Discord has carved out its niche as a pivotal communication tool for gamers, communities, and various interest groups. With features like voice calls, video chats, and text messaging, it’s crucial that users are able to utilize these functionalities seamlessly. However, when Discord calls stop working, it can lead to frustration and disrupted communication. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore common issues you may encounter with Discord calls, as well as effective troubleshooting steps to resolve them.
Understanding Discord Call Issues
When users report that their Discord calls are not functioning correctly, the problems can stem from a variety of sources. Understanding these sources is the first step toward resolution. Here are some common reasons why Discord calls might not work:
1. Internet Connectivity Problems
One of the most frequent causes of call issues on Discord is a poor internet connection. If your connection is unstable, it can lead to interrupted calls, choppy audio, or complete disconnection.
2. Audio Settings Misconfigurations
Incorrect audio settings or configurations can hinder your call experience. If your microphone or speakers aren’t set up correctly, you may not be heard, or you might hear others poorly.
3. Discord Application Glitches
Sometimes, the app itself may be the source of the problem. Bugs or temporary glitches can affect call functionalities, hindering your experience.
4. Firewalls and Security Software
Firewalls or security software can block the necessary ports and connections that Discord relies on, leading to issues with voice and video calls.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Methods
Here, we delve into specific steps you can take to troubleshoot your Discord call issues effectively.
Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
A reliable internet connection is the backbone of any online communication tool. To determine if your connection is causing issues, conduct a speed test.
- Use a wired connection if possible. Ethernet connections are generally more stable than Wi-Fi.
- Reset your modem and router to refresh your network connection.
Step 2: Inspect Discord’s Voice Settings
Incorrect audio configurations can lead to muted calls. Check the following:
Microphone Settings
- Open User Settings (the gear icon located at the bottom left corner of Discord).
- Navigate to Voice & Video.
- Check if the correct microphone is selected. Test your microphone by speaking into it and observing the input sensitivity bar.
Output Device Settings
- In the same menu, ensure that the correct output device is selected. Adjust the volume slider to ensure it is at a reasonable level.
- Check the Input Mode, setting it to Voice Activity or Push to Talk as per your preference.
Step 3: Update Discord
Ensure that you are running the latest version of Discord, as updates often include bug fixes and improved functionalities. You can check for updates by simply closing and reopening the app. If an update is available, Discord will automatically download it.
Step 4: Restart the Application
Sometimes, simply restarting Discord can resolve the issue. Close the app completely and reopen it to see if the call functionality has improved.
Step 5: Disable Quality of Service High Packet Priority
While Quality of Service can improve your call quality, it sometimes causes issues. Disabling it may solve your problem.
- Go back to Voice & Video settings.
- Scroll down to the Advanced section, and toggle off the Enable Quality of Service High Packet Priority option.
Step 6: Check for System Updates
Make sure your operating system is up-to-date. System glitches can affect how applications, including Discord, function. Check the following:
- Windows: Go to **Settings** > **Update & Security** > **Windows Update** and check for available updates.
- Mac: Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner and select **Software Update**.
Step 7: Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Since firewalls can block Discord, ensure that it is whitelisted:
For Windows Firewall:
- Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Find Discord in the list and enable both Private and Public access.
For Antivirus Software:
Consult your antivirus software’s documentation to allow Discord through its firewall or to add it as an exception in the settings.
Alternative Solutions If the Problem Persists
If the above steps do not resolve your issue, consider the following alternatives:
1. Use Discord Web Version
Switching to the web version of Discord may bypass issues related to the desktop app. Visit Discord’s official website and log in to see if calls work through a different browser.
2. Reinstall Discord
Should all else fail, a fresh install of Discord can resolve persistent issues stemming from corrupted files or settings.
- First, uninstall Discord from your device.
- Download the latest version from the official Discord website and install it.
