How to Fix Discord “RTC Connecting” Error: A Step-by-Step Guide

rtc connecting error screen

Discord is a widely used communication platform for gamers, streamers, and communities worldwide. Its rich features, including voice and video chat, have made it the go-to app for online collaboration. However, like any complex software, Discord is not without its issues. One such common problem is the “RTC Connecting” error. This error occurs when Discord’s real-time communication (RTC) service fails to connect, leading to issues with voice and video calls.

In this ultimate guide, we will explore in detail how to diagnose and fix the “RTC Connecting” error on Discord. We will cover multiple troubleshooting steps for different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Additionally, we’ll look at potential causes of this error and offer tips on preventing it in the future.

1. Understanding the “RTC Connecting” Error

When you see the message “RTC Connecting” on Discord, it indicates that the app is attempting to establish a connection with its Real-Time Communication (RTC) servers but is encountering difficulties. RTC is crucial for enabling voice and video communications on Discord. Therefore, when this service fails, users experience issues such as:

  • Inability to join voice channels
  • Disconnected calls
  • Poor call quality
  • Failure to send or receive audio/video

Understanding what RTC is and why it might fail to connect is the first step in troubleshooting the issue.

What is RTC?

Real-Time Communication (RTC) refers to technologies that enable live audio and video communication over the internet. Discord uses RTC protocols to deliver voice chat, video calls, and screen sharing. When something goes wrong in the chain—from your device, through your network, to Discord’s servers—the RTC connection might fail.

Why Does RTC Fail?

Several factors may contribute to RTC connection issues, including:

  • Poor or unstable internet connection
  • Incorrect network settings or DNS configuration
  • Conflicts with firewall or antivirus software
  • VPN or proxy settings interfering with traffic
  • Temporary outages or issues on Discord’s end

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to rule out external issues, such as server outages. You can check Discord’s status at Discord Status.

2. Common Causes of the Error

Several common causes can trigger the “RTC Connecting” error on Discord. Knowing these causes can help you target the right solution quickly.

2.1 Internet Connectivity Issues

  • Unstable Connection: An unstable or slow internet connection can prevent Discord from maintaining a stable RTC session.
  • ISP Problems: Sometimes the problem lies with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Network congestion or outages might be affecting your connectivity.

2.2 Firewall and Antivirus Settings

  • Blocked Ports: Firewalls or antivirus software may block necessary ports or protocols required by Discord.
  • Security Software Interference: Aggressive security settings can mistake Discord’s traffic as malicious and block it.

2.3 VPN or Proxy Interference

  • VPN Restrictions: VPNs can sometimes route traffic in a way that causes issues with Discord’s RTC servers.
  • Proxy Servers: Similarly, proxy settings might interfere with Discord’s ability to connect.

2.4 Discord Server Outages

  • Maintenance or Outages: Although rare, Discord’s servers might be temporarily down or under maintenance, leading to connectivity errors.

2.5 Outdated Discord Application

  • Outdated Software: Running an outdated version of Discord might cause compatibility issues with current RTC protocols.
  • Buggy Releases: Occasionally, new releases might have bugs that affect RTC connectivity.

For more on troubleshooting network issues, check out Google’s DNS Help.

3. Preliminary Steps and Basic Troubleshooting

Before trying more advanced solutions, perform these basic troubleshooting steps:

3.1 Restart Discord and Your Device

  • Close Discord Completely: Ensure that Discord is fully closed, not just minimized.
  • Restart Your Computer/Device: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve temporary connectivity issues.

3.2 Check Discord Server Status

  • Visit Discord Status to ensure there are no widespread issues.
  • If there is an outage, wait for Discord to resolve the issue.

3.3 Verify Your Internet Connection

  • Test Other Websites: Open other websites to check if your internet connection is working.
  • Restart Your Router: Power cycle your router by turning it off, waiting 30 seconds, and turning it back on.

4. Advanced Troubleshooting on Windows

Windows users have several additional tools at their disposal for resolving the RTC Connecting error.

4.1 Flushing DNS and Resetting Network Settings

DNS issues can often cause connectivity problems. Flushing your DNS cache might help.

How to Flush DNS on Windows:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    ipconfig /flushdns
  3. After flushing, restart your computer and launch Discord again.

Resetting Network Settings:

  1. In the Command Prompt, run:
    netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
  2. Restart your device.

For more details, visit Microsoft’s Network Troubleshooting Guide.

4.2 Configuring Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus software might block Discord. Adjust your settings as follows:

For Windows Firewall:

  1. Open Control Panel and select System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Locate Discord in the list and ensure both Private and Public networks are checked.
  4. If Discord is not listed, click Allow another app and add Discord manually.

