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What Causes the Discord JavaScript Error

The Discord JavaScript error is a pop-up that may appear when you try to run Discord on your PC. Multiple processes and configurations on your computer can cause the fatal JavaScript error you’re getting. Among the most common are:

Incorrect Windows/Discord configurations: incorrect or incompatible configurations lead to syncing issues, as system and app data aren’t working as they should or aren’t compatible.Antivirus restriction: there may be instances where Discord’s installation files are detected as threats by your computer’s antivirus software. Since potential threats (e.g. Discord data) are put in quarantine and prevented from running by your antivirus software, Discord won’t be able to run properly and may encounter errors.Corrupt or incorrect Discord installation: failed or incorrect installation of Discord can also be the reason it shows a fatal JavaScript error every time you try to launch it. This happens because Discord’s data wasn’t extracted and installed properly due to an interruption during installation initiated by you or other factors, such as your computer shutting down or getting stuck in the middle of the process.

Having problems with your mic on Discord? Try one or more of these fixes. We’ve compiled five ways to help you solve the Discord JavaScript error and enjoy Discord and its features again.

1. Perform a Clean Install of Discord

One way to get rid of the JavaScript error is to uninstall Discord, delete all of its data, and reinstall it to get rid of any corrupted or bad files that might be preventing Discord from running properly.

2. Disable or Check Your Antivirus Program’s Restrictions

There are cases where your antivirus program may determine some of Discord’s data could be harmful to your computer. In this case, you can either disable your antivirus program temporarily and launch Discord to see if the error persists or check your antivirus program’s app restrictions. The antivirus software of your computer sometimes detects the “update.exe” under Discord’s installation folder as malware or an infected file. When this happens, launching Discord leads to a fatal JavaScript error. To fix this issue, launch the antivirus program installed on your computer, then add all of Discord’s files to the list of exceptions to prevent your antivirus program from interrupting whenever you attempt to launch Discord. If you’re using Windows Defender on your PC and have updated to the latest Windows 11 version 22H2, go to Windows Security and tweak the “Smart App Control” and “Reputation-based protection” sections under “Virus & protection” to make sure Discord isn’t included.

3. Run Discord as Administrator

Running Discord as an administrator allows it to execute files with fewer to no restrictions from Windows. Follow the steps below. Tip: if you’ve ever encountered a “This setting is managed by your Administrator” error, follow this advice to handle it.

4. Update Windows’s Group Policy

Your Windows computer’s group policy is used to manage security and user settings, software, Windows updates, and more. You can force update outdated system files that could be preventing Discord from running by updating your computer’s group policy.

5. Change the Startup Type of Quality Windows Audio Video Experience

Quality Windows Audio Video Experience is a native Windows service used to process streaming applications with the help of your home network’s IP address. To avoid getting the Discord JavaScript error, Quality Windows Audio Video Experience should run automatically whenever you turn on your computer. Follow these steps to set it up: Tip: check out these Windows sound schemes that may be a great fit for your PC. Image credit: Pixabay. All screenshots by Natalie dela Vega.