TikTok Not Working on PC? (Step-by-Step Fix Guide)

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If TikTok is not working on your PC, you’re not alone. Whether it shows a blank screen, fails to log in, or refuses to load videos, this guide will walk you through the easiest to most advanced solutions to get it working again.

How to Fix TikTok Not Working on PC

1. Check if TikTok is Down

Go to Downdetector and look for user outage reports. If TikTok is down, wait until service is restored.

2. Refresh the Page or Restart Your Browser

A temporary glitch might block the website.

  • Press Ctrl + R to reload TikTok
  • Or fully close and reopen your browser

3. Try Incognito or Private Mode

This helps rule out extension and cookie problems.

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Chrome or Edge) or Ctrl + Shift + P (Firefox)
  • Visit TikTok and try signing in or browsing

Use this if login errors keep repeating or the page won’t load.

4. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Outdated cache or stored cookies can prevent TikTok from displaying content.

  • Go to your browser’s Settings
  • Navigate to Privacy and Security → Clear browsing data
  • Select Cookies and Cached files, then clear them
  • Restart the browser and open TikTok again

This fix works for blank pages, freezing, or login redirects.

5. Disable Browser Extensions

Ad blockers, privacy tools, or VPN add-ons can block TikTok scripts.

  • Open your Extensions or Add-ons panel
  • Disable all extensions temporarily
  • Reload TikTok and see if it works

If TikTok loads properly, re-enable extensions one by one to identify the issue.

6. Use a Different Browser

TikTok may not work on older or unsupported browser versions.

  • Switch to Chrome, Firefox, or the new Microsoft Edge
  • Make sure your browser is up to date

If you’re using Windows 11 and want to completely reinstall or reset things, here’s a guide to remove TikTok from Windows 11 and start fresh.

7. Turn Off VPN or Proxy

VPNs or proxy services can cause region blocks or IP-based loading failures.

  • Disable any active VPN or proxy tools
  • Refresh TikTok in a regular browser window

This is especially important now that many users are trying to access TikTok after a potential US ban which could introduce new network limitations.

8. Flush Your DNS and Restart the Router

DNS conflicts or stale cache may block TikTok servers.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator
  • Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter
  • Restart your router and revisit TikTok

This often resolves connection problems specific to desktop or Wi-Fi.

9. Change to Google DNS

Your default DNS may block or delay access to TikTok.

  • Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center
  • Click on your active connection → Properties → IPv4
  • Select “Use the following DNS” and enter
    • Preferred: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate: 8.8.4.4
  • Save and restart your browser

If your issue is TikTok not loading content or streams, this can fix a TikTok network error caused by DNS routing.

10. Try the TikTok App from Microsoft Store

If nothing else works, use the native TikTok desktop app.

  • Open Microsoft Store
  • Search for “TikTok” and install
  • Open the app and log in normally

This bypasses browser issues entirely and is more stable for some users.

11. Update Your Windows Operating System

Older systems may not support TikTok’s latest browser features.

  • Press Windows + I → Update and Security
  • Click Check for Updates and install any available packages
  • Restart your computer

This ensures compatibility with TikTok’s modern web functions.


Conclusion

TikTok not working on PC can be due to browser glitches, DNS conflicts, VPNs, or server-side errors. Start with simple steps like using incognito mode or disabling extensions. If that fails, adjust your DNS, update Windows, or try the Microsoft Store app.

Also, keep in mind that TikTok comments not loading may indicate a broader bug, not just a local issue. Similar problems can occur on other devices too — for example, here’s how to fix TikTok not working on a Fire Tablet if you’re facing issues across multiple platforms.

If TikTok works on your phone but not on your PC, the root cause is likely your browser, network, or system configuration.


FAQs

Why does TikTok show a blank screen in my browser?

Corrupted cache or unsupported browser scripts are the usual cause. Clearing your browser cache should fix it.

Why can’t I log in to TikTok on my computer?

This is often due to blocked third-party cookies or browser session errors. Try using incognito mode or switching browsers.

Why do TikTok videos not play on desktop?

Your VPN or autoplay settings might be interfering. Disable VPN and change DNS if needed.

Is TikTok down or is it just my PC?

Check Downdetector to confirm if TikTok is experiencing widespread outages.

Is the TikTok desktop app better than the website?

Yes, the Microsoft Store version avoids many browser-based issues and offers smoother performance.

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