instances where the issue might be more complicated and persistent.
In such cases, these fixes might not work. If you find yourself in this situation, the only choice left is to contact Facebook customer support.
Their efficient team will promptly respond, thoroughly investigate the matter, and provide the necessary assistance to ensure you can successfully log in.
Sum Up
Facebook is a widely used social media platform and it may sometimes display an “Unexpected Error” when attempting to log in.
This unexpected login error may be due to internet issues, outdated software, server downtime, cache problems, or temporary glitches.
To resolve this issue, fix your internet, restart or update the app and device, disable VPN, use a different device, etc.
