01
Minimal test
New conversation, no file, default model, and a ten-word question.
DeepSeek not working: isolate the cause in five minutes
DeepSeek not working
Start with the smallest possible test
A blank page, stalled response, and rejected file have different causes. Open a new chat, send one short sentence, and record the time and exact message.
01Minimal test
02One change at a time
03Save context
02
One change at a time
Change network, browser, or model separately so the result teaches you something.
03
Save context
Copy the prompt and useful facts before refreshing or leaving the page.
Symptoms
Match the symptom to the right test
Do not clear all browser data after the first failure. Begin with reversible checks that provide a clear signal.
The page does not load
Check another page, then network, script blockers, and a private window. Note whether only this domain fails.
The answer stalls
Start a new chat with a short request. If it works, shorten context or remove the file from the original conversation.
Quota or model rejected
Read the limit message, return to the default free model, and check account status.
Check order
Network, session, model, prompt, then file
This order moves from general to specific. Stop when the minimal test reproduces the issue and keep useful support details.
Network
Compare another connection or temporarily disable a VPN for the test.
Session
Refresh, sign in again if needed, and test a private window.
Model
Return to the default model to isolate model-specific availability.
Input
Shorten the prompt, remove the file, and create a minimal example.
For support
Five details that prevent a round trip
Never share an API key, password, or confidential document in a support request.
Context
- Time, time zone, and page URL.
- Exact action that triggers the issue.
Result
- Exact error or cleaned screenshot.
- Result of the no-file minimal test.
Environment
- Browser, device, and network type.
- Selected model, without secrets.
FAQ
Questions when DeepSeek is not working
These answers cover common failures without assuming the model is always the cause.
Q1
Why did DeepSeek stop responding?
Quota, model, a heavy conversation, file, or network can block it. Test a new chat with the default model and a short request.
Q2
Should I clear the browser cache?
Not first. Refresh and test a private window. Clearing cache can sign you out without revealing the real cause.
Q3
Why is my PDF rejected?
The file may be too large, protected, corrupt, or require sign-in. Test a small non-confidential PDF with selectable text.
Q4
How can I avoid losing my conversation?
Copy the prompt, decisions, and key context into a local note before refreshing. Do not copy secrets into an unapproved tool.
Restart from a minimal test
DeepSeek not working: try a clean conversation
Without a file, on the default model, with one question, you can tell whether the service responds.