Why is Facebook saying upload error?

There are a few common reasons why you may see an “upload error” message when trying to post photos or videos on Facebook.

Image File Size Is Too Large

Facebook has limits on the size of images and videos that can be uploaded. For photos, the maximum file size is 25MB. For videos, the limit depends on the video resolution – HD videos can be up to 4GB, while lower resolution videos have smaller limits.

If your image or video exceeds the size limit, Facebook will prevent the upload and display an error message that states your file is too large. To fix this, you’ll need to use image editing software like Photoshop to reduce the file size. Options include:

• Lowering the image resolution
• Reducing the number of colors (color depth)
• Increasing JPEG compression to make the file smaller

For videos, you can use video editing software to export your clip in a lower resolution or bitrate to reduce the file size. Just be careful not to lose too much quality.

Connectivity Issues

Uploading large files requires a stable, high-speed internet connection. If you have a poor or intermittent connection, the upload may fail partway through and display an error. This is a common problem on mobile networks where signal strength can vary.

To troubleshoot, try uploading on a different network like Wi-Fi to see if that fixes the issue. Also check your connection speed to make sure you have enough bandwidth. If uploads consistently fail or are very slow, contact your internet service provider.

File Corruption or Damage

In rare cases, the image or video file itself may be corrupted or damaged, preventing Facebook from processing it properly. This can happen if the file was not created properly or has become altered in some way.

Opening the file on your computer first can help identify this issue. Corrupted files may not preview properly or open at all. Try re-exporting or creating a fresh version of the file to resolve corruption problems.

Media Type Not Supported

Facebook only supports certain file formats for images and videos. Uploading files in other formats will result in an error.

For images, Facebook supports JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP and WEBP formats. For videos, Facebook supports MP4, MOV and AVI formats.

If you’re getting an error uploading an unsupported file type, you’ll need to convert or re-save it to a compatible format using image/video editing tools before uploading to Facebook.

Account Restrictions or Bans

In some cases, specific Facebook accounts can be restricted from uploading photos or videos due to policy violations. Your account may be temporarily or permanently banned from posting multimedia content.

This is often seen if you have repeatedly posted inappropriate, offensive or copyrighted content. Check your account standing and any messages from Facebook for details on any restrictions.

Technical Problems on Facebook’s End

Like any website, Facebook can experience occasional technical glitches that affect certain features. Server errors during times of high traffic and maintenance downtime can sometimes disrupt multimedia uploads.

If the issue seems to be affecting many users, not just you, it may be a temporary problem on Facebook’s end. Check Downdetector to see if others are reporting Facebook problems as well.

In this case, try again later when the problem has hopefully been resolved. If the issue persists for more than a day, you may want to contact Facebook support for help troubleshooting.

How to Fix Common Upload Errors

Here are some step-by-step tips for resolving the most common Facebook upload errors:

Image File Too Large

1. Open the image in photo editing software like Photoshop.
2. Resize the image to lower the resolution. For photos, resize to under 2048 pixels on the longest edge.
3. Adjust the compression level. Increase JPEG compression to 70-80% or convert lossless PNGs to compressed JPEGs.
4. Save the resized image and re-upload to Facebook.

Video File Too Large

1. Open the video in editing software like Premiere Pro.
2. Export the video in a lower resolution like 720p or 1080p to reduce file size.
3. Adjust encode settings to target a lower bitrate like 8 Mbps.
4. Re-export the compressed video and upload to Facebook.

Corrupted or Damaged File

1. Check the file on your computer to see if it previews and opens properly.
2. If corrupted, delete the damaged file and find/create a new working version.
3. Before uploading again, run the file through a corruption checker to validate it is not corrupted.
4. Upload the known good, working version of the file instead.

Unsupported File Type

1. Identify and convert the file to a supported format (JPEG, PNG, GIF, MP4, MOV, etc).
2. Use online converters if needed to change file types.
3. Re-save or export the file in the proper format.
4. Upload the supported version to Facebook.

Account Restrictions

1. Check your Facebook account standing for any active restrictions.
2. If banned from uploading, you’ll need to appeal the ban with Facebook support.
3. Avoid posting inappropriate, offensive or copyrighted content that violates policy.
4. Upload only original content you have rights to post.

Preventing Upload Errors

Here are some tips to avoid upload failures when posting on Facebook:

• Resize large images before uploading – Keep photos under 25MB.
• Re-encode videos at lower resolutions/bitrates if needed.
• Use a stable, high-speed internet connection for large uploads.
• Convert files to supported formats like JPEG, PNG, MP4, etc.
• Check files for corruption before uploading.
• Review Facebook policies and avoid banned content.
• Upload original content you have the rights to share.

Getting Help with Upload Issues

If you continue having trouble uploading files to Facebook, here are some options for getting additional help:

• Search the Facebook Help Center for related troubleshooting tips.
• Report upload errors within Facebook to notify them of the problem.
• Ask friends if they know a solution based on their experience.
• Contact Facebook support via live chat or submit a technical support ticket.
• Post in Facebook user forums describing your error for community help.

With some targeted troubleshooting, most Facebook upload errors can be resolved. Key steps include checking file size, reformatting unsupported media, resolving corruption issues, and optimizing your upload environment. Reach out for help if you continue struggling to isolate and correct the cause of your uploading problem.

Conclusion

Facebook upload errors typically occur due to large or corrupt files, unsupported formats, account restrictions, or technical issues. Troubleshoot by adjusting image/video size and compression, converting to supported formats, inspecting files for damage, following Facebook policies, using stable connections, and seeking help if needed. With the right debugging approach, you can resolve most uploading problems and successfully share your photos and videos on Facebook.