Discord 'Update Failed' Error
Discord is a popular communication platform that allows users to chat, voice chat, and video chat with their friends and communities. It was launched in 2015 and has gained a massive following due to its easy-to-use interface and customizable features. Discord has become a hub for gamers, content creators, and online communities. It turned from a niche messaging application focused predominantly on PC gamers to one of the major platforms offering VoIP, video, streaming, and instant messaging services.
Discord is undeniably a popular application, but sometimes its client might refuse to update properly, and instead, users would be presented with a 'Discord Update Failed' error. This error message dialog box appears when the Discord app fails to download and install the latest update. Users who encounter Discord update failure cannot access the latest features and improvements that come with the update.
Why Am I Seeing the Discord 'Update Failed' Error?
The main causes for this issue are potential network issues or Discord files becoming corrupted (more specifically, the 'Update.exe'). The most common cause is a slow or unreliable internet connection. If the internet speed is slow or the connection is unstable, the system may counter server issues, and the update file may not download properly. Another possible cause is the interference of an antivirus program. Antivirus software can sometimes block the update file, preventing it from downloading or installing. In some cases, residual files from a previous installation may also cause the update to fail.
Users can try several troubleshooting steps to fix the Discord 'Update Failed' error. Check out our step-by-step guide below to resolve this update issue.
Reset the Network Configuration
The first potential fix involves resetting the system's network configurations. One of the best methods is to use command lines in an elevated Command Prompt.
- Press the Windows (Windows logo key) + R keys on your keyboard simultaneously.
- Type command prompt in the Run window and press Ctrl+Shift+Enter on your keyboard to open an elevated Command Prompt.
- Type the following command lines one by one and press Enter after each line:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
- Restart the PC and then try to update Discord once more.
Fix the Corrupted 'Update.exe' File
The easiest way to deal with a corrupted 'Update.exe' file is to simply rename it. Discord will then be forced to replace the missing file with a fresh uncorrupted copy.
- Press the Windows (Windows logo key) + R on your keyboard.
- In the Run window, type %LocalAppData% and click 'OK.'
- Open the Discord folder.
- Find 'Update.exe,' right-click it, and choose 'Rename' from the drop-down menu.
- Change the name to something like 'UpdateOld.exe.'
- Launch Discord and see if it updates normally.
Reinstall Discord Entirely
If nothing else seems to work, try uninstalling Discord completely and then do a fresh install of the application. You can remove the program via any of the usual uninstall methods. However, remember that certain residual files might be left on the system. You may need to check the AppData folder (AppData/Roaming and AppData/Local) to delete the residual Discord folders manually.
App Legitimacy & Cache
It is advised to use official Discord installers when installing new software. It is important for system safety because it ensures that the software being installed is genuine and free of malware or viruses. Moreover, official installers also provide regular updates that address security vulnerabilities and improve the performance of the software. In contrast, downloading software from unofficial sources or using pirated versions can expose the system to potential security risks and compromise its overall stability.
Also, it is recommended to clean the Discord cache when users encounter Discord 'Update Failed' error because cached data can sometimes interfere with the update process and cause issues. Clearing the cache can help resolve conflicts and ensure the latest update files are downloaded and installed correctly. In addition, clearing the cache can also improve the overall performance of the Discord app by freeing up disk space and reducing the load on system resources.
How to Clean Discord Cache on Windows
- Press Windows + R to open the Run prompt.
- Type %appdata% into the Open box. Click OK.
- Find the Discord folder on the list, and open it.
- Mark Cache, Code Cache, and GPUCache folders and right-click them.
- On the drop-down menu, select Delete.
- Empty Recycle Bin.
How to Clean Discord Cache on Mac
- Open Finder and click Go.
- Select Go to Folder on the drop-down menu.
- Type ~/Library/Application Support/discord/ and click Go.
- Right-click Cache, Code Cache, and GPUCache folders in the Discord directory.
- Select Move to Bin.
- Right-click the Trash icon and then select Empty Trash.