Discord Not Working: Troubleshooting Guide to Get Back Online
Discord has become an indispensable communication tool for gamers, communities, and businesses alike. Its user-friendly interface, versatile features, and cross-platform compatibility have made it a go-to platform for voice, video, and text chat. However, like any software, Discord can sometimes encounter issues that prevent it from working correctly. When Discord stops functioning as expected, it can be frustrating and disruptive, especially when you need to connect with friends, teammates, or colleagues. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed troubleshooting approach to address various Discord-related problems and get you back online.
Understanding Common Discord Issues
Before diving into specific solutions, it’s helpful to understand the common reasons why Discord might not be working:
* Connectivity Issues: Problems with your internet connection are often the primary culprit.
* Discord Server Outages: Discord’s servers themselves can experience downtime.
* Software Glitches: Bugs or errors within the Discord application can cause malfunctions.
* Hardware Problems: Issues with your microphone, speakers, or headset can affect audio functionality.
* Outdated Software: Using an outdated version of Discord can lead to compatibility issues.
* Conflicting Applications: Other programs running on your computer might interfere with Discord.
* Firewall or Antivirus Restrictions: Security software might be blocking Discord’s access to the internet.
* Corrupted Cache: Corrupted temporary files can cause Discord to behave erratically.
* Driver Problems: Outdated or incompatible audio or video drivers can affect Discord’s performance.
Troubleshooting Steps
Follow these steps to diagnose and resolve Discord-related problems:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
The first and most crucial step is to ensure that your internet connection is stable and functioning correctly. Here’s how to verify your connection:
* Test Your Connection Speed: Use an online speed test tool (e.g., Speedtest.net) to check your upload and download speeds. Ensure that your speeds meet the minimum requirements for Discord, which are relatively low but still require a stable connection. For voice chat, a stable upload speed of at least 128 kbps is recommended.
* Restart Your Router and Modem: Power cycling your network devices can often resolve temporary connectivity issues. Unplug your modem and router from the power outlet, wait for 30 seconds, and then plug them back in. Allow a few minutes for the devices to restart and re-establish a connection.
* Try a Different Network: If possible, connect to a different network (e.g., a mobile hotspot) to see if the issue persists. This will help determine whether the problem lies with your primary internet connection.
* Check Ethernet Cable: If using ethernet double check to make sure the cable is properly connected to your computer and router.
2. Check Discord’s Server Status
Sometimes, Discord’s servers themselves might be experiencing outages or maintenance. You can check the official Discord Status page ([https://discordstatus.com/](https://discordstatus.com/)) to see if there are any reported issues. This page provides real-time updates on server status, API performance, and incident reports. If there’s a widespread outage, the only thing you can do is wait for Discord to resolve the issue.
3. Restart Discord
A simple restart can often fix minor software glitches. Close Discord completely (including from the system tray) and then relaunch it. To ensure a complete restart, follow these steps:
* Close Discord from the Taskbar (Windows): Right-click the Discord icon in the system tray (usually located in the bottom-right corner of your screen) and select “Quit Discord.”
* Force Quit Discord (Mac): Press Command + Option + Escape to open the Force Quit Applications window, select Discord, and click “Force Quit.”
4. Update Discord
Using an outdated version of Discord can cause compatibility issues and bugs. Discord typically updates automatically, but you can manually check for updates by following these steps:
* Windows: Close Discord completely and then relaunch it. Discord will automatically check for updates upon startup.
* Mac: Close Discord completely and then relaunch it. Discord will automatically check for updates upon startup. Alternatively, you can download the latest version from the Discord website.
5. Clear Discord Cache
Discord stores temporary files (cache) to improve performance. However, these files can sometimes become corrupted and cause problems. Clearing the cache can resolve these issues. Here’s how to clear the Discord cache:
* Close Discord completely.
* Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
* Type `%appdata%` and press Enter.
* Locate the Discord folder and delete it.
* Relaunch Discord.
* Mac: Open Finder, press Command+Shift+G, enter `~/Library/Application Support/discord`, and delete all files within the ‘discord’ folder. Relaunch Discord.
6. Disable Conflicting Applications
Some applications, particularly those that use overlays or hooks into other programs, can interfere with Discord. Common culprits include:
* Gaming Overlays: Programs like GeForce Experience, MSI Afterburner, and Fraps can sometimes conflict with Discord.
* Antivirus Software: Antivirus programs can occasionally block Discord’s access to the internet or specific files.
* VPNs: While VPNs can be useful for privacy, they can sometimes interfere with Discord’s connection.
Try disabling these applications one by one to see if it resolves the issue. If you identify a conflicting application, consider adding Discord to its exception list or disabling the application’s overlay feature.
7. Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking Discord’s access to the internet. To ensure that Discord is not being blocked, follow these steps:
* Windows Firewall: Open Windows Defender Firewall, click “Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall,” and make sure that Discord is checked for both private and public networks.
* Antivirus Software: Check your antivirus software’s settings to see if Discord is being blocked. Add Discord to the list of allowed programs or disable the antivirus temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.
* Router Firewall: Check your router’s firewall settings. The process varies depending on your router model, so consult your router’s manual or online resources for instructions. Make sure Discord is not being blocked.
8. Update Audio and Video Drivers
Outdated or incompatible audio and video drivers can cause problems with Discord’s voice and video functionality. To update your drivers, follow these steps:
* Windows:
* Open Device Manager (search for “Device Manager” in the Start menu).
* Expand “Audio inputs and outputs” and “Sound, video and game controllers.”
* Right-click on your audio and video devices and select “Update driver.”
* Choose “Search automatically for drivers” to let Windows find and install the latest drivers.
* Mac:
* Mac OS handles driver updates automatically. Ensure your operating system is up to date by going to System Preferences > Software Update.
9. Check Audio Input/Output Settings
Incorrect audio input/output settings can prevent Discord from recognizing your microphone or speakers. To configure your audio settings correctly, follow these steps:
* Discord Settings: Open Discord and go to User Settings > Voice & Video.
* Input Device: Select your microphone from the “Input Device” dropdown menu.
* Output Device: Select your speakers or headset from the “Output Device” dropdown menu.
* Input Mode: Choose either “Voice Activity” (Discord automatically detects when you’re speaking) or “Push to Talk” (you need to press a key to activate your microphone).
* Adjust Input Sensitivity: If you’re using “Voice Activity,” adjust the input sensitivity slider to ensure that Discord only detects your voice and not background noise.
* Test Your Microphone: Click the “Let’s Check” button to test your microphone. Speak into the microphone and see if the sound levels are registering in Discord.
* Windows Sound Settings: Right-click the volume icon in the system tray and select “Open Sound settings.” Make sure your microphone and speakers are selected as the default input and output devices.
* Mac Sound Settings: Go to System Preferences > Sound. Select the “Input” tab and choose your microphone. Select the “Output” tab and choose your speakers or headset.
10. Reinstall Discord
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, try reinstalling Discord. This will ensure that you have a clean installation of the software and can eliminate any corrupted files or settings.
* Uninstall Discord: In Windows, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features and uninstall Discord. On a Mac, drag the Discord application from the Applications folder to the Trash.
* Delete AppData (Windows): Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, type `%appdata%`, and press Enter. Locate the Discord folder and delete it.
* Delete Application Support (Mac): Open Finder, press Command+Shift+G, enter `~/Library/Application Support/`, and delete the Discord folder.
* Download and Reinstall: Download the latest version of Discord from the Discord website and reinstall it.
11. Check for Discord Updates on Mobile
If you are using discord on mobile, it is also wise to make sure you have installed the latest version of discord from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store depending on your device operating system. This will ensure you have the latest features and security enhancements.
12. Discord App Permissions (Mobile)
Make sure Discord has the proper permissions enabled on your phone. For example, on Andriod go to settings then Apps, look for discord, then tap Permissions. Make sure the proper permissions are enabled, especially Microphone access. The process is similar on an iPhone.
13. Contact Discord Support
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and Discord is still not working, it’s time to contact Discord support for assistance. You can submit a support request through the Discord website or app. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible about the issue you’re experiencing, including any error messages you’re seeing and the steps you’ve already taken to troubleshoot the problem.
Alternative Solutions
Here are a few more suggestions to keep in mind:
* Try the Web Version: If the desktop app isn’t working, try using Discord in your web browser. This can help determine if the issue is specific to the app.
* Run Discord as Administrator: Right-click the Discord shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” This can sometimes resolve permission-related issues.
* Check for Malware: Run a scan with your antivirus software to check for malware that might be interfering with Discord.
* Use a Different DNS Server: Change your DNS server to a public DNS server like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).
* Disable Hardware Acceleration: In Discord settings, go to Appearance and disable Hardware Acceleration. This can sometimes resolve performance issues.
Conclusion
Discord is a powerful communication tool, but it can sometimes encounter issues that prevent it from working correctly. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can diagnose and resolve most Discord-related problems and get back online quickly. Remember to start with the basics, such as checking your internet connection and restarting Discord, and then move on to more advanced solutions if necessary. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact Discord support for assistance.
By systematically addressing potential issues and utilizing the various troubleshooting techniques described above, you can minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth and reliable Discord experience. Whether you’re gaming, collaborating, or simply staying connected with friends, resolving Discord-related problems promptly will help you make the most of this versatile communication platform.