Alex Ruben
How To Resolve Instagram Sticker Issues and Network Errors in Stories
If you’re running into that annoying “An unknown network error has occurred” message when trying to use stickers on your Instagram stories, you’re definitely not the only one. It’s kind of weird, but sometimes the problem is just a simple fix—other times, it drags on longer than it should. This guide walks through some tried and true methods that might push that sticker button back to life on Android or iOS. Because of course, Instagram has to make it harder than necessary.
Step 1: Make sure the Instagram app is updated
Honestly, this is the easiest fix for probably 80% of issues. Why? Because app developers are always rolling out bug fixes that could sort out whatever glitch is causing your sticker woes. So, check for updates before trying anything fancy:
- Open the Google Play Store on Android or the App Store on iPhone.
- Type “Instagram” into the search bar.
- If it shows an Update button, tap it. Sometimes, the app can silently lag behind, and new versions have fixes for network bugs or sticker bugs.
Expect to see a smoother, more stable experience afterward. Not sure why it works, but on one setup it was a quick update, on another, still no fix until a full reinstall. Small wins, right?
Step 2: Clear Instagram’s cache (Android only, usually)
This is kind of a sneaky one. Old cached data can cause all sorts of weirdness. Clearing cache resets that temp data that may be corrupted or just cluttered. (iOS doesn’t really let you do this manually, so skip if you’re on iPhone.)
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps or Application Manager.
- Find and tap on Instagram.
- Hit Storage & cache (or just Storage) and then tap Clear Cache.
This can help make the app run more smoothly and might fix those glitches with stickers not showing up. On some phones, this fails the first time, then works after rebooting—because of course Windows has to complicate things.
Step 3: Restart your device
Kind of obvious, but sometimes just turning it off and on again resets network stuff or temporary app bugs. Hold down that power button, pick Restart (or Reboot) and wait a few seconds before firing it back up. Usually, you’ll see a system refresh, which might make the sticker feature work again when you open Instagram. On some devices, this fix needs a few tries or a full shutdown, not just restart. Weird, but true.
Step 4: Toggle Airplane Mode
Connectivity issues are the usual villain here, whether it’s Wi-Fi or mobile data. Flipping airplane mode tricks your device into resetting network connections:
- Swipe down from the top to access Quick Settings (or swipe up from bottom on older devices).
- Tap on the Airplane Mode icon to enable it.
- Wait around 10 seconds, then tap it off again.
It’s funny how sometimes the network gets stuck, and toggling airplane mode clears that glitch. Expect to see at least better connection status afterwards. If that didn’t help, here’s what might:
Extra tips & common issues
Still no luck? Maybe try these:
- Make sure your internet connection is stable—switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data if needed.
- Check if your device has system updates pending (Settings > Software Update). Because tech, right?
- Reinstall the Instagram app—delete it completely from your device, then grab it fresh from the stores.
Sometimes, it’s just a server-side problem from Instagram, but these steps cover most of the usual suspects. Also, on some devices, a quick cache wipe or reinstall seems to fix the problem for good, until some new bug pops up.
Conclusion
If everything above didn’t do the trick, well, it might be an Instagram server issue or a bug that needs a developer fix. But most of the time, keeping the app updated, clearing cache, and resetting your network connection does the job. Just something that worked on multiple machines, so hopefully, it does the same for yours. Fingers crossed this helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if my Instagram app won’t update?
If updates won’t download, check your internet connection and free storage. Sometimes, restarting the device or logging out and back in clears weird EU causes. Reinstalling helps if all else fails.
2. How can I contact Instagram support?
Open Instagram, go to Settings > Help > Report a Problem. It’s clunky, but that’s usually the best route for bug reports.
3. Why do I keep getting network errors on Instagram?
Could be your connection quality, server issues, or local bugs. Switching networks, toggling airplane mode, or waiting a bit can sometimes help in these cases.