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How to fix Discord stuck on ‘Checking for updates’ issue: The desktop application for Discord, in contrast to most other programs, will automatically update itself whenever you start it up. In most cases, Discord will check for available updates, then download and install any new versions that are available. After it’s finished, you’ll be able to use the Discord app as you normally would. However, some users have reported issues, such as Discord getting stuck on the screen that reads “Checking for updates.” When this occurs, the process of updating the app takes an extremely long time to complete, and it is not uncommon for the app to crash after the update has been applied.
After you have successfully launched Discord on a personal computer or a Mac, one of the first things that you will see is the Discord logo, along with the text “Checking for updates.” This procedure is carried out each and every time Discord is started up to ensure that your installation of the program is always up to date with the most recent stable release. Because Discord is so good at updating itself quickly, you probably won’t even notice it much if you use it on a daily basis. This is because Discord allows you to get back to your servers very quickly. Refreshing the app by pressing Ctrl/Command + R might work for some users in the event that there was a minor glitch. If, however, the issue continues, you will likely need to perform additional diagnostic testing. Here are the ways how to fix Discord stuck on ‘Checking for updates’ issue.
What is Discord?
The online communication platform known as Discord was at first developed specifically for gamers, but its user base has since expanded to include people from a variety of different demographics. Users are granted the ability to create and join virtual communities referred to as servers, in which they are able to communicate with one another using text, voice, and video. People who are interested in connecting with others who have similar passions and hobbies frequently turn to the platform known as Discord.
The capability of Discord to generate multiple channels within a single server is one of the program’s most useful functions. These channels are designed to assist users in organizing conversations centered on particular topics, and they may consist of text, voice, or video content. For instance, a server dedicated to gaming might have channels for a variety of game genres, while a server dedicated to music might have channels for a variety of musical genres or specific artists.
Private messaging is also supported on Discord, allowing users to communicate with each other either one-on-one or in more intimate settings such as small groups. People who want to have private conversations or discuss sensitive topics that they don’t want to share with the entire server can make use of this feature. It is useful for people who want to have private conversations or discuss sensitive topics.
Causes of the Discord stuck on ‘Checking for updates’ issue
- Network Issues: Slow or unstable internet connections can prevent Discord from checking for updates. Make sure your internet connection is stable and not blocked by a firewall.
- Firewall or Antivirus Software: Overly aggressive firewall or antivirus settings may block Discord’s update process. Ensure that Discord is allowlisted in your security software.
- Proxy or VPN: If you’re using a proxy or VPN, it can interfere with Discord’s ability to check for updates. Try disabling them temporarily.
- Discord Outages: Sometimes, Discord’s servers experience downtime or maintenance, which can prevent the app from updating. Check Discord’s official status page for any ongoing issues.
- Outdated Client: An outdated or corrupted Discord client can cause update problems. Uninstall and reinstall Discord to ensure you have the latest version.
- Windows Issues: Windows updates or system corruption can affect Discord’s performance. Make sure your operating system is up to date and consider running system file checks like SFC (System File Checker).
How to fix Discord stuck on ‘Checking for updates’ issue
Close Discord and Relaunch

- Press
Ctrl + Shift + Esc(Windows) orCommand + Option + Esc(Mac) to open the Task Manager. - Locate Discord in the application list, select it, and click “End Task” (Windows) or “Force Quit” (Mac).
- Restart Discord from your desktop or applications folder.
Run Discord as Administrator
- Right-click on the Discord shortcut or executable file.
- Select “Run as administrator” from the context menu.
- Confirm any pop-up prompts to proceed.
Clear Discord Cache
- Close Discord completely.
- Press
Windows + R, type%appdata%, and press Enter. For Mac, useCommand + Spaceand type “Library,” then navigate toApplication Support. - Find the Discord folder and delete it.
- Restart Discord.
Disable Windows Defender Firewall
- Open Windows Security.
- Click on “Firewall & network protection.”
- Click on your active network and turn off Windows Defender Firewall.
- Remember to enable it again after Discord updates successfully.
Reinstall Discord
- Uninstall Discord from your computer.
- Download the latest version of Discord from the official website.
- Install the downloaded Discord application.
Conclusion
On Discord, gamers can go live, share screens, and chat with friends through audio/video calls and text messages while playing the game. This application is more stable because it releases new updates from time to time and enhances its features. But unfortunately, sometimes, many users need help with the problem that their Discord app gets stuck on the updates check.
Questions and Answers
A simple solution to the Discord Update Failed error could be simply running the application with administrative permissions. This allows the updater to make changes on your device, therefore download and install the new Discord update. Please note that for this, your local account must be an administrator.
You will need to restart the app in order to force an update to download and install on Discord. On Windows, press the Ctrl + R keys, and on a Mac, press the Command + R keys. After you have completed this step, the screen will remain blank while Discord begins to restart. If there is an update that needs to be installed, Discord will now begin the process of updating itself if it is available.
The error message “Discord update failed” can appear for a number of different reasons, but one of the most common is that you do not have sufficient administrative access. There is a good chance that Discord will be unable to upload new messages to its servers because the administrative access for Discord was not properly configured.