Updated July 2025 – Learn how to back up your Facebook archive and safely delete or deactivate your account.
Thinking about leaving Facebook? Whether you’re taking a break or quitting for good, it’s smart to download your data first. This way, you can keep your memories, messages, and photos – even after your account is gone.
This guide shows you exactly how to download your Facebook archive, understand the difference between deactivation and deletion, and follow the right steps to leave Facebook without losing your content.
Step 1: Download Your Facebook Archive
Before you delete anything, download your full archive:
- Visit facebook.com/dyi
- Choose:
- Data format: HTML (recommended) or JSON
- Media quality & date range
- Select the data types you want to include
- Click Create File
- Wait for the download link (email & in-app notification)
- Download the ZIP file
💡 Use WinZip to extract it and pCloud to store it securely.
Step 2: Deactivate or Delete – What’s the Difference?
| Action | What happens |
|---|---|
| Deactivate | Your profile is hidden, but your data is retained. You can return anytime by logging in. |
| Delete | Your entire Facebook account is permanently erased – including posts, photos, messages, friends, and activity history. |
If you’re unsure, start with deactivation.
Step 3: How to Deactivate Your Facebook Account
- Go to facebook.com/settings
- Click “Accounts Center” → “Personal details”
- Select “Account Ownership and Control”
- Choose Deactivation or Deletion
- Select your Facebook account
- Choose Deactivate account
- Follow the prompts and confirm
✅ You can log in at any time to reactivate your account.
Step 4: How to Permanently Delete Your Facebook Account
Ready to quit for good? Here’s how:
- Visit the Account Deletion Page
- Click “Delete Account”
- Re-enter your password to confirm
- Finalize the request
⏳ Facebook delays full deletion for 30 days in case you change your mind. During that time, you can still log in and cancel the process.
⚠️ After 30 days, deletion is permanent and irreversible.
Where Should You Store Your Data?
Once your account is gone, your archive is all that’s left. Make sure it’s safe.
Recommended tools:
- ✅ pCloud: 10 GB encrypted cloud storage for your photos, messages, and full archive
- ✅ WinZip: To unpack your ZIP file and organize your folders
- ✅ EaseUS Backup: For automatic long-term backup to external drives or cloud
Final Thoughts
Quitting Facebook doesn’t mean losing your memories. By downloading your archive first, you keep control over your digital past – and your privacy.
Whether you’re taking a break or deleting forever:
📥 Back up first, then decide.
🔘 Download Your Facebook Archive →
🔒 Open with WinZip and store with pCloud