Downdetector
In short
Downdetector is an online platform that tracks real-time service outages for websites and digital services. It uses crowdsourced data to show when specific platforms are experiencing technical problems.
In plain words
When a website stops working, people report it on this site. It then shows a map and a list of reports so everyone can see if a problem is widespread or just local.
A simple example
If your banking app suddenly fails to load, you can check Downdetector to see if thousands of other people are reporting the same issue. This helps you know if the fault is with your phone or the bank's servers.
Why it matters
It provides instant proof of a service failure, saving users time spent troubleshooting their own devices. It also helps companies monitor the scale and location of technical glitches.
Easy to mix up
It is often confused with official status pages provided directly by companies like Google or Microsoft.