How to Download Discord, Create an Account, and Log In

Discord works in a desktop app, mobile app, or supported web browser. To get started safely, download it only from Discord or an official app store, create an account with an email address you control, and verify that address before joining servers.

Download or open Discord

• Windows, macOS, or Linux: Visit the official Discord download page and choose the version for your operating system.
• Android or iPhone/iPad: Follow the store link from the official download page, or search for Discord in Google Play or the Apple App Store and check that the publisher is Discord Inc.
• No installation: Open Discord in a browser. The browser client provides the main chat and server features without a desktop installation.

On Windows or macOS, open the downloaded installer and follow the prompts. Administrator access is not normally required unless the computer's policies demand it. On a managed work or school device, ask the administrator before installing software.

Create and verify a Discord account

1. Open Discord and select Register, or use the registration option on the browser login page.
2. Enter an email address you can keep, a display name or username, a strong unique password, and your date of birth.
3. Complete the CAPTCHA if Discord requests one, then submit the form.
4. Open the verification message Discord sends to your email address and select Verify Email. Check the spam folder or request another message from the banner in Discord if it does not arrive.

Email verification helps protect access to the account and may be required by some servers. Discord can also request phone verification in certain circumstances; enter a phone number only inside the official app or discord.com.

Log in on desktop, browser, or mobile

On the login screen, enter the email address associated with your account—or a verified phone number—followed by your password. Complete any multi-factor authentication challenge you have enabled.

Use a QR code on desktop

If you are already signed in on the Discord mobile app, you can scan the QR code shown on the desktop or browser login screen. Open the mobile app's QR scanner, scan the code, review the requested login, and approve it.

Security warning: Never scan a Discord QR code sent by another person, and never approve a login you did not start. A malicious QR code can authorize access to your account.

Secure the account before joining servers

• Use a unique password rather than reusing one from email, gaming, or social accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication or a passkey in User Settings > My Account, and store backup codes somewhere safe.
• Do not share verification codes, backup codes, or login tokens. Discord staff and legitimate server moderators do not need them.
• Review server invites before accepting them, and be cautious with unexpected files, bot messages, and “free gift” links.

What to do after signing in

You can join a server with a valid invitation, create your own server, send direct messages, and use text, voice, or video channels according to each server's permissions. Once you are comfortable with the basics, try Discord's built-in activities for friends or review popular server bots before adding third-party automation.

If login fails, confirm that the email address is correct, use Forgot your password? on the official login page, and check your inbox. Avoid third-party “account recovery” services.