Discord ICE Checking Error: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
ICE Checking
Brand
Discord
Product Type
game_platform
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
The Discord ICE Checking error appears when your voice connection gets stuck during the initial handshake process. This happens when Discord can't establish a proper connection through your network's NAT (Network Address Translation), preventing you from joining voice channels.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code ICE Checking

  1. Check Discord Server Status

  2. Switch Voice Server Region

  3. Reset Voice Settings

  4. Flush DNS and Reset Network

    Make sure to save any important work before restarting your computer

  5. Configure Router Port Forwarding

    Only change router settings if you understand networking basics, as incorrect settings can affect internet connectivity

  6. Disable VPN and Proxy Services

  7. Update Network Drivers

  8. Try Discord Web Browser Version

    Back up any local Discord settings before uninstalling the desktop app
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When to Call a Professional

Contact your Internet Service Provider if the issue persists after trying all steps, as it may be related to your network configuration or NAT type that requires professional network troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ICE Checking mean in Discord?
ICE (Interactive Connectivity Establishment) Checking means Discord is trying to establish a voice connection through your network's NAT. When it gets stuck, it indicates problems with network connectivity or firewall restrictions blocking the connection process.
Why does Discord ICE Checking happen?
This error typically occurs due to strict NAT settings, firewall restrictions, VPN interference, or network configuration issues that prevent Discord from properly establishing peer-to-peer voice connections through your router.
Can I fix Discord ICE Checking without changing router settings?
Yes, try switching voice regions, resetting Discord voice settings, disabling VPN services, and using Discord in a web browser first. These solutions often resolve the issue without requiring router configuration changes.
Does Discord ICE Checking affect text chat?
No, ICE Checking only affects voice and video connections. Text chat, file sharing, and other Discord features will continue working normally while experiencing this voice connection error.
How long should I wait during ICE Checking?
If Discord shows ICE Checking for more than 30-60 seconds, it's likely stuck and won't resolve on its own. Disconnect from voice and try the troubleshooting steps rather than waiting longer.

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