How to Log Out of WhatsApp: Complete Guide for Every Device

iPhone & AndroidWhatsApp WebWhatsApp Business

Whether you need to switch to a new phone, protect your account, or simply log out of WhatsApp on an old device, this 2026 guide covers every method for logging out on iPhone, Android, and desktop.

How to Log Out of WhatsApp on iPhone

  1. Open WhatsApp on your iPhone
  2. Tap the Settings gear icon (bottom right)
  3. Scroll down and tap Log Out
  4. Confirm by tapping Log Out again

Note: If you don't see "Log Out," you may be using WhatsApp Web or have linked devices. Unlink those first.

How to Log Out of WhatsApp on Android

  1. Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots menu (top right)
  2. Select Settings
  3. Tap the down arrow next to your name
  4. Scroll down and tap Log Out
  5. Confirm your selection

How to Log Out of WhatsApp Web

There are two ways to log out of WhatsApp Web:

Method 1: From Your Phone

  1. Open WhatsApp on your phone
  2. Go to Settings > Linked Devices
  3. Tap on the device you want to log out of
  4. Select Log Out

Method 2: From Your Browser

  1. Go to web.whatsapp.com
  2. Click the three dots menu (top left)
  3. Select Log out

How to Log Out of WhatsApp Business

  1. Open WhatsApp Business
  2. Tap Settings (three dots or gear icon)
  3. Tap your business name at the top
  4. Scroll down and tap Log Out

How to Log Out of All Devices at Once

To log out of WhatsApp everywhere and secure your account:

  1. Open WhatsApp on your primary phone
  2. Go to Settings > Linked Devices
  3. Tap Log out of all devices
  4. Confirm the action

Security Tip

Always log out of WhatsApp on shared or public devices. If you can't access a device, use the "Log out of all devices" feature to remotely disconnect it from your account.

How to Switch WhatsApp Accounts

To switch between WhatsApp accounts without logging out completely:

  1. Ensure both phone numbers are active on the devices
  2. On your phone, open Settings > Linked Devices
  3. Link your additional device
  4. Use WhatsApp on either device with either account

Troubleshooting: Can't Log Out of WhatsApp

Issue: Log Out option is greyed out

Unlink all linked devices first from Settings > Linked Devices

Issue: WhatsApp Web won't log out

Clear your browser cache and cookies, then try again.

Issue: Logged out but still receiving messages

Messages may sync for up to 30 minutes after logging out. This is normal.

FAQ: WhatsApp Log Out Common Questions

Does logging out of WhatsApp delete my messages?

No. Your messages remain on your phone. However, any messages on WhatsApp Web/Desktop will be deleted when you log out.

Can I use WhatsApp on two phones with one account?

WhatsApp now supports multi-device, allowing you to use your account on up to 4 linked devices plus 1 phone simultaneously.

How do I delete my WhatsApp account instead?

Go to Settings > Account > Delete my account. This is permanent and cannot be undone.

Will I lose my WhatsApp status if I log out?

No. Your status updates and settings are tied to your account, not the device.