How Do I Download a Copy of My Facebook Data?

This article discusses how to download a copy of your Facebook data. The specific steps are shared to enable Facebook users to download data. Options for the different formats available for Facebook data downloads are also mentioned in this article.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Dec 9, 2022

How Do I Download a Copy of My Facebook Data?

There are many reasons you might want a copy of your Facebook data. Maybe you are searching for something specific or perhaps you just want to ensure that you have your data backed up. Whatever reason you have for wanting your Facebook data, you might have questions about how to download it. Getting answers to your questions is as easy as contacting Facebook.

Decide Exactly What You Want to Download

You don't have to download all your Facebook data at once if you don't want to. You can pick and choose what to download. Just choose what you want when you make the actual request. Perhaps you only want data from a certain time period or you might just want data from a certain category. Reach out to Facebook to get the help you need to decide what data to download.

Determine the Format for Your Downloaded Data

Do you want to view your downloaded data as HTML? You might if your intention is to have an easy-to-read format. If this is the choice you make, you will receive a zip file, which will make it easy for you to read what is included. Maybe you want to download your data in a format that is easy to transfer. If so, you should request your data as JSON. This makes it easy for you to upload your transferred data. Reach out to Facebook for answers to your questions about the data format that is best for you.

Steps to Take to Download a Copy of Your Facebook Data

  1. Click on the arrow at the top right of your Facebook account to get to Settings and Privacy.
  2. Once you are at Settings and Privacy, click Settings.
  3. Find the section marked Your Facebook Information. This will be located in the left-hand column.
  4. Look for Download Your Information. Next to that, click View.
  5. There are boxes on the right that when you click on them, allow you to add or remove data requests.
  6. There are other options available. You can choose the format and quality of your download. You will also be asked to select a date range unless you want to download all of your data.
  7. When you see Create File, simply click on it. This is how you confirm your request for a download.
  8. Your request will appear in the Available Copies section of the Download Your Information tool. It will appear as Pending.
  9. Now wait. Facebook will alert you with a notification when your download is ready. Be aware that it might take several days until you are notified.
  10. After you've been notified, go back to Available Copies and click Download. Have your password ready because you will be asked to enter it again at this point.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.
How Do I Download a Copy of My Facebook Data?

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