How To Fix Discord stuck on downloading update Mac

Discord getting stuck on “Downloading update” on your Mac can be frustrating, especially when you want to get back to your conversations quickly. This step-by-step guide will walk you through effective ways to resolve this issue, ensuring your Discord app updates smoothly and functions properly.

Check Discord’s Server Status and Internet Connection

1. Verify Discord’s service status:
Visit Discord’s official status page to see if their servers are experiencing problems. If the desktop client or update servers are down, the issue may be on their end, and you may need to wait for a fix.

2. Ensure your internet connection is stable:
Confirm that your Mac is connected to the internet. Try browsing websites or streaming to test connectivity. If you experience issues, toggle Wi-Fi off and back on, restart your router, or switch to a different network if possible.

Restart Your Mac and Discord App

1. Restart your Mac:
A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches affecting your system and apps. Click the Apple logo on the top-left corner, select Restart, and wait for your Mac to reboot.

2. Quit Discord completely:
Make sure Discord is fully closed. Use Command + Q or open the Apple menu and select Force Quit, then choose Discord to terminate all running processes.

Clear Discord Cache and Application Data

1. Clear Discord cache folders:

  • Open Finder, press Shift + Command + G to open “Go to Folder.”
  • Enter ~/Library/Application Support/Discord and delete the contents or the entire Discord folder.
  • Then go to /Library/Application Support/Discord (you may not find it) and delete if present.
    This removes potentially corrupted update files or cache that might be causing the issue.
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Update macOS to the Latest Version

1. Check for macOS updates:
Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. An outdated macOS can sometimes cause compatibility problems with apps like Discord. Updating often fixes underlying system glitches.

Reinstall Discord on Your Mac

1. Remove Discord completely:

  • Quit Discord and ensure no processes are running (use Activity Monitor to confirm).
  • Delete Discord from the Applications folder by dragging it to Trash.
  • Empty the Trash to remove all files.

2. Download the latest Discord installer:
Visit the official Discord website and download the newest macOS version. Install it fresh to replace any corrupt or stuck update files.

Additional Technical Fixes

1. Adjust your DNS settings:
Switch your DNS to Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) in System Settings > Network > Advanced > DNS. Sometimes DNS conflicts can block update communication.

2. Renew your Mac’s IP address:
Go to System Settings > Network > Advanced > TCP/IP and click Renew DHCP Lease to refresh your network connection.


Following these steps in order will help you efficiently fix Discord stuck on downloading update on your Mac, getting you back online with minimal hassle. Always begin by checking Discord’s server status and your internet before moving onto the more advanced fixes like reinstalling the app or clearing cache.