Updating Discord on Windows: A Quick Guide

Updating Discord on Windows: A Quick Guide

/ Shayne Sherman

Discord is a free voice and text chat app designed for gamers to communicate with each other in real-time. It allows users to create their communities, customize them with unique settings, and interact with them using either voice or text messages. The app also offers powerful moderation tools, which help keep the community safe from trolls and bots.

Discord is available on different platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, web browsers, and even Xbox One. Its ease of use and various features make it increasingly popular with gamers and people who want to stay connected with friends without downloading additional software or paying for services.

Update Discord on Launch

Step 1: Launch Discord.

  • Double-click the Discord shortcut icon.
discord profile
  • If you don’t have a shortcut icon, click the Start menu, type Discord, and click the discord application to open it.
search discord

  • Another way, go to the installation folder > AppData > Local > Discord and open the app version (example: app-1.09010). Find Discord.exe, and click the .exe file to open Discord.
launch discord exe in its folder

Step 2: The Discord app will automatically update Discord and install them.

Step 3: When the update is finished, you will see a change log/new features list, and you can use Discord to send and receive messages.

discord is updating

Update Discord While Running

This method is suitable for those who wish to update Discord without interrupting their session. It is important to remember that while Discord will download the updates, they will not be installed until the PC is restarted. This final step is necessary to complete the installation process.

Step 1: Open Discord and Maximize the Discord app window.

Step 2: Press CTRL + R while running Discord to refresh the app’s UI. The Discord window will go blank for a few seconds.

ctrl r keys

Step 3: If any updates are available, Discord will automatically install and update.

discord is updating

Step 4: Restart your computer.

Step 5: After restarting your computer, relaunch Discord, and Discord updates will automatically be installed.

Reinstall Discord

Sometimes, updating Discord through the usual methods may not work as expected, and in such cases, uninstalling Discord and reinstalling the app can be a simple and effective solution. This process can also help fix Discord and resolve any issues or errors you may face with the Discord app. Uninstalling and reinstalling Discord is a straightforward process that only takes a few minutes to complete.

Step 1: Press Win + I to open the Windows Settings.

windows i key

Step 2: Go to Apps > Apps & Features

Step 3: Find Discord Application and click the Uninstall button.

uninstall discord from apps and features

Step 4: Go to the Discord website, download, and install the latest app version.

Discord Update Failed Error

The Discord Update Failed Error is a common issue users face while updating the Discord app on their devices. This error message typically appears when the update process is interrupted or the app cannot download the necessary files.

This can happen for various reasons, such as network connectivity issues, outdated software, insufficient storage, or even interference from antivirus software. This error can be frustrating for users as it prevents them from accessing the latest features and bug fixes offered by the app.

discord update filed error

What Should I Do if Discord Runs Into an Update Loop?

You’re not alone if you’ve experienced an endless loop while trying to update Discord. This common issue can happen when the app cannot complete the update process, causing it to try and update without success continuously. This can be frustrating as it stops you from accessing the app’s latest features and bug fixes.

However, you can take a few steps to resolve this issue and successfully update Discord. The solution will likely be simple, whether due to conflicting software or network connectivity issues.

Run Discord as an Administrator

Running Discord as an administrator is a simple solution to resolve various technical issues you may encounter while using the app. By running the app with administrative privileges, you are granting it access to system resources and permissions that it may not have by default. This can be especially helpful when encountering problems with the app’s installation, update, or network connectivity.

Step 1: Right-click on the Discord shortcut icon.

Step 2: Select Run as an administrator.

run discord as administrator 1

Step 3: Click the Yes button to confirm in the User Account Control window.

Step 4: Wait for Discord to check and install any latest updates.

Temporarily Disable Windows Defender

Temporarily disabling Windows Defender can be a solution to fix the Discord Runs into An Update Loop error. This error can occur when interference from antivirus software, including Windows Defender, disrupts the app’s update process. By temporarily disabling Windows Defender, you can allow Discord to complete its update process without any interference.

After the update, you can re-enable Windows Defender to protect your device. However, it is important to remember that disabling your antivirus software, even temporarily, can increase the risk of security vulnerabilities.

Step 1: Press Win + I keyboard shortcut to open the Windows Settings.

Step 2: Click on Update & Security.

windows update and security

Step 3: Select Windows Security > Virus & Threat protection

open virus and threat protection

Step 4: Click on Manage Settings.

virus and threat manage settings

Step 5: Toggle off Real-time protection

switch off real time protection

Step 6: Relaunch Discord and check if the problem is solved.

Completely Remove Discord

This process involves uninstalling the Discord app from your device and downloading and installing it again. This solution can resolve various technical issues that may be causing the update to fail, such as corrupted files, conflicting software, or insufficient storage.

By completely removing and reinstalling Discord, you can start fresh with a new installation free of any issues, with its unique features, security patches, and performance improvements. However, it is important to note that this process will delete any saved data or preferences associated with your Discord account.

Step 1: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2: Type %appdata% and click the OK button.

Step 3: Locate the Discord folder, right-click, and select Delete.

delete discord folder

Step 4: Right-click on the Windows Icon and select App and Features.

Step 5: Find the Discord app and click the Uninstall button.

uninstall discord from apps and features

Step 6: Go to the Discord website and download the latest version.

Updating Discord on Windows: A Simple Process to Enhance Your Experience

Keeping Discord updated is crucial for smooth communication and optimal performance. This guide has covered various methods to update Discord on Windows, from updating on launch to completely removing and reinstalling the app. If you encounter an update failed error or update loop, we have provided easy solutions to troubleshoot those issues. Running Discord as an administrator or temporarily disabling Windows Defender may resolve update-related problems. By following these quick and easy steps, you can ensure that you always have the latest version of Discord and enjoy a seamless chat and gaming experience.

Shayne Sherman
Meet the author

Shayne is an expert on all things Microsoft Windows and computer security. As a Windows user of over 30 years, he has been featured on Business Insider, Yahoo, Tech Republic, Hacker Noon, Techopedia, and many other publications. Aside from entertaining at his home theater, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his English bulldog, Fergie.