How to Fix “A JavaScript Error Occurred in the Main Process” Error on Discord

Encountering a “JavaScript error in the main process” while launching Discord can be frustrating. It disrupts your experience and keeps you from connecting with friends or communities seamlessly.

Thankfully, fixing this issue is straightforward if you follow the right steps. This guide will walk you through the most effective solutions to resolve this error and get Discord running smoothly again.

1 About the Problem

The “A JavaScript error occurred in the main process” message typically appears due to corrupted Discord files, insufficient permissions, or interference by other software, such as antivirus programs.

This error prevents Discord from launching correctly and can appear on both Windows and Linux systems. By identifying and addressing the root cause, you can restore Discord’s functionality.

Not only on discord, but people are facing on many other apps as well as you can see people complaining from the reddit;

Hi, my computer is saying there’s an JavaScript error and it slows down my computer to, what do I do
byu/Wild-Schedule6236 incomputerhelp

Below are step-by-step methods to help you fix this issue. Try each solution in order until the problem is resolved.

2 For Windows Users

2.1 Method #1: Close Discord Completely

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. End Discord Processes: Find any running Discord processes and Right-click on each and select End Task.
3. Verify Closure: Ensure no Discord processes are left running before proceeding.

2.2 Method #2: Delete Discord’s AppData and LocalAppData Folders

1. Open the Run Dialog: Press Windows + R, type %appdata%, and press Enter.
2. Remove AppData Folder: Locate the Discord folder and delete it.
3. Clear LocalAppData Folder: Press Windows + R again, type %localappdata%, and press Enter. Delete the Discord folder in this directory as well.

This clears any corrupted files that might be causing the error.

2.3 Method #3: Reinstall Discord

1. Uninstall Discord: Open Settings > Apps, find Discord, and uninstall it.
2. Download the Latest Version: Visit the official Discord website and download the latest installer.
3. Install Discord: Run the installer and complete the setup process.

2.4 Method #4: Run Discord as Administrator

1. Right-Click Discord Shortcut: On your desktop or Start menu, locate the Discord shortcut. Right-click and select Run as administrator.
2. Set Administrator Mode Permanently (Optional): Right-click the shortcut, choose Properties, and go to the Shortcut tab. Click Advanced, check the box for Run as administrator, and click OK.

2.5 Method #5: Check for Antivirus Interference

1. Temporarily Disable Antivirus: Disable your antivirus software and try launching Discord.
2. Allow Discord in Antivirus: Add Discord’s executable file to your antivirus’ exceptions or allowlist if it works after disabling the antivirus.

Antivirus programs sometimes block Discord, resulting in errors.

2.6 Method #6: Update Group Policy (Windows Only)

1. Open Command Prompt: Run Command Prompt as administrator (search cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
2. Force Update Group Policies: Type gpupdate /force and press Enter.
3. Reboot and Test: Restart your system and check if Discord works.

2.7 Method #7 (Optional): Start Quality Windows Audio Video Experience Service

1. Access Services: Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate the Service: Find Quality Windows Audio Video Experience in the list.
3. Start the Service: Right-click the service, choose Properties, set the Startup type to Automatic, and click Start.
4. Apply Changes: Click Apply > OK and test Discord.

3 For Linux Users

1. Locate Discord’s Directory: Navigate to the Discord installation directory.
2. Delete Node Modules: Remove the node_modules folder.
3. Reinstall Modules: Run the npm install command in the terminal.
4. Launch Discord: Try opening Discord again.

This resolves issues caused by missing dependencies in Linux setups.

4 Frequently Asked Questions

4.1 What Causes a JavaScript Error in Discord?

This error typically occurs due to corrupted files, insufficient permissions, or interference from antivirus software.

4.2 Is It Safe to Delete Discord’s AppData and LocalAppData Folders?

Yes, it is safe. These folders store temporary data, which will be recreated automatically when you restart Discord.

4.3 Does Running Discord as Administrator Help?

Yes, running Discord with admin privileges can resolve permission-related issues.

4.4 What If Reinstalling Discord Doesn’t Work?

Try disabling your antivirus or running the Group Policy update command (gpupdate /force) for advanced troubleshooting.

4.5 Can This Issue Occur on Linux Too?

Yes, Linux users might encounter this error. Deleting the node_modules folder and reinstalling modules can fix this problem.

4.6 Why Does Antivirus Interfere with Discord?

Some antivirus software incorrectly flags Discord files, blocking them and causing JavaScript errors. Adding Discord to the allowlist can resolve this.

5 Conclusion

Resolving the “A JavaScript error occurred in the main process” issue on Discord is usually straightforward. Start by closing Discord completely, clearing its temporary folders, or reinstalling it. If these basic fixes don’t work, try running Discord as an administrator or checking for antivirus interference.

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to eliminate this error and enjoy seamless use of Discord again. Share this guide with others if they experience the same problem, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Discord support if all else fails.