Uploading videos to TikTok is a core function of the platform, allowing users to share their creative content. However, sometimes TikTok users encounter issues where uploading videos from their computer to TikTok does not work. This can be frustrating as it prevents sharing videos as desired. There are several potential reasons why TikTok upload may not be working on a computer, ranging from application bugs to software conflicts. Understanding the possible causes can help identify solutions to get TikTok video uploads functioning again.
This article provides an overview of the common troubleshooting steps to try when experiencing problems with uploading videos from a computer to TikTok. Following systematic troubleshooting of compatibility issues, internet connectivity, browser settings and more can help pinpoint what is causing the upload failure. With the right fixes applied, users can resume sharing their videos seamlessly on TikTok.
Verify Latest Version
One potential reason TikTok upload might not be working is because your TikTok app is outdated. TikTok frequently releases new versions of the app with bug fixes and new features. It’s important to keep the app updated on your computer to ensure compatibility with TikTok’s servers.
To check for app updates on a Windows computer, open the Microsoft Store app and click on the menu button in the upper left. Select “Downloads and updates” and click “Get updates.” The store will check for any available TikTok updates and allow you to install them.
On a Mac, open the App Store app and click on the Updates tab. If any updates are available for TikTok they will appear here. Click “Update” to install the latest version.
Making sure you have upgraded to the latest TikTok app version can potentially resolve upload issues if they were caused by software bugs in an outdated release. Keeping apps updated in general is also good device maintenance to ensure compatibility and performance.
Check System Requirements
Most issues with TikTok being unable to upload videos on a computer can be traced back to not meeting the minimum system requirements. TikTok needs a relatively modern operating system and sufficient computing power to function properly.
For Windows computers, TikTok recommends Windows 10 or newer. For Macs, the latest macOS versions like Big Sur, Monterey, and Ventura are required. Using an outdated operating system like Windows 7 or 8 can lead to upload failures.
In terms of specs, having at least 8GB of RAM is highly recommended by TikTok. The processor should be fairly recent as well – Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 and up. An integrated graphics card is usually sufficient unless working with high resolution source videos.
Having the latest browser is also important. TikTok works best on the current versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Very old browsers may not be fully compatible with TikTok’s platform.
Checking your system meets or exceeds these requirements can help avoid upload issues. If your PC is underpowered or outdated, it may struggle to smoothly upload videos to TikTok. Upgrading components may be necessary to properly use TikTok’s online tools.[1][2]
Clear Browser Cache
Clearing your browser’s cache can often resolve upload issues on sites like TikTok. Cache files store website data locally on your device to help pages load faster, but sometimes this cached data can get outdated or corrupted. Here’s how to clear the cache in the most popular browsers:
Chrome: Open Chrome and click the three vertical dots in the top right corner > Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear browsing data. Make sure both “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data” are selected. Click Clear data.
Firefox: Click the three horizontal lines in the top right corner > Options > Privacy & Security > Scroll down to Cookies and Site Data > Click Clear Data. Check all boxes then click Clear.
Safari: Click Safari > Clear History and Website Data. Select the desired time range, make sure both “Cookies and other website data” and “Caches” are checked. Click Clear History and Data.
Clearing the browser cache forces the browser to delete its locally stored website files and re-download fresh data from the site. Often this resolves any corrupt files that may be causing upload issues on sites like TikTok and Facebook. Just keep in mind, you’ll have to log back into any sites you were previously logged into [1].
Check Internet Connection
One of the most common reasons TikTok uploads may fail is due to a poor or unstable internet connection. Uploading videos requires a reasonably fast and consistent internet speed. According to HighSpeedInternet.com, you generally need upload speeds of at least 10-100Mbps for smooth video uploads on social media.
First, try switching from a wireless to a wired ethernet connection if possible, as this will provide the fastest and most reliable speeds. Wireless connections can fluctuate or get interrupted, which may disrupt an upload.