3. Contact Discord Support
If you have exhausted all options, consider reaching out to Discord’s support team for assistance. They may be able to provide insights related to your specific issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, encountering issues with Discord calls can be a hindrance, but understanding the cause and applying the appropriate troubleshooting steps can help you restore your communication capabilities with minimal hassle. From ensuring a stable internet connection to meticulously checking audio settings, a systematic approach can often yield positive results. Remember, technology can be unpredictable, but with patience and persistence, you can resolve most issues. By keeping your Discord application updated and your system settings optimized, you can enjoy an uninterrupted calling experience for your gaming sessions, group chats, or any other online gatherings. Stay connected and happy chatting on Discord!
What should I do if I can’t hear anyone during a Discord call?
If you can’t hear anyone, first check your audio settings in Discord. Open the User Settings by clicking the gear icon near your username. Navigate to the “Voice & Video” section and ensure that your output device is set correctly. Test the output volume and make sure it’s not muted. Also, check the hardware by trying different headphones or speakers to rule out any equipment issues.
If everything looks correct in Discord, examine your computer’s sound settings. Make sure the volume is up and nothing is muted at the operating system level. Restart both Discord and your computer if necessary, as this can resolve minor glitches that may be hindering your audio output during calls.
Why can’t I speak during a Discord call?
If you’re unable to communicate during a call, start by checking your microphone settings in Discord. Go to User Settings and select “Voice & Video.” Ensure your microphone device is selected and not muted. You can also perform a microphone test in this section to see if it’s working. If it doesn’t register your voice, consider switching to a different microphone or port.
Another thing to check is the permissions for your microphone in your operating system. Make sure that Discord has permission to use your mic. Also, examine the roles and permissions in the server settings to ensure that your user account isn’t restricted from speaking in that particular channel.
What can I do if Discord keeps disconnecting during calls?
If you experience frequent disconnects during calls, start by evaluating your internet connection. A weak or unstable internet connection can be a primary cause of disconnections. Run a speed test to check your internet speed and stability. If you notice any issues, try resetting your router or connecting via a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for better reliability.
You should also consider adjusting Discord’s server region settings. Sometimes, being connected to a server that is geographically distant from you can cause lags and disconnects. You can change the server region in the server settings if you have the right permissions. Additionally, disabling any VPNs or proxies can improve your connection to Discord servers.
How can I fix lag during Discord calls?
Lagging during calls can be frustrating, but several steps can help improve performance. Start by closing any bandwidth-heavy applications running on your computer, such as streaming services or large downloads, as they can significantly affect your call quality. Additionally, try lowering your Discord video settings or disabling video altogether if you are using it.
If your connection still lags, check for network congestion. Make sure that no one else on your network is using a lot of bandwidth. Using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi, if possible, can also alleviate lag. If problems persist, consider reaching out to your ISP or checking if there are any outages in your area that may be affecting your internet speed.
Why can’t I join a call on Discord?
If you’re having trouble joining a call, the first thing to verify is your internet connection, as a weak connection can prevent you from connecting properly. Make sure you’re connected to the internet and consider resetting your router if there are any connection issues. Also, check if the server is online and whether other users are experiencing the same problem.
It’s also essential to ensure that you have the proper permissions for the voice channel you’re trying to enter. Depending on your role within the server, you might be restricted from joining certain channels. If you suspect this may be the case, reach out to a server admin to verify your permissions and ask if any restrictions apply to your account.
What should I do if I encounter ‘No Route’ error on Discord calls?
The ‘No Route’ error on Discord typically indicates that the application cannot connect to the server due to network issues. Start by checking your internet connection to ensure it’s stable and active. Restart your router or modem to refresh the connection, and try disabling any VPNs or firewalls that may be blocking Discord’s connection. This might resolve the issue quickly.
If restarting your network doesn’t help, verify your Discord settings. Go to User Settings, then to “Voice & Video,” and try changing your input/output devices. Furthermore, adjusting your server region in the server settings can sometimes alleviate connectivity issues. If the error persists, consider reinstalling Discord to fix potential corrupted files or settings.