What is Facebook?

Facebook is a social networking platform where you can connect with friends, family, and communities. Launched in 2004, it lets you share status updates, photos, videos, join groups, and discover local events. Think of it as a digital hub that blends personal sharing with public content—all in one place. As of mid‑2025, around 3.04 billion people use Facebook every month.

Why does Facebook matter for you?

Facebook remains a major channel for communication, discovery, and even customer support. Its sheer scale means:

  • Reach: It’s still the world’s biggest social platform—roughly 60% of all social media users are on it.
  • Versatility: Whether you’re catching up with friends, joining hobbyist groups, posting a job ad, or buying something in Marketplace, it’s all under one roof.
  • Business tool: Organic content, community building, paid ads, and events all work together—at scale.

How does the Facebook feed decide what you see?

Facebook uses an AI-powered algorithm that evaluates content based on what it thinks you’ll find interesting. Posts fall into:

  1. Connected content (from your friends, groups, and pages you follow).
  2. Recommended content (pages or people you don’t follow yet).
  3. Ads (targeted based on your interests).

So you see a mix of personal updates, trending posts, and ads—all tuned to your behavior and preferences.

What makes Facebook different from TikTok or Instagram?

Facebook stands out in a few ways:

  • Groups & Communities: Facebook Groups are strong, long‑lasting communities built around shared interests—far more than fleeting trends.
  • Local Connections: It’s a go‑to hub for events, local buying/selling through Marketplace, and neighborhood discussions.
  • Multi-content formats: You’ll still find photos and links, plus Reels (short videos), stories, live video, and more.

Who uses Facebook today?

Facebook isn’t just for Gen X or Baby Boomers—it spans a wide age range:

  • Largest age group is 25–34, making up about 31% of users.
  • Still ranked #1 for ages 30–65.
  • Teeming with nearly 3.1 billion monthly active users globally as of mid‑2025.

How can you make the most of Facebook?

  • Join & engage in Groups: Whether it’s a hobby, parenting, or industry interest, active group participation can boost visibility and connections.
  • Mix formats: Use a blend—static posts, Stories, Reels, events—to keep things fresh and engage different audiences.
  • Tap into local tools: Try Marketplace for local sales, or create/curate events to reach nearby people.
  • Be aware of algorithm shifts: The feed increasingly favors enjoyable, AI‑recommended content—especially video—so diversify your content.

Tips & best practices

  • Think social and local: Use groups and events to build real connections and generate word‑of‑mouth.
  • Serve your audience: Share content that’s helpful, entertaining, or adds value—don’t just post for the sake of posting.
  • Stay adaptable: Facebook keeps evolving (Reels, algorithm tweaks, moderation policy updates), so keep an eye on emerging features.
  • Balance organic & paid: Combine authentic engagement with smart advertising to grow your reach in a holistic way.

Facebook is more than just a place for status updates. It’s a multi‑faceted platform that blends personal connection, community building, local discovery, and business opportunity. Whether you’re keeping in touch with friends or building your brand, knowing how Facebook works in 2025 gives you a clear advantage.