Quick Summary
A Discord JavaScript error generally indicates a problem with the Discord application's code execution on your system, often resulting in client instability or a crash. This error can stem from corrupted files, conflicting processes, outdated drivers, or issues with Discord's own code.
Common Causes
- Corrupted Discord Files: Damaged or incomplete files within the Discord installation directory can disrupt the application's functionality and trigger JavaScript errors.
- Conflicting Processes or Programs: Other applications or background processes running on your computer might interfere with Discord's operation, leading to JavaScript errors and crashes.
- Outdated Graphics Drivers: Old or incompatible graphics drivers can cause rendering issues within Discord, triggering JavaScript errors and instability, especially in features that heavily rely on graphics processing like screen sharing and streaming.
- Discord Bugs: Sometimes, a bug in Discord's code itself can be the cause. These are usually fixed relatively quickly by the Discord developers.
- Hardware Acceleration Issues: Hardware acceleration, while intended to improve performance, can sometimes cause conflicts with certain graphics cards or drivers, leading to JavaScript errors.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Discord
Step 1: Completely close Discord. Make sure it's not running in the system tray.
Step 2: Re-open Discord and check if the error persists.
Method 2: Force Close Discord Processes
Step 1: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc).
Step 2: Look for any Discord processes running (e.g., Discord.exe).
Step 3: Select each Discord process and click 'End Task'.
Step 4: Re-open Discord.
Method 3: Restart Your Computer
Step 1: Save your work.
Step 2: Restart your computer.
Step 3: After the restart, open Discord and see if the issue continues.
Method 4: Clear Discord Cache and Data
Step 1: Close Discord completely.
Step 2: Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Step 3: Type %appdata% and press Enter.
Step 4: Find the 'Discord' folder and delete it.
Step 5: Open the Run dialog box again, type %localappdata%, and press Enter.
Step 6: Find the 'Discord' folder and delete it.
Step 7: Re-open Discord. You will need to log in again.
Method 5: Update Graphics Drivers
Step 1: Identify your graphics card (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
Step 2: Visit the manufacturer's website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
Step 3: Download the latest drivers for your graphics card.
Step 4: Install the drivers following the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Restart your computer.
Method 6: Disable Hardware Acceleration
Step 1: Open Discord.
Step 2: Go to 'User Settings' (the gear icon next to your username).
Step 3: Click on 'Appearance' under 'App Settings'.
Step 4: Scroll down to 'Advanced' and disable 'Hardware Acceleration'.
Step 5: Restart Discord.
Method 7: Reinstall Discord
Step 1: Uninstall Discord from your computer.
Step 2: Download the latest version of Discord from the official website.
Step 3: Install Discord.