Fix: Unknown Network Error on Instagram

An Unknown Network Error Has Occurred” is a message that is seen while trying to log in to Instagram. This message usually indicates an issue with the internet configurations on the mobile that you are using. Keep in mind that this can also be caused due to corrupt App preferences.

An Unknown Network Error Has Occurred

What Causes the “An Unknown Network Error Has Occurred” Error on Instagram?

We found the underlying causes to be:

  • Cache: In some cases, the launch configurations that have been cached by the application to prevent long loading times and to improve overall experience might have been corrupted due to which the application is facing issues while logging in.
  • Corrupt Data: It is also possible that the app data might have been corrupted due to which the error is being triggered. The login data stored by the application, if corrupted, might prevent the app from being able to log in to your account.
  • App Preferences: Sometimes, the App preference settings might be corrupted due to which the error might be triggered.
  • Corrupt Files: In some cases, the App files might have been corrupted due to which the error is being triggered. All the app files are required to be intact in order for it to work properly.
  • APN Issue: The mobile might have selected the wrong APN configuration due to which the internet might either be vulnerable or insecure due to which the error is being triggered. You will need a strong, reliable and fast internet signal to be able to log in to your account.

Solution 1: Clearing Cache

Clearing the cache can get rid of the corrupt launch configurations and might fix the issue with the application. Note that this won’t delete any of your important files related to Instagram or the log in details. In order to clear the cache:

  1. Drag down the notifications panel and click on the “Settings” icon.
    Dragging down the notifications panel and tapping on the “Settings” option
  2. Click on the “Applications” option and select “Apps”.
    Clicking on the “Apps” option
  3. Scroll Down and select “Instagram” from the list.
  4. Click on the “Storage” option and select the “Clear Cache” button.
    Tapping on the “Clear Cache” button
  5. Start the application and check to see if the issue persists.

Solution 2: Clearing Data

If the login data and other stored data related to Instagram has been corrupted, it might prevent the application from being able to log in. Therefore, in this step, we will be clearing this stored data. Note that this will not delete any pictures/videos but it will get rid of the login information that might have been saved on the device.

  1. Drag down the notifications panel and click on the “Settings” icon.
    Dragging down the notifications panel and tapping on the “Settings” option
  2. Select the “Applications” option and tap on “Apps”.
    Clicking on the “Apps” option
  3. Scroll below and click “Pokemon Go” from the list.
  4. Select the “Storage” option and tap the “Clear Data” button.
    Selecting Clear Data option
  5. Launch the game and check to see if the issue persists.

Solution 3: Resetting App Preferences

If the App Preferences have been configured incorrectly, this error might be triggered. Therefore, in this step, we will be resetting them to the defaults. For that:

  1. Drag down the notifications panel and click on the “Settings” icon.
    Dragging down the notifications panel and tapping on the “Settings” option
  2. Select the “Applications” option and tap on “Apps”.
    Clicking on the “Apps” option
  3. Click on the “Three Dots” in the top right corner and select “Reset App Preferences”.
    Selecting the “Reset App Preferences” option
  4. Restart the mobile and launch the Instagram app.
  5. Try to log in and check if the issue persists.

Solution 4: Resetting APN

Sometimes, the APN configuration might be preventing Instagram from being able to log in. Therefore, in this step, we will be resetting the APN to default. For that:

  1. Drag down the notifications panel and click on the “Settings” icon.
    Dragging down the notifications panel and tapping on the “Settings” option
  2. Select the “Wireless & Network” option and tap on “Mobile Network”.
  3. Click on the “Access Point Names (APN)” option and tap the “Three Dots” in the top right corner.
    Clicking on “Access Point Names”
  4. Select the “Reset to Defaults” option and restart your mobile.
  5. Try to log in to Instagram and check to see if the issue persists.

Solution 5: Reinstalling App

If the situation still persists, reinstalling the application can always be a good idea. Therefore, in this step, we will first be uninstalling Instagram and then reinstall it after downloading it from the Play Store.

  1. Press and hold the “Instagram” icon and select the “Uninstall this app” button.
    Uninstalling the application
  2. Wait for the application to be uninstalled.
  3. Click on the “Google Play Store” icon and select the “Search” box.
  4. Type in “Instagram and press “Enter”.
    Selecting “Instagram” from the search results.
  5. Click on the first option and select the “Install” button.
  6. Wait for the application to be installed and check to see if the issue persists.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kevin Arrows


Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.