With over 150 million active users, Discord has become the go-to gathering place for vibrant online communities. But even the liveliest servers sometimes need to be laid