New Account Sign Up Instagram Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to create a new Instagram account step-by-step on mobile or desktop, choose the right profile type, and optimize settings for security and engagement.

New Account Sign Up Instagram Step-by-Step Guide
Instagram has become one of the most influential social media platforms worldwide, serving as a hub for personal connections, creative storytelling, and brand marketing. Whether you’re looking to share daily moments, grow an audience, or promote a business, getting started the right way is essential. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to complete the new account sign up Instagram process on both mobile and desktop, and help you optimize your profile from the beginning for maximum engagement.

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Understanding Instagram Account Types
Before you create your account, it’s important to choose the right profile type because each offers different tools and capabilities:
- Personal Account – Ideal for everyday sharing with friends and family.
- Creator Account – Designed for influencers, artists, and public figures, with advanced content and audience analytics.
- Business Account – Tailored for brands and entrepreneurs, offering advertising options, insights, and direct contact buttons.
Selecting correctly ensures you start with features suited to your goals; you can also switch types later from the app’s settings.
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Preparing Required Information
A smooth sign-up process starts with being ready. Gather these items before you begin:
- Email address (valid and accessible)
- Phone number (used for verification and recovery)
- Secure password (combination of letters, numbers, symbols)
- Unique username (your public identity on Instagram)
Pro Tip: Use a password manager to create and store strong credentials.
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Download Instagram App or Use Desktop Version
You can register in two ways:
- Mobile App – Download from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Desktop Website – Visit instagram.com.

Although mobile offers more features, desktop sign-up can be simpler for business profiles managed primarily from a computer.
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Step-by-Step Mobile Sign Up Process
Follow these steps to create your account using the mobile app:
- Open the Instagram app.
- Tap Sign Up.
- Enter your email or phone number.
- Tap Next and pass verification if prompted.
- Provide your full name and set a password.
- Choose your username (or select suggested options).
- Tap Next.
- Add a profile picture (optional initially).
- Complete your profile setup or skip directly to your home feed.
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Step-by-Step Desktop Sign Up Process
To sign up through your browser:
- Visit instagram.com.
- Click Sign up under the login form.
- Enter your mobile number or email, full name, username, and password.
- Click Sign up and complete the captcha if asked.
- Verify using the code sent via email or phone.
- Log in and finish your profile setup.
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Selecting a Unique and Memorable Username
Your username shapes your Instagram identity. Keep these points in mind:
- Make it short, readable, and easy to remember.
- Avoid excessive numbers unless meaningful.
- Include keywords if promoting a brand or niche.
- Verify availability — no duplicates are allowed.
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Setting a Strong Password and Activating Two-Factor Authentication
Account protection is vital:
- Use 12+ characters, blending upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid dictionary words or simple sequences.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) in Settings > Security.
- Opt for authentication apps like Google Authenticator for greater security than SMS alone.
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Adding Profile Picture and Bio
A complete profile increases credibility and visibility:
- Select a clear, high-quality image of yourself or your brand logo.
- Craft a brief, appealing bio that includes relevant keywords.
- Add a website or social media link (Creator/Business accounts).

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Customizing Privacy Settings and Content Preferences
Instagram privacy controls allow you to manage audience access:
- Switch account to Private to approve followers manually.
- Configure Story sharing, comment controls, and tag permissions.
- Access these options via Settings > Privacy.
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Connecting to Contacts, Facebook, or Phone
During sign-up, consider linking:
- Facebook account for finding friends and cross-posting.
- Phone contacts to locate people you already know.
- Accept suggestions to follow relevant accounts based on your interests.
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First Post Setup – Filters, Captions, Hashtags
Your inaugural post creates a first impression:
- Tap +, select a photo/video.
- Apply filters or adjust edit settings.
- Write an engaging caption.
- Add hashtags for discoverability (e.g., #NewOnInstagram).
- Tag people or locations before publishing.
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Tips for Account Verification and Security Maintenance
For eligible users and brands:
- Request verification via Settings > Account > Request Verification.
- Keep email/phone recovery data updated.
- Check active logins in Security > Login Activity regularly.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid During Sign Up
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Picking a username too similar to others.
- Using a weak, guessable password.
- Skipping privacy setup.
- Neglecting verification, which may cause future lockouts.
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Troubleshooting Sign Up Issues
Below is a quick reference for common issues and solutions:
Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
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Verification email not received | Spam folder, incorrect email | Check spam, re-enter email, resend confirmation |
Phone number already in use | Associated with another account | Recover old account or use different number |
Username unavailable | Already taken by another user | Modify with underscores or alternate keywords |
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Best Practices for Engagement After Sign Up
After completing the new account sign up Instagram process, focus on building your presence:
- Maintain a consistent posting schedule (e.g., 3–4 posts per week).
- Engage actively by liking, commenting, and responding to messages.
- Use diverse content formats: Stories, Reels, Live sessions.
- Monitor performance with Instagram Insights (Creator/Business accounts).
- Collaborate with relevant accounts to expand reach.
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Summary and Next Steps
By following this detailed new account sign up Instagram guide, you can establish a secure, well-optimized profile from the outset. Take advantage of all available features, craft an appealing visual identity, and engage consistently to grow your network.
Ready to start your Instagram journey? Sign up today, apply these tips, and watch your community thrive.