How to Check If a Service Is Down (Or If It's Just You)

We've all been there - a website won't load or an app keeps crashing, and you're left wondering: is it down for everyone, or just me?

Step 1: Check Outage.com

The fastest way to confirm an outage is to check Outage.com. We aggregate real-time reports from users worldwide, so you'll know within seconds if others are experiencing the same issue.

Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection

Before assuming the service is down:

• Try loading other websites
• Check if other devices on your network work
• Restart your router if needed

Step 3: Try Different Access Methods

• Switch from WiFi to mobile data
• Try a different browser
• Use a VPN to rule out regional issues
• Try the mobile app if you're on desktop (or vice versa)

Step 4: Check Social Media

Search Twitter/X for the service name + "down" to see real-time reports from other users. Official company accounts often post updates during outages.

Step 5: Check the Official Status Page

Many services have official status pages:

• AWS: status.aws.amazon.com
• Google: status.cloud.google.com
• Microsoft: status.office.com

However, these can be slow to update during major incidents.

When It's Just You

If Outage.com shows the service is operational but you still can't access it:

1. Clear your browser cache and cookies

2. Flush your DNS cache (run ipconfig /flushdns on Windows or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache on Mac)

3. Try incognito/private browsing mode

4. Check if your IP might be blocked (especially after failed login attempts)

5. Contact the service's support

Pro Tips

• Bookmark Outage.com for quick access during suspected outages
• Follow critical services on social media for announcements
• Set up alerts for services your business depends on