If you find yourself constantly having to re-verify and log back into WhatsApp Web, it can be really frustrating. There are a few common reasons why this happens and some steps you can take to avoid it.
You Have Not Linked a Device
WhatsApp Web requires you to link your account to a mobile device in order to use it. If you have not gone through this linking process at least once, you will not be able to stay logged into WhatsApp Web.
To link a device:
- Open WhatsApp on your mobile device
- Go to Menu > WhatsApp Web
- Point your mobile device camera at the QR code on the WhatsApp Web screen
- Confirm the linking process on your mobile
Once linked, you should be able to use WhatsApp Web without needing to reverify each time. However, there are some other reasons why you may still get logged out periodically.
Your Mobile Device’s Connection
WhatsApp Web relies on your mobile device to stay connected. So if your mobile device goes offline, loses internet connectivity, or has other connection issues, it can cause you to be logged out of the web app.
Some things that can trigger this include:
- Switching your mobile data on and off
- Going in and out of airplane mode
- Losing WiFi connectivity on your mobile
- Your phone dying or turning off
Basically any interruption in connectivity between WhatsApp on your mobile and WhatsApp Web can cause you to be logged out. Make sure your mobile has a strong, steady connection for the best experience.
Timing Out Due to Inactivity
If WhatsApp Web remains idle and inactive for a while, you may be automatically logged out as a security measure. This is to prevent other people from accessing your account if you leave WhatsApp Web open.
The timeout period seems to be around 5-10 minutes of inactivity. So if you step away for a while, you’ll likely need to log back in.
Logging In on Another Device
You can only be logged into one device on WhatsApp Web at a time. So if you log into another phone or computer, it will automatically log you out of the previous session.
WhatsApp detects when your account is in use on multiple devices and logs out the old sessions as a security precaution. Make sure to fully log out if you are switching devices.
Too Many Devices Linked
You can link up to 4 devices to one WhatsApp account. If you go over this limit, it will start removing the oldest linked devices.
So if you continually add new phones or computers without unlinking old ones, you may eventually reach the 4 device limit and get logged out of the oldest links.
Corrupt Cookies or Site Data
Some WhatsApp Web login issues can come down to browser problems on your computer. Corrupt cookies, cached site data, or other browser glitches can sometimes interfere with staying logged in.
Try the following fixes:
- Clear your browser cookies and site data for web.whatsapp.com
- Try logging in with a different browser
- Use incognito/private browsing mode
If clearing the browser data helps, then you know the issue was on your computer’s side. But if it doesn’t help, then the problem lies with your mobile app or connection.
Web Client Out of Date
Make sure you are running the latest version of WhatsApp Web. Outdated clients may have compatibility issues leading to login problems.
On Chrome, access chrome://settings/help and make sure WhatsApp Web is up-to-date. Try manually refreshing the page if an update is available.
Account Security Change
If you recently changed your WhatsApp security keys or reset your mobile device, it can also lead to being logged out of the web app.
Essentially anything that modifies your account’s linked devices will require re-verifying WhatsApp Web. This includes:
- Changing your mobile number
- Reinstalling WhatsApp
- Restoring your mobile device from a backup
- Modifying your two-step verification settings
Banned or Restricted Account
In rare cases, constantly being logged out of WhatsApp Web may indicate your account is banned or restricted. This can happen if you violate WhatsApp’s terms of service.
Some signs your account is banned:
- Unable to verify your number
- Regularly logged out of the app itself
- Cannot restore your chat history
If you think your account has been banned, you will need to contact WhatsApp support to resolve it.
How to Avoid Getting Logged Out
Here are some tips to avoid frequently getting logged out of WhatsApp Web:
- Make sure your mobile has a stable internet connection
- Don’t let your mobile device turn off, die, or lose service
- Log out properly when switching devices
- Don’t stay idle for too long during a WhatsApp Web session
- Limit your linked devices to 4 or less
- Clear your browser data and make sure your client is up-to-date
Following these best practices will minimize disruptions and account conflicts that cause you to be logged out.
How to Log Back In
If you do get logged out unexpectedly, logging back in is easy. Just:
- Open web.whatsapp.com in your browser
- Click “Log In” on the QR code splash screen
- Open WhatsApp on your mobile and go to Menu > WhatsApp Web
- Point your camera at the QR code to link your mobile again
This quick re-verification lets you instantly pick up right where you left off in your WhatsApp Web session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does WhatsApp Web keep logging me out?
The most common reasons are losing connectivity on your linked mobile device, timing out after being idle too long, switching between devices, or having too many devices linked to your account.
Can I stay permanently logged into WhatsApp Web?
No, you cannot stay permanently logged into WhatsApp Web indefinitely. You will need to periodically reverify your mobile device to refresh the session due to timeouts and connectivity changes.
Is there a time limit for WhatsApp Web sessions?
While not officially confirmed, WhatsApp Web appears to log out users after 5-10 minutes of inactivity. This is likely a security measure to prevent unauthorized access.
Can I use WhatsApp Web without my phone?
No, you need to have your mobile phone connected and linked to use WhatsApp Web. The web platform relies on your phone’s internet connection and WhatsApp account.
How many devices can use WhatsApp Web at once?
Each WhatsApp account can have up to 4 linked devices, including both mobile and web sessions. You will be automatically logged out of old sessions when adding new ones past this limit.
Conclusion
Getting constantly logged out of WhatsApp Web can be really frustrating, but is usually caused by a connectivity or account issue. The key is making sure your mobile device stays linked and verifying your session periodically.
With strong connectivity and proper login protocols, you should be able to minimize disruptions and stay logged into WhatsApp Web for as long as you need.
If problems persist even after troubleshooting, you may need to contact WhatsApp support to resolve any account or device linking issues.
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| No linked device | Link your mobile device through the QR code process |
| Mobile connection issues | Ensure your mobile has a strong, steady connection |
| Idle timeout | Stay active in your WhatsApp Web session |
| Logging in on another device | Properly log out before switching devices |
| Too many linked devices | Unlink old devices to get below the 4 device limit |
| Corrupt browser data | Clear cookies and site data for WhatsApp Web |
| Outdated client | Update to the latest WhatsApp Web version |
| Security changes | Reverify devices after making account changes |
| Banned account | Contact WhatsApp support |