If you're seeing the "A Fatal JavaScript Error Occurred in the Main Process" message when launching Discord, you aren't alone. This error typically triggers when Discord's core files become corrupted during an update or when your system denies the app necessary permissions. Whether you are on Windows 10 or Windows 11, this guide will help you resolve the issue permanently.
Table of Contents
The 1-Minute Quick Fix: End Background Processes
Sometimes the error occurs because a previous instance of Discord is still "hanging" in the background. Before trying complex steps, do this:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Locate all Discord processes.
- Right-click each one and select End Task.
- Try relaunching Discord as an Administrator.
Method 1: Delete Corrupted AppData (Most Successful)
Standard uninstallation often leaves behind corrupted "Roaming" data. Deleting these folders manually is the #1 way to fix JavaScript errors.
- Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
- Type
%appdata%and click OK. - Find the Discord folder and press Delete.
- Press Windows Key + R again, type
%localappdata%, and click OK. - Delete the Discord folder in this directory as well.
- Restart your PC and download a fresh installer from Discord.com.
Method 2: Adjust Administrator Permissions
Ironically, running Discord as an admin can sometimes cause the JavaScript error if your user account configurations are mismatched. Try toggling this setting:
- Right-click the Discord shortcut on your desktop and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Uncheck "Run this program as an administrator" if it's checked (or check it if it’s currently off).
- Click Apply and launch the app.
Method 3: Update Group Policy via CMD
If your system's security policies are blocking Discord's scripts, a quick Command Prompt refresh can help.
- Type cmd in your Windows search bar.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.
- Type the following command and hit Enter:
gpupdate /force - Once the update is complete, restart Discord.
Method 4: Fix for BetterDiscord Users
If you use BetterDiscord, a native Discord update will almost always break the client, resulting in a fatal JavaScript error. Do not just delete Discord!
- Open your BetterDiscord installer.
- Select "Repair BetterDiscord" and choose the version of Discord you are using.
- If that fails, choose "Uninstall BetterDiscord" to revert to the vanilla version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: While similar errors can occur on macOS, the "Main Process" JavaScript error is a Windows-specific bug. Mobile users usually face "App Keeps Crashing" issues, which are fixed by clearing the Google Play Store cache or reinstalling the app from the App Store.
A: Most often, it's a conflict with your Antivirus (like Avast or AVG). These programs sometimes flag Discord's update.exe as a threat. You should add Discord to your Antivirus "Exclusions" list.
A: This means Discord is still running. Use the Task Manager method mentioned above, or restart your computer in Safe Mode to delete the folders.
Summary Comparison: Discord Errors
| Error Type | Common Cause | Primary Fix |
|---|---|---|
| JavaScript Error | Corrupted Cache/Files | Delete %AppData% folder |
| Update Failed Loop | Internet/Firewall | Run as Admin / Check VPN |
| Mobile Crash | Outdated OS/Data | Clear App Cache |
For more official technical documentation, visit the Official Discord Support.