Alex Ruben
How to Resolve Discord Update Failed Error on Windows 11
Encountering the “Update Failed” error in Discord while using Windows 11 can be a significant hurdle, especially when you want to connect with friends and communities. This error may arise from various issues such as network problems, corrupted installation files, or conflicts with other software. Fortunately, there are effective methods to resolve this problem. In this guide, you will learn step-by-step how to troubleshoot and fix the Discord update issues on your Windows 11 PC.
Step 1: Close Discord Processes in Task Manager
The first action is to ensure that no Discord processes are running in the background, which may interfere with updates. To do this:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc or by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager window, look for any processes named
Discord.exeorUpdate.exe. - Right-click on each of these processes and select End Task to completely close them.
After closing these processes, attempt to update Discord again.
Step 2: Rename the Discord Update File
If the update still fails, the next step is to rename the Discord update file. This can help reset the update process:
- Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
- Type in
%localappdata%and hit Enter. - In the Local App Data folder, locate the
Discordfolder. - Within the Discord folder, find the file named
Update.exeorDiscord.exe. - Right-click on the file and select Rename. Append the word
repairto the end of the file name, so it readsUpdate_repair.exeorDiscord_repair.exe, then press Enter.
Try reopening Discord to see if the update proceeds successfully.
Step 3: Uninstall and Reinstall Discord
If the update issue persists, a fresh installation of Discord may be necessary. Follow these steps to uninstall and reinstall Discord:
- Open Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to Apps and then Installed apps.
- Scroll through the list to find
Discord, click on the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall. - After uninstalling, restart your computer to clear any lingering processes that might interfere with the installation.
- Download the latest version of Discord from the official website: Discord Download.
- Run the installer to reinstall Discord.
A fresh installation should resolve any update issues you were experiencing.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To enhance your experience with Discord and avoid future issues:
- Ensure your internet connection is stable before starting updates.
- Regularly clear the Discord cache located in the
%appdata%folder to prevent corrupted files. - Check for any security software that may be blocking Discord’s update processes, and consider whitelisting it.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to successfully resolve the “Update Failed” error in Discord on your Windows 11 PC. Regular maintenance and updates can help ensure a seamless experience with Discord. If you encounter further issues, consider reaching out to Discord support or checking community forums for additional solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if Discord won’t open after reinstalling?
If Discord fails to open post-installation, ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for running the application. Additionally, verify that no security software is blocking Discord.
Can I use Discord without updating?
While it’s possible to use Discord without the latest updates, it’s highly recommended to keep it updated for security fixes, new features, and improved performance.
How do I check for network issues affecting Discord?
You can troubleshoot network issues by running the network troubleshooter in Windows. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status and click on Network troubleshooter.