How to fix WhatsApp Web is not working error? Here are 10 fixes you can try when the web client of the messaging service does not sync properly.
WhatsApp Web allows us to receive and send messages by syncing with the mobile app. As we spend hours in the app texting, being able to connect it to another device is one of the most useful features of the messaging service. Though it is not without problems as many users have been dealing with WhatsApp Web not working on PC errors for some time now.
In this guide, you will find 10 tested methods to fix the connection or syncing problem of WhatsApp.
How to fix WhatsApp Web not working error?
Before we proceed with the troubleshooting steps, note that this problem can be related to an incompatible browser, slow internet connection, or an outdated version of the app. VPNs, browser issues, and corrupted cache can also result in this error.
1. Make sure there is nothing wrong with WhatsApp on mobile.
Before you try the methods below, ensure that everything's in order with the app. Open WhatsApp on your phone to see if you can send and receive messages. If there are problems with it, the web client will not be able to complete the syncing process.
Visit Down Detector to see if the problem is related to the messaging service.
The website will show you all of the recent user reports about outages and connection issues.
2. Clear cache.
A cache is a temporary place for a subset of data. It removes the need for downloading scripts and images every time you open a certain app.
It is essential for reduced loading times and faster operations, but it is also subject to file corruption. Certain issues might cause connection or syncing issues that is similar to WhatsApp Web not connecting error. Here's how to clear the WhatsApp cache:
- Go to phone settings.
- Tap on Apps.
- Tap on Manage apps.
- Find and tap on WhatsApp.
- Tap on Clear data and select Clear cache as seen in the screenshot below.
3. Clear cookies and browsing history.
Browser cookies are important to a more efficient browsing experience as they personalize the web based on your past preferences. Though they are also prone to various issues like cookie corruption, which can easily disrupt the functioning apps. It should also help in WhatsApp Web not working error.
Here's how to clear browser cookies.
- Tap on the three dots at the upper-right corner of the screen.
- Click on Settings.
- Navigate to the Privacy and security window.
- Click on Clear browsing data.
- Make sure you have selected cookies and other site data.
- Click on Clear data.
Note that your browsing experience on websites that you visit regularly will be as if you have never visited them before. The data stored in the cache will be gone, along with your previous browsing preferences.
4. Switch to incognito mode.
Incognito Mode offers the chance to browse the internet without the cache and the cookies. It opens a plain browser window devoid of trackers and it does not personalize the web experience as well.
That's why Incognito Mode serves as a safe window to see if there's anything wrong with a certain web client. Try opening WhatsApp Web in incognito mode.
If you are on Google Chrome, press CTRL + Shift + N at the same time to open the switch to this browsing mode. You also open it from the settings menu.
5. Restore Google Chrome settings to default.
Most users share that they were able to tackle this issue by making a configuration in Google Chrome settings. If WhatsApp not working error occurs on Google Chrome, here's how you can here are the steps of this possible fix:
6. Check your internet connection.
A slow internet connection can result in a series of connection issues. If the connection between the internet and your device is not stable, try resetting your router. You can also disconnect for a minute and reconnect again.
7. Switch to mobile data.
Unlike your home network, the mobile data is provided directly by your phone operator and does not get slow easily. If you have enough mobile data plan, enable it by following this small guide below.
- Swipe down to open the quick settings of your phone.
- Turn off the Wi-Fi connection.
- Tap on Mobile data.
8. Disable VPN.
VPNs are excellent companions when it comes to private browsing. While they do wonders in offering a more private experience, they can be the source of similar connection issues.
- If your VPN is an extension, click on the puzzle icon at the top-right of the screen.
- Click on the VPN extension and find the disable option.
9. Check if the browser is compatible with WhatsApp Web.
Incompatible browsers can prevent the connection between the web client and the mobile app. That's why you should make sure that the browser is compatible with WhatsApp Web. Browsers like Opera, Brave, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome support the web version of the messaging services.
On the other hand, outdated versions might lose their compatibility as well. Ensure that your browser is updated to its latest version.
10. Try a different browser.
If the issue still persists, we suggest switching to another browser until the problem with the current one receives a fix. Until WhatsApp Web becomes available in your favorite browser again, install another one to continue with your texting.
Conclusion
The web client of the application has received numerous updates since its launch. From the long-awaited dark mode to desktop notifications, it has become an integral part of our digitalized lives as well. On the other hand, the updates often come with their own problems that cause various issues. And WhatsApp Web not working is definitely one of the most notorious issues.
In this guide, we have complied 10 troubleshooting methods to fix the syncing or connection problems of WhatsApp Web.
Paul Rose Jr is the Editor in Chief of Wealth of Geeks & manages the Associated Press program for The Insiders network. He has worked as TV News Producer, Forensic Analyst, and Train Conductor, among many other things. He’s the former TV Editor for InfuzeMag and owns more books, DVDs, and comics than most people have seen in their lifetimes. When he’s not writing or editing on Wealth of Geeks, he exercises his creative muscle writing screenplays and acting in film and television in Los Angeles, CA.