If you’re trying to unblock users on Instagram, but aren’t sure how to do it using your laptop, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explain the steps of unblocking someone on Instagram using a laptop. The instructions are simple and straightforward, making it easy to follow. With the right instructions and guidance, unblocking Instagram contacts can be done in no time. Let’s jump right into the steps for unblocking users on Instagram with a laptop.
1. What is Blocking & Unblocking on Instagram?
Blocking and unblocking someone on Instagram can be done to limit someone’s ability to interact with you. When you block someone on Instagram:
- Their profile will be removed from follower count,
- Their comments will be hidden, and
- They won’t be able to see your posts and stories.
Anyone you’ve blocked won’t be notified when you block them, and if they mention you or try to search for your account in Instagram’s search bar, they won’t be able to find your profile. You can unblock someone at any time, if you want to be able to interact with them again.
If someone you’ve blocked tries to view your profile, they may receive a message that says “you can’t view this page” or “page not found”. Note that if your profile is public, people you’ve blocked may still be able see your posts by searching for them. To prevent this, you may want to consider making your profile private.
2. How to Unblock an Instagram User on a Laptop
Accidentally blocked someone, or had a misunderstanding with a follower? No worries! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to unblock someone on Instagram, which is the same process regardless of whether you’re using a laptop, phone, or tablet:
1. Log in to your Instagram account. Head to instagram.com and enter your account information.
2. Go to your Profile. This is the little person-shaped icon at the bottom-right corner of your screen.
3. Tap or click the three bars at the top-right of the screen. This will open up a secondary menu that sits next to your profile picture and bio.
4. Go to Settings. It’s the far-right icon. If you’re using a laptop, you may need to scroll down the page to find it.
5. Go to Privacy & Security. Find this option in the left sidebar.
6. Click Blocked Accounts. This shows you a list of profiles you have blocked.
7. Choose an account. Choose the account you’d like to unblock.
8. Tap or click Unblock. This will open up a pop-up box asking you to confirm you want to unblock the contact. Press Unblock to finalise the process. The person you unblocked will now be able to view your profile, send you messages, and view your posts.
3. Alternatives to Unblocking a User on Instagram
- Allow ‘Muting’: Muting or silencing a user on Instagram is an easy way to stop seeing posts from that user without actually blocking them. If you do not wish to be bombarded with posts from a certain user, muting is a good option. All you need to do is go to the user’s profile, click the three dots located on the right-hand side of their bio and select ‘Mute Posts’.
- Manage ‘Comments’: Unblocking a user does not prevent them from commenting on your posts, which can be an issue. To avoid this, you can manage comments by going to the Settings, then into ‘Privacy’, and selecting ‘Comments’. From here, you can disable comments or even restrict certain users from commenting on all your posts.
- Report Offensive Posts: If a user’s posts are not just annoying but offensive, do not hesitate to report them! Depending on the type of post, you can report it for bullying, nudity, hate speech or suicide. All you need to do is click the three dots located above their post, click ‘More’ and then ‘Report’.
4. Key Takeaways & Tips for Unblocking Users on Instagram
Block users judiciously: It is always best to be thoughtful and judicious while blocking users on Instagram. Instances that merit a block include online bullying, receiving unsolicited sexual advances, and any other behavior that makes you feel unsafe. Don’t hesitate to block further if the user becomes confrontational after being blocked.
Watch out for alternative accounts: Blocked users could potentially create alternative accounts to harass or annoy you. Be prepared for this and use the reporting feature for any inappropriate activity from alternative accounts. Additionally, adjust your privacy settings and never share any personal information with strangers.
1-way blocking:
When an account is blocked, the user is unable to view your profile, photos, and stories. However, you can still view the user’s profile, photos, and stories while they are blocked. Therefore, if you are blocked, you can still view their profile under certain circumstances.
- The user must have made the profile public.
- You must be logged into an Instagram account.
- The account must not have been deleted or deactivated.
- You cannot comment on their photos or stories.
5. Conclusion: Unblocking Users on Instagram with a Laptop
Updating Your Privacy Settings
The most effective way to unblock users on Instagram with a laptop is to change your account’s privacy setting. This ensures no one can view your posts except for users that you have given permission to view them. To update your privacy settings, go to “Settings” and select “Privacy and Security.” Then choose the option for “Blocked Accounts” and use the “Unblock” button under each user’s name to automatically unblock them.
Blocking Invites or Connections
You can also limit invites or connections sent to users that you have previously blocked. To do this, go to “Settings” and select “Account Privacy.” Here you can choose the “Block Invites” option and the “Block Request from Someone” option to prevent users from connecting with you. You can also limit the visibility of your profile to “Friends” or “No One” to hide your profile from everyone else.
Unblocking Someone Directly
The best way to unblock users on Instagram with a laptop is to do it directly. To do this, browse to the user’s profile page and click the “Unblock” button. This instantly unblocks the user and you can now view their posts and send them messages. To prevent them from messaging or viewing your profile again, make sure to change your privacy settings.
Overall, unblocking users on Instagram with a laptop is possible in a few simple steps. With the instructions in this article, the process should be clear and straightforward. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to open up your Instagram connections again and make sure you’re staying connected with the people you care about.
