I originally posted this back when Facebook first started rolling out the New Facebook layout. At that time, it was possible to switch back to the old Facebook layout. But that option has now been removed.
So I’ve replaced that old information and updated the information below with some workarounds to change how it’s displayed in your browser. But it’s no longer possible to completely revert back to the old Facebook layout because Facebook/Meta has removed that option.
Quick Summary
- Facebook has transitioned users to a new layout, removing the option to revert to the old classic layout.
- Previously, users could toggle between the new and old layouts, but this feature has been discontinued.
- Workaround: Use browser plugins that trick Facebook into displaying the old layout.
- Plugins include “Old Layout” and “Revert Site” for various browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
- Another alternative is “mbasic Facebook,” a simplified version designed for mobile devices with limited internet connectivity.
- Important Notes:
- These are temporary solutions; Facebook may make changes that render plugins ineffective.
- Plugins might not restore all old Facebook features.
- Ensure to review plugin permissions for security.
If you’re wondering whether Facebook changed its layout, yes, it did. It was quite some time ago now. And that’s why your Facebook might look different than you remember it when you access it through a computer browser.
As with most Facebook rollouts, it actually happened quite gradually. And for a while, it was possible to switch back and forth between New Facebook and Old Facebook (or Facebook Classic, as they called it).
But since I originally posted this, most Facebook users have been switched over to the new layout, and the built-in option to switch back that I originally described below has been removed. I’m not aware of any official way to go back to the old Facebook layout (which is now called Classic Facebook).
But there’s at least one unofficial alternative to switch back to the old Facebook layout. A method that many users have reported success with is to install a browser plugin that tricks Facebook into thinking you’re using an old, outdated version of Internet Explorer that Facebook doesn’t support (aka, spoofing the user agent). It’s not a perfect solution for a few reasons, but it might be useful if you’re aiming to go back to the look and feel of old Facebook, at least temporarily.
Table of Contents
Browser Plugins to Revert to Old Facebook Layout
There are plugins for your web browser that can do this, and I’ve listed some of the ones that users have reported success with below. They’re free, and there are versions for multiple different browsers.
Old Facebook Layout in Chrome / Brave Web Browser
- Revert Site
- Old Layout for Facebook
- Switch to Classic Design on Facebook
Old Facebook Layout in Firefox Web Browser
Old Facebook Layout in Microsoft Edge Web Browser
Another Alternative: mbasic Facebook
Mbasic Facebook is another alternative that gives you a stripped-down and simplified interface for Facebook. It doesn’t involve any browser plugins, and it’s an official Facebook product. It’s designed for mobile devices on slow or patchy internet connections, and not all features are available. But if you’re after a super stripped-down version of Facebook, it’s worth a look.
You can find it at the URL: https://mbasic.facebook.com/
Things Worth Knowing
There are some things worth noting with these, however:
- These are only a temporary fixes. Facebook might change settings on their end that would stop the plugins from working. UPDATE: In mid-2021, Facebook appeared to close many of the loopholes that these plugins were using, so your mileage might vary with them now.
- It’s likely that Facebook features might still be missing. The plugins can alter how the page is displayed, but they can’t restore features that Facebook might have disabled on their end.
- These can change how you see Facebook.com, but they don’t change how others view your page.
- Please review the permissions required for the plugins. I do not know the plugin authors, nor can I personally vouch for the security of the underlying code.
Facebook Account and Layout FAQs
How do I get the old Facebook layout back?
Facebook has migrated all its users to the new layout and removed the option to switch back to the old classic layout. You can navigate the new layout using the menu options, similar to the old layout. The search option allows you to find specific people, posts, or check-ins. There are some temporary workarounds, such as browser plugins, that can change the display you see when you access Facebook, but they do not fully return your account to the old Facebook layout.
Where can I find my old posts in the new Facebook layout?
You can find your old Facebook posts in the new layout by visiting your profile and scrolling down the timeline or by using the search option. In addition, you can view your activity log, which records all your actions on the platform including your old posts, comments, likes, and check-ins.
Why can’t I see the old Facebook layout anymore?
Facebook has transitioned all users to a new layout as part of its ongoing update and improvement efforts. The old layout was retired to make way for new features and an improved user experience. This decision was taken by Facebook’s parent company, Meta.
Does the new Facebook layout affect how my profile is displayed?
Yes, the new Facebook layout affects how your profile is displayed. Profile pictures are now located in the center of the page, and your full name and bio appear underneath. However, your old posts, photos, and check-ins remain intact and can be found in the same places as in the old layout, such as your timeline or activity log.
How does the new Facebook layout affect the algorithm and how content is displayed?
The new Facebook layout doesn’t significantly change the Facebook algorithm that determines what content is displayed to you. This means you should still see posts from the same friends and pages as before. However, features like ‘Facebook Stories’ and ‘Watch’ are more prominent in the new layout, which could influence the type of content you engage with.
Can I navigate the new Facebook layout in a similar way to the old Facebook layout?
Yes, you can. In the new layout, you will find menu options at the top of the page instead of on the left side. The ‘Home’, ‘Watch’, ‘Marketplace’, ‘Groups’, and ‘Gaming’ sections can be accessed from this menu. For individual account settings, click on the profile icon in the top right corner. Your activity log, friends list, and other personal sections can be found on your profile page.
