If Discord keeps getting stuck on “RTC Connecting” or shows a No Route error, you’re not alone. This issue happens when Discord can’t create a stable voice connection between your device and the server. The good news? It’s almost always fixable — even if you’re not a tech expert.
This guide breaks down every working solution, from simple quick fixes to advanced network-level settings. Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, or using the browser version, this article helps you solve the Discord RTC Connecting Error step by step.
What Causes the Discord RTC Connecting Error?
Discord’s voice system relies on WebRTC, a technology that needs:
- A stable internet connection
- Open network ports
- Correct DNS
- No VPN or firewall blocking it
When something interrupts that process, you see:
- RTC Connecting…
- No Route
- ICE Checking/ICE Failed
Let’s fix it.
Quick Fixes (Beginner-Friendly)
These solve the issue for most users.
1. Restart Discord Completely
Don’t just close the window — fully stop the app.
Windows:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Open Task Manager
- End all “Discord.exe” tasks
- Restart Discord
Mac:
Press Command + Option + Esc, select Discord, and click Force Quit.
2. Restart Your Device & Router
A fresh network handshake fixes 50% of RTC errors.
Steps:
- Turn off your PC
- Unplug your router/modem for 30 seconds
- Plug it back in
- Restart your PC and open Discord again
3. Check Your Internet Connection
Test your network by:
- Visiting any website
- Running a speed test
- Switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet
If other apps are slow, the issue may be your connection — not Discord.
4. Check Discord Server Status
Sometimes the problem isn’t you!
Go to: discordstatus.com
If voice servers are down, you must wait.
5. Change the Server Region in Discord
Critical for voice channels with connection issues.
- Right-click your server name.
- Go to Server Settings → Overview
- Change the Voice Region
Try:
- US East
- US West
- Europe
- Singapore
Advanced Fixes (For Persistent RTC Connecting Errors)
If you still see “RTC Connecting,” continue below.
6. Disable Your VPN or Antivirus
VPNs often block or reroute WebRTC traffic.
Try turning off:
- VPN apps
- Antivirus firewalls
- Network protection modules
Then reopen Discord.
7. Update Your Network Drivers (Windows)
Outdated drivers cause packet loss and failed RTC handshakes.
- Right-click Start → Device Manager
- Expand Network adapters
- Right-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter
- Select Update driver
- Click Search automatically for drivers
Restart after the update.
8. Change Your DNS to Google or Cloudflare
Bad DNS = failed connection routing.
Google DNS
- 8.8.8.8
- 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS
- 1.1.1.1
- 1.0.0.1
How to change DNS:
- Windows Settings → Network & Internet
- Select your network
- Edit DNS
- Choose Manual
- Enter the new values
Restart Discord afterward.
9. Disable QoS High Packet Priority
This setting sounds helpful, but it breaks networks that don’t support QoS.
Steps:
- Open Discord
- Go to User Settings → Voice & Video
- Scroll down
- Turn off “Enable Quality of Service High Packet Priority”
Restart Discord.
10. Change Discord Audio Subsystem
Some systems don’t work well with the default subsystem.
- Go to User Settings → Voice & Video
- Find Audio Subsystem
- Change from Standard to Legacy or Experimental
- Restart Discord
11. Reset Your Network Settings
Last resort for network configuration problems.
Windows
- Settings → Network & Internet
- Advanced network settings
- Network reset
After rebooting, reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
12. Flush DNS & Reset Winsock (Windows CMD Fix)
Run these commands as Administrator:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
Restart your PC afterward.
13. Try a Different Browser (Discord Web Version)
If the issue only happens on the browser Discord:
- Try Chrome
- Try Edge
- Try Firefox
Some browsers block WebRTC more aggressively.
14. Clear Discord Cache (Desktop App)
This removes corrupted local files.
Windows:
- Press Win + R
- Type:
%appdata%/discord/Cache - Delete all files
Mac:~/Library/Application Support/discord/Cache
Restart Discord afterward.
If Nothing Works
You may be on:
- A school network
- A university network
- A work network
These networks block voice & WebRTC traffic.
Solution:
Use mobile data or a personal hotspot to test.
If it works, your network admin has blocked Discord.
FAQ — Discord RTC Connecting Error
Why does Discord get stuck on RTC Connecting?
Most commonly:
- Bad DNS
- VPN interference
- Blocked ports
- Router issues
- Corrupted cache
Does reinstalling Discord fix No Route?
Sometimes, but it’s better to try:
- DNS changes
- Driver updates
- QoS disabling
Can a firewall cause RTC errors?
Yes — firewalls often block WebRTC packets.
Final Thoughts
The Discord RTC Connecting Error is frustrating but almost always fixable. Start with simple steps — restarting Discord and your router — then move through the advanced solutions like DNS changes, disabling QoS, and updating drivers. By the end of this guide, most users will get their voice chat working again without needing professional help.