For Antivirus Programs:

  • Open your antivirus settings.
  • Add Discord to the whitelist or trusted applications list.
  • Temporarily disable the antivirus to see if the error resolves, then re-enable it and adjust settings accordingly.

4.3 Updating Network Drivers

Outdated network drivers can affect connectivity:

  1. Open Device Manager (Right-click on Start and select Device Manager).
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click on your active network adapter and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Restart your computer after updating.

5. Advanced Troubleshooting on macOS

Mac users can follow similar steps, tailored to the macOS environment.

5.1 Resetting Network Preferences

Corrupted network preferences can cause connectivity issues:

  1. Open Finder and click Go > Go to Folder.
  2. Type /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ and press Enter.
  3. Locate and delete the following files (make backups first):
    • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
    • com.apple.network.identification.plist
    • com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
    • NetworkInterfaces.plist
    • preferences.plist
  4. Restart your Mac to rebuild these files automatically.

5.2 Configuring Firewall Settings on macOS

  1. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall.
  2. Click Firewall Options.
  3. Ensure that Discord is allowed incoming connections. If not, click the + button and add Discord.

5.3 Updating macOS and Discord

  • macOS Updates: Regular updates can fix bugs that affect network connectivity. Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
  • Discord Updates: Check for updates within the Discord app or download the latest version from the Discord website.

6. Troubleshooting on Mobile Devices

Mobile users may face similar issues, but the troubleshooting process varies slightly.

6.1 Android Troubleshooting Steps

Step-by-Step for Android:

  1. Restart Your Device: A simple reboot can clear temporary issues.
  2. Clear Discord App Cache:
    • Go to Settings > Apps > Discord.
    • Select Storage and tap Clear Cache.
  3. Reset Network Settings:
    • Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
  4. Switch Networks:
    • Try switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa.
  5. Reinstall Discord:

6.2 iOS Troubleshooting Steps

Step-by-Step for iOS:

  1. Restart Your iPhone/iPad: Hold the power button and slide to power off.
  2. Clear App Cache: Although iOS does not allow manual cache clearing, reinstalling the app can achieve a similar effect.
  3. Reset Network Settings:
    • Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
  4. Check VPN Settings: Disable any active VPN or proxy.
  5. Reinstall Discord:
    • Delete the app and reinstall it from the App Store.

7. Preventing Future “RTC Connecting” Issues

After resolving the error, take proactive measures to prevent recurrence.

7.1 Optimize Your Network Settings

  • Use Reliable DNS Providers: Consider using Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1) for more stable resolutions.
  • Regularly Reboot Your Router: This can help maintain a stable connection.
  • Avoid Overloading Your Network: Ensure that multiple high-bandwidth activities do not clog your network.

7.2 Keep Your Software Updated

  • Regular Updates: Always update Discord, your operating system, and drivers.
  • Beta Testing: Consider joining Discord’s beta program to get early access to fixes, but be aware that beta software can sometimes introduce new bugs.

7.3 Use a Wired Connection When Possible

For more stable connectivity, especially during voice and video calls, consider using a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi.

7.4 Maintain a Secure and Clean System

  • Regular Scans: Use antivirus software to scan for malware that might interfere with your network.
  • System Maintenance: Regularly clean up unnecessary files and optimize your system to reduce background interference.

8. External Tools and Resources

Here are some additional resources to help you further troubleshoot and optimize your Discord experience:

9. Conclusion

The “RTC Connecting” error in Discord can be a major disruption, especially when you rely on the platform for voice and video communication. However, with the comprehensive troubleshooting methods detailed in this guide, you can diagnose and resolve the error quickly. Whether it’s flushing your DNS cache, adjusting firewall settings, updating your network drivers, or reconfiguring VPN settings, each step plays a crucial role in restoring your connection.

Key Takeaways:

  • Always start with basic troubleshooting like restarting your device and checking your internet connection.
  • Use advanced techniques like flushing DNS, resetting network settings, and updating software when necessary.
  • For persistent issues, investigate potential interference from firewalls, antivirus software, or VPNs.
  • Ensure your network configuration is optimized by using reliable DNS servers and keeping your system updated.
  • Regular maintenance and proactive measures can help prevent future connectivity issues.

By following the steps in this guide, you can effectively resolve the “RTC Connecting” error and ensure a smooth Discord experience. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, these strategies will help you maintain a stable connection and enjoy uninterrupted communication.

Have you encountered this error before? What steps worked for you? Feel free to share your experience in the comments below. For more tech troubleshooting guides and tips, subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated with the latest solutions.

For further reading and advanced networking tips, consider visiting: