Discord is a hugely popular platform for communities of all shapes and sizes, from gaming groups and study circles to fan clubs and professional networks. Joining a Discord server opens up a world of communication, collaboration, and connection with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re brand new to Discord or just looking to expand your server list, understanding how to join a server is your first step into engaging with these vibrant online communities.
Primarily, joining a Discord server requires an invite. Think of it as a digital key to enter a specific community’s space. These invites can be sent directly to you by server members or be available publicly on websites or social media platforms. While invite links are the most common method, Discord also offers a server discovery feature for those looking to explore public communities.
This guide will walk you through the straightforward processes of joining a Discord server on both your computer and mobile device, ensuring you can connect with your desired communities no matter where you are.
Joining a Discord Server on Your Computer: Step-by-Step
Accessing Discord servers on your computer is simple and intuitive, whether you’re using the desktop application or the web browser version. Here’s how to get connected:
1. Launch Discord and Log In:
First things first, open the Discord application on your computer. If you don’t have the app, you can also access Discord through your web browser by going to the Discord website. Log in using your account credentials. If you’re new to Discord, you’ll need to create an account.
2. Locate the “Add a Server” Icon:
Once you’re logged in, look at the server sidebar on the left side of your Discord interface. At the bottom of this list of servers (or where the list would be if you haven’t joined any yet), you’ll see a “+” icon, typically located at the bottom of the server list. This is the “Add a Server” button. Click on this plus sign.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
3. Choose “Join a Server”:
After clicking the “+” icon, a pop-up window will appear presenting two options: “Create a server” and “Join a Server”. Select the “Join a Server” option. This indicates you want to join an existing community, not create a new one.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
4. Paste the Invite Link and Join:
A text field will now appear, prompting you to “Enter Invite Link”. This is where you need to paste the Discord server invite link you’ve received. Invite links are unique URLs provided by server administrators or members. Once you’ve pasted the link into the field, click the “Join Server” button.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
Upon clicking “Join Server,” you’ll be instantly connected to the Discord server. It will now appear in your server list on the left sidebar, and you can start exploring channels and engaging with the community.
Joining a Discord Server on Your Mobile Device: Quick Steps
Joining servers on the Discord mobile app is just as straightforward as on desktop, ensuring you can stay connected on the go. Follow these steps on your smartphone or tablet:
1. Open the Discord App and Log In:
Launch the Discord application on your mobile device. If you don’t have it installed, download it from your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). Log in to your Discord account.
2. Access the Server Menu:
Once logged in, if you’re already viewing a server or channel, look for the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) icon, usually located in the top-left corner of your screen. Tap this icon to open the server menu.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
3. Tap the “+” Icon:
In the server menu that slides out from the left, you’ll see a list of your current servers, if any. Similar to the desktop version, look for the “+” icon, usually at the bottom of this server list. Tap this “+” sign.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
4. Select “Join a Server”:
Just like on desktop, you’ll be presented with “Create Server” and “Join a Server” options. Tap on “Join a Server” to proceed.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
5. Enter the Invite Link and Tap “Join”:
You’ll see the “Invite Link” prompt. Paste the Discord server invite link into the provided field. After pasting, tap the “Join” button, which is typically located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
Add a Server Icon Location on Discord Desktop
Upon tapping “Join,” you’ll be connected to the server and it will appear in your server list in the mobile app. You can then start participating in the server’s channels.
Exploring Public Servers Through the Server Directory
While most Discord servers are accessed via invites, Discord also features a server directory for discovering public communities. This is a great way to find servers based on interests or topics without needing a direct invite link.
Using the Server Directory on Desktop:
- In the Discord desktop app, locate the compass icon or search icon in the server sidebar on the left. This icon is usually positioned below the “Add a Server” (+) button.
- Clicking this icon will open the Server Directory or Server Discovery page.
- Here, you can browse featured communities, search for servers using keywords, or explore categories based on your interests.
- Once you find a server that looks interesting, simply click on it and then select “Join” or “Join Server” to become a member.
Note: The availability and features of the Server Directory can vary as Discord updates its platform. Not all servers are public or listed in the directory, so invite links remain the most common way to join specific communities.
Final Thoughts
Joining a Discord server is usually a quick and easy process, primarily done through invite links. Whether you are on your computer or mobile device, following these steps will get you connected to your desired Discord communities in no time. Start exploring, engaging, and making the most of the diverse communities Discord has to offer!
