Before we move to the solutions, it’s essential to know the reason behind the problem. This will save you from trying solutions repeatedly.
1. Issues in Video Format or Compression
Instagram favors videos in the MP4 format (H.264 video codec and AAC audio). Files that are large and/or of unsupported codecs will be stalled at the point of upload since the app will attempt and fail to encode them.
A personal pro-tip: Once upon a time, I spent hours trying to understand why my 4K drone footage wouldn’t post. The reason? The background compression of Instagram had trouble handling the file’s bitrate. Once modified to export at 1080p and a lower bitrate, it posted immediately.
2. Overloaded Instagram Servers
It’s not always you—it might be their server glitching sometimes. If Instagram might be temporarily disabled or down, you might be stuck even if the internet you’re using is flawless.
3. Background App Conflicts
Other applications also running in the background/can be busy using the available bandwidth in cloud backups.
4. Restrictions of Accounts/Content
“Breaking community rules” – even if inadvertent – can create “shadow” restrictions on the account.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Instagram Videos Uploading Issues
Here’s a checklist of things to work through when you find yourself struggling with uncooperative file uploads:
- Check the file type
1. Check if Instagram Is Temporarily Disabled
Before proceeding, first check if the problem occurs on the Instagram side. Check the service status website or the official Instagram X (Twitter) account regarding the outage.
Reality Check: When the Instagram servers are down, nothing will work no matter what troubleshooting you do locally. Wait and be ready to post when the engagement times are at their peak.
2. Re-export your video in the proper format
Recommended settings:
- MP4 format
- Full 1080
- 30 frames per second
- Bitrate: 3,500 – 5,000
What’s at stake: Instagram compresses each video when it’s uploaded. A optimized file quickens the upload speed and eliminates freeze frames.
3. Clear the App Cache
The old cache data can create upload loops.
How to:
- iOS: Delete and re-install the Instagram app.
- Android: Go to Settings → Apps → Instagram → Storage → Clear Cache.
4. Switch Between Wi-Fi and Mobile Data
In some instances, the problem can be the Wi-Fi router itself—even if you display full signals. A remedy might be to move to mobile data.
Lesson learned: During my hotel stay, I found myself struggling against failed uploads for hours until turning off the WiFi and doing it through 4G.
5. Switch Off ‘Data Saver Mode’ in Instagram
The data saver available in Instagram can greatly reduce the speed at which images can be
Path: Profile → Menu → Settings → Account → Data Usage → Turn off “Use less data.”
6. Close Other Bandwidth-Hungry Apps
A background sync from applications such as Google Photos or Dropbox can sneaky thyrate thy upload speed.
Pro-Tip: Post to Instagram when the above apps are not in use.
7. Update or Reinstall Instagram
The risk of being affected also increases if you are using an outdated version of the app. This might cause problems in the
8. Check Account Restrictions
If your posts continue to fail, you should also see if you have notifications from the platform regarding “Account Status” in your settings.
9. Restart Your Device
It’s the cliché recommendation because it’s effective: restarting fixes intermittent issues.
Advanced Solutions When Nothing Works
If you’ve already applied the above steps and are stumped, this is where things get more interesting.
Check DNS Settings
Using Google’s (8.8.8.8) DNS might help you connect better to the Instagram server.
Upload at a Different Time
When there’s heavy traffic (evenings and weekends), it might delay the processing speed. Try uploading early morning and late night.
Utilize Instagram Creator Studio (Desktop)
In case the mobile upload doesn’t work, you can also upload the video through the Instagram Creator Studio from your computer. This will automatically sync with your account.
Common Misconceptions Regarding Instagram Uploading
MYTH #1: “If Wi-Fi works for browsing, it should work for uploads.”
An example of Reality: Uploading needs a constant connection. One can achieve constant downloads but unpredictable uploads.
Myth 2: ‘Bigger file size means higher quality on Instagram.’
The truth: Instagram compresses all images. A massive file will not bring about image quality—it might even degrade it to a worse extent.
How to Avoid Future Upload Issues
We can:
- Make sure your app updated often
- Follow the video requirements suggested by Instagram
- Do not edit large files at the last minute through Instagram – do the editing through a reliable app beforehand
- Check the Instagram server status before posting sensitive information
Final Thoughts
Since Uploading videos can be equivalent to banging their heads against a brick wall—especially when the clock is ticking regarding engagement opportunities. The best part? Most of the problems are temporary. Re-exporting in the correct format, switching between the data connections, or just waiting out the temporary Instagram blackout – you can do all of this without pulling the hair out of your head because you will be equipped with this toolkit.