Why is WhatsApp not working and how to fix it? Full guide

Tengrinews.kz - On the evening of December 11, 2024, WhatsApp users worldwide reported a major outage. Thousands of complaints were registered on Downdetector, with users experiencing issues sending messages, loading media, and connecting to servers.
Why is WhatsApp not working?
Here are the main reasons that could be causing WhatsApp to malfunction:

Global server outages
Technical problems on WhatsApp's end can trigger mass outages. This is confirmed by multiple user complaints and media reports.
Internet connection issues
Unstable or missing internet connections are a common cause of WhatsApp disruptions. The app requires a stable Wi-Fi or mobile internet connection to function properly.
Outdated app version
Using an older version of WhatsApp may result in compatibility issues with the service's servers. Regular updates fix bugs and support new features.
Device system errors
Errors within the device’s operating system, such as memory overload or conflicts with other apps, can also cause WhatsApp to stop working.

How to fix WhatsApp if it's not working
If you’re having trouble using WhatsApp, here’s what you can do to resolve the issue:

Check WhatsApp service status
Visit websites like Downdetector to see if the outage is global. If it is, you’ll need to wait for WhatsApp to resolve it.
Check your internet connection

Ensure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or mobile data.

Restart your router or switch to a different network.
Update the app
Open the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android).
Install the latest version of WhatsApp to ensure compatibility.
Restart your device. Restarting your phone can resolve temporary system issues affecting the app.
Reinstall WhatsApp

If none of the above works, uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
Make sure to back up your chats beforehand to avoid losing important messages.
What if the problem persists?
If none of these methods solve the issue, here’s what you can do:

Check WhatsApp’s official social media pages (like Twitter) for updates on the outage.
Wait for the developers to fix the issue, as global outages are usually resolved within a few hours.
Alternative messaging apps
If WhatsApp is down, you can use these popular alternatives to stay connected:

Telegram – Offers group chats, file sharing, and end-to-end encryption.Viber – Supports chats, calls, and video calls.Signal – Focuses on privacy and secure communication.
WhatsApp outages are rare, but they do happen. If the app isn’t working, stay calm, try the suggested solutions, and use alternative messengers if necessary.
On December 11-12, 2024, users reported mass outages on WhatsApp, with issues also affecting Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. This information is accurate as of December 11-12, 2024. For the latest updates on WhatsApp’s status, check official sources.