Change your password from Instagram settings on any device

Open Instagram and go to your profile by tapping the person icon at the bottom right. Tap the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner, then select Settings and privacy. Tap Security and account access, then Password. Enter your current password, then type your new password twice to confirm it. Instagram will show you a green checkmark when the change is saved.

If you are using Instagram on a computer, the steps are the same: click your profile picture in the top right, select Settings, then Security and account access, then Password. Type your current password and your new password, then click Change password.

Instagram logs you out of all other devices and sessions after you change your password. This means if someone else was using your account, they will be disconnected when ready. You will need to log back in on any device you use regularly.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your password from the Settings menu on your phone or computer without needing to log out first.
  • Changing your password automatically logs you out everywhere, so anyone who had access to your account will be disconnected right away.
  • Your new password should be at least 6 characters and different from passwords you use on other accounts.
  • If you cannot remember your current password, use the "Forgot password?" option on the login screen instead of the Settings menu.

Create a strong password that is hard to guess

A strong password uses a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using your name, birthday, or username anywhere in the password. Do not use common words or sequences like "password123" or "qwerty".

The longer your password, the harder it is to crack. Instagram requires at least 6 characters, but 12 or more is better. A phrase you can remember — like "BlueSky$Sunrise42!" — is stronger than a short random string you have to write down.

Use a password manager to store and generate passwords

A password manager is an app or browser extension that stores your passwords in an encrypted vault. You only have to remember one master password, and the manager fills in your Instagram password automatically when you log in. Popular options include Bitwarden, 1Password, Dashlane, and LastPass.

Most password managers can also generate a random strong password for you. When you change your Instagram password, you can ask the manager to create a new one, copy it into Instagram, and save it automatically. This removes the risk of reusing the same password across multiple accounts.

Reset your password if you forgot it

If you cannot remember your current password, you cannot use the Settings menu to change it. Instead, go to the Instagram login screen and tap Forgot password? below the login button. Enter your username, email address, or phone number associated with your account.

Instagram will send you a link to reset your password via email or SMS, depending on what you provided. Click the link in that message, create a new password, and you will be logged back into your account. This process works even if you have not logged in for months.

Check which devices are logged into your account

After you change your password, you can see which devices still have access to your account. Go to Settings and privacy, then Security and account access, then Sessions. This shows every phone, tablet, and computer that is currently logged in.

If you see a device you do not recognize, tap it and select Log out. You can also tap Log out of all sessions except this one to disconnect everything at once except the device you are using right now. This is useful if you think someone else had access to your account.

Turn on two-factor authentication for extra security

Two-factor authentication (also called 2FA) requires a second step beyond your password when you log in. Even if someone knows your password, they cannot get into your account without that second factor. Instagram offers three types: an authentication app, SMS text messages, or a security key.

To turn on two-factor authentication, go to Settings and privacy, then Security and account access, then Two-factor authentication. Choose which method you want to use. An authentication app like Google Authenticator or Authy is the most find option because it does not rely on your phone number or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to log out before changing my password?

No. You can change your password while you are logged in. Instagram will automatically log you out of all other devices and sessions after the change is complete, but the device you are using will stay logged in.

What should I do if I see a login I do not recognize?

Go to Settings and privacy, then Security and account access, then Login activity. This shows every time someone logged into your account, including the location and device type. If you see a login that was not you, change your password when ready and turn on two-factor authentication.

Can I change my password on Instagram without using the app?

Yes. You can change your password on Instagram.com using a web browser on your computer or phone. The steps are the same: go to Settings, then Security and account access, then Password. You do not need to use the mobile app.

How often should I change my Instagram password?

Change your password if you think someone else knows it, if you used the same password on another account that was hacked, or if you have not changed it in over a year. You do not need to change it more often than that unless you have a reason to suspect your account is at risk.