Discord JavaScript Error? 10 Working Solutions

Quick Fix

Delete the Discord cache folders. Press Windows + R, type %appdata% and delete the Discord folder. Then type %localappdata% and delete the Discord folder there too. Restart Discord and the JavaScript error should be resolved.

Understanding the Discord JavaScript Error

The Discord JavaScript error typically appears as “A JavaScript error occurred in the main process” and prevents Discord from launching properly. This error is related to Discord’s Electron framework, which uses JavaScript to run the desktop application.

Common causes include corrupted cache files, conflicts with other software, outdated Discord installations, or issues with the BetterDiscord modification. Sometimes Windows updates or antivirus software can interfere with Discord’s processes.

The good news is this error is almost always fixable without losing your server memberships, friends list, or settings – those are stored on Discord’s servers, not locally.

Method 1: Clear Discord Cache and AppData

1. Make sure Discord is completely closed (check Task Manager)
2. Press Windows + R to open Run
3. Type %appdata% and press Enter
4. Find and delete the Discord folder
5. Press Windows + R again
6. Type %localappdata% and press Enter
7. Find and delete the Discord folder here too
8. Restart your computer and launch Discord

Method 2: End All Discord Processes

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
2. Click More details if in compact mode
3. Look for any Discord processes in the list
4. Right-click each Discord process and select End task
5. Also end any “Discord” entries under Background processes
6. Wait a few seconds
7. Try launching Discord again

Method 3: Run Discord as Administrator

1. Find the Discord shortcut on your desktop or Start menu
2. Right-click on it and select Properties
3. Go to the Compatibility tab
4. Check the box for Run this program as an administrator
5. Click Apply, then OK
6. Launch Discord using this shortcut
7. Accept the UAC prompt if it appears

Method 4: Reinstall Discord Completely

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
2. Go to Apps > Apps and features
3. Search for Discord and click Uninstall
4. After uninstalling, clear cache folders (Method 1)
5. Download the latest Discord installer from discord.com
6. Run the installer and complete setup
7. Log in with your account

Method 5: Remove BetterDiscord (If Installed)

1. If you have BetterDiscord installed, it may cause conflicts
2. Navigate to %appdata%\BetterDiscord
3. Delete the entire BetterDiscord folder
4. Go to %appdata%\Discord
5. Open the folder matching your Discord version (e.g., 0.0.309)
6. Open the modules folder
7. Delete any BetterDiscord-related files
8. Reinstall Discord fresh

Method 6: Disable Hardware Acceleration

1. If Discord opens briefly, quickly go to Settings (gear icon)
2. Navigate to Advanced
3. Toggle off Hardware Acceleration
4. Discord will prompt to restart – accept it
5. If you can’t access settings, edit the settings file manually
6. Open %appdata%\Discord\settings.json in Notepad
7. Add "DANGEROUS_ENABLE_DEVTOOLS_ONLY_ENABLE_IF_YOU_KNOW_WHAT_YOURE_DOING": true

Method 7: Update Windows and Graphics Drivers

1. Press Windows + I and go to Windows Update
2. Click Check for updates and install any available
3. Restart your computer after updates
4. Update your graphics drivers from manufacturer’s website
5. For NVIDIA: geforce.com/drivers
6. For AMD: amd.com/support
7. Restart again after driver updates

Method 8: Check Antivirus and Firewall

1. Temporarily disable your antivirus software
2. Try launching Discord
3. If it works, add Discord to your antivirus exclusions
4. Check Windows Firewall settings
5. Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall
6. Click Allow an app through firewall
7. Ensure Discord is allowed for both Private and Public networks

Preventing Future JavaScript Errors

• Keep Discord updated to the latest version
• Clear Discord cache monthly to prevent buildup
• Avoid using unofficial Discord modifications that may cause conflicts
• Whitelist Discord in your antivirus software
• Don’t interrupt Discord updates while they’re installing

FAQ

Will I lose my servers and messages if I reinstall Discord?

No, all your servers, friends, messages, and settings are stored on Discord’s servers. Reinstalling only removes local files. You’ll log back in and everything will be there.

Why does this error keep coming back?

Recurring JavaScript errors usually indicate a conflict with third-party software, corrupted Windows files, or issues with Discord mods like BetterDiscord. Try a clean install without any modifications.

Can I use Discord Web while fixing this?

Yes! Go to discord.com/app in your browser to access Discord while troubleshooting the desktop app. It has most features except screen sharing audio and push-to-talk.

Does this error affect Discord on my phone?

No, the JavaScript error only affects the Windows desktop application. The mobile apps and web version use different technologies and won’t be affected.

What if none of these solutions work?

Contact Discord Support at dis.gd/support with details about when the error started and what you’ve tried. They can investigate account-specific issues or widespread bugs.

Is it safe to delete the AppData folders?

Yes, the Discord folders in AppData only contain local cache and settings. Deleting them won’t affect your account. Discord will recreate these folders when you log back in.