Next, run an internet speed test using a tool like Speedtest.net to check your actual upload and download speeds. Compare your results to TikTok’s recommended minimum speeds. If your speeds fall below the optimal range, contact your ISP to troubleshoot your internet connection.
Finally, try temporarily disabling other bandwidth-hogging devices or apps that may be slowing your connection during uploads. Close any other programs using significant bandwidth in the background as well.
With a strong, stable wired internet connection and minimal network congestion, TikTok uploads from a computer should succeed without issues.
Restart Computer
One of the simplest solutions is to restart your computer. This performs a full reboot which can clear up any temporary issues that may be preventing TikTok from uploading properly. Often a restart will reset things and get TikTok working again.
According to TikTok experts, restarting your PC is one of the first troubleshooting steps to try if TikTok is not working (Source). Restarting refreshes the computer’s memory and reloads processes and applications. It essentially gives the computer a fresh start, which can resolve problems like TikTok upload failures.
To restart your computer, save any open files and close all programs. Then select the Start menu and choose Restart. Alternatively, you can hold the Shift key while clicking the Power icon and select Restart. After the computer reboots, try uploading to TikTok again. If the issue persists, move on to other troubleshooting methods. But in many cases, a simple restart is all that’s needed.
Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can sometimes cause issues with uploading videos to TikTok. Graphics drivers act as the software interface between your operating system and graphics card. When they become outdated, compatibility problems may arise with certain apps and programs.
Go to the website of your graphics card manufacturer such as NVIDIA or AMD to download the latest drivers. Make sure to carefully follow the installation instructions. After updating, restart your computer and try uploading to TikTok again. Many users have reported this simple fix got TikTok uploading working again (1). Updating graphics drivers periodically is a good maintenance habit to avoid technical issues.
Check Host File
The host file is used to map hostnames to IP addresses and can be used to block access to certain websites like TikTok. If you have previously blocked TikTok by editing the host file, you may need to correct any blocked TikTok domains.
To check your host file, open the file located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts in a text editor. Look for any lines containing “tiktok” and remove them. For example, you may see lines like:
127.0.0.1 tiktok.com
127.0.0.1 www.tiktok.com
After removing any blocked TikTok domains, save the hosts file and restart your computer. This should allow access to TikTok again. If you are still unable to upload videos, there may be a different issue causing the problem.
Try Incognito Mode
One potential reason TikTok upload is not working could be due to a browser issue. Incognito mode isolates the browser by not saving cookies, site data, and history. This can help determine if the browser itself is causing an issue with uploading.
According to TikTok user @filmomentsofficial, “Incognito mode is a great way to browse the web without leaving a trace on your device.” The TikTok video explains how incognito mode works and why it may fix browser-related upload problems.
To try incognito mode:
- Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
- Find the incognito/private browsing option in your browser’s menu
- A new incognito browser window will open
- Go to TikTok.com and try uploading a video
If TikTok upload works in incognito mode, then there may be an issue with your browser’s cache, cookies or site data interfering. Clearing this data may resolve the problem.
However, if upload still does not work in incognito mode, then the issue is likely not browser-related. Further troubleshooting would be required.
Contact TikTok Support
If all else fails, it’s best to reach out directly to TikTok for help. TikTok has an official support channel where you can report upload issues or other problems you may be experiencing with the app. This should be the last resort after trying all the troubleshooting tips above.
To contact TikTok support:
- Open the TikTok app and tap on your Profile icon
- Tap the 3-line menu icon in the top right corner
- Choose “Report a Problem” and select the issue you are facing
- Follow the prompts to send a report to TikTok
You can also try reaching out to TikTok support directly via email at [email protected]. Be sure to include details on the issue you’re experiencing, your device type, TikTok version, and screenshots if possible.
TikTok’s support team aims to respond within 1-2 business days. They should be able to provide customized troubleshooting or determine if there are any bugs causing upload failures.
