Quick Summary
The "Discord update failed" error indicates that Discord was unable to download or install the latest updates. This can prevent you from using certain features or even launching the application.
Common Causes
- Insufficient Permissions: Discord may not have the necessary permissions to write files to its installation directory, preventing it from updating.
- Antivirus Interference: Your antivirus software might be falsely flagging Discord's update process as a threat and blocking it.
- Corrupted Installation: The existing Discord installation files may be corrupted, preventing the update from being applied correctly.
- Network Issues: A temporary network connectivity problem can interrupt the download of the update, resulting in a failed update.
- Discord Process Running in the Background: If Discord or its update process is already running, it may prevent the update from completing.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Run Discord as Administrator
Step 1: Close Discord completely. Ensure it's not running in the system tray.
Step 2: Right-click on the Discord desktop shortcut or executable file.
Step 3: Select "Run as administrator".
Step 4: Allow the app to make changes to your device if prompted.
Step 5: Discord should now attempt to update with elevated permissions.
Method 2: Disable Antivirus Temporarily
Step 1: Locate your antivirus software icon in the system tray.
Step 2: Right-click the icon and select the option to temporarily disable it (e.g., "Disable for 15 minutes").
Step 3: Launch Discord and check if the update proceeds successfully.
Step 4: Important: Re-enable your antivirus software immediately after updating Discord.
Method 3: Completely Uninstall and Reinstall Discord
Step 1: Close Discord completely.
Step 2: Press Windows Key + R, type "appwiz.cpl", and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
Step 3: Locate Discord in the list of installed programs, right-click on it, and select "Uninstall".
Step 4: Press Windows Key + R, type "%appdata%", and press Enter.
Step 5: Delete the "Discord" folder.
Step 6: Press Windows Key + R, type "%localappdata%", and press Enter.
Step 7: Delete the "Discord" folder.
Step 8: Download the latest version of Discord from the official Discord website (discord.com).
Step 9: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Method 4: Check Your Internet Connection
Step 1: Ensure you have a stable internet connection by browsing other websites.
Step 2: Restart your router and modem.
Step 3: If using Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired connection.
Method 5: End Discord Processes in Task Manager
Step 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
Step 2: In the "Processes" tab, look for any processes named "Discord".
Step 3: Select each Discord process and click "End Task".
Step 4: Launch Discord again to initiate the update.