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Discord update failed: 7 Fixes

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  • 4 min read

Discord is a rather popular VoIP program used by millions across the globe. The program was initially meant for gamers but since then has evolved to incorporate a much wider audience.

Its biggest strength is the ease of use to just about anyone looking to try the program. However, that’s not to say that Discord doesn’t come with its issues. In this article, we’re taking a look at how to fix Discord’s update failed error.

Also read: Discord screen share no audio: 12 Fixes


Restart everything

Restart the Discord app, your device and your networking equipment. Restarting devices can fix a bunch of seemingly random issues, including the Discord update failed issue. 


Run Discord as administrator

Since Discord uses UDP to communicate with its servers, there’s a chance that inappropriate permissions are getting in its way. Try running Discord with administrator privileges to check if that resolves your issue. 

Right-click on the Discord icon either on the desktop or the start menu and choose the Run as Administrator option. 


Check your internet connection

Discord requires an active internet connection to work. If you have an unstable internet connection, chances are you’re going to miss out on notifications. Suppose you’re on WiFi check to see if you’ve got internet access and strong signals. If you’re on mobile data, check to see if data is enabled and that you’ve got good network coverage.


Disable any firewalls

If you’re using any third-party firewalls, now’s the time to disable them to see if they’re blocking Discord. The same goes for any third-party antiviruses.

If your Windows firewall is blocking Discord, refer to this guide to see how you can unblock the program.

Also read: Discord won’t open: 10 Fixes


Restart from the Task Manager

Try quitting the Discord process from the Task Manager and relaunching it to see if that solves your problem.

Step 1: Right-click the Taskbar and click on Task Manager.

Discord won't open: 10 Fixes | Candid.Technology

Step 2: Find the Discord process and end it using the End task button in the bottom right.

Discord won't open: 10 Fixes | Candid.Technology

Now restart Discord, and it should work just fine. 


Delete Discord folders

DIscord saves its resource files in the AppData and LocalAppData directories. By deleting these folders and restarting Discord, you can force the program to rebuild these files, resolving any problems in the process. 

Step 1: Open the Run prompt using Windows Key + R, type in %appdata% and hit enter.

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Step 2: Delete the discord folder in the directory.

How to fix Discord Javascript error? | Candid.Technology

Now repeat these steps with %localappdata% and restart Discord.

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Reinstall Discord

If all else fails, your best bet is to reinstall Discord from scratch.

Step 1: Press Windows key + X to open the Quick Access menu and click on Apps & Features. 

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Step 2: Find Discord in this list and click on Uninstall. 

Why is my Discord overlay not working? | Candid.Technology

Once the program has been removed, restart your PC, reinstall Discord and try launching it again. This should get the latest update installed on your PC.

Also read: How to fix Discord No Route error?

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah is a Computer Science graduate who writes/edits/shoots/codes all things cybersecurity, gaming, and tech hardware. When he's not, he streams himself racing virtual cars. He's been writing and reporting on tech and cybersecurity with websites like Candid.Technology and MakeUseOf since 2018. You can contact him here: yadullahabidi@pm.me.

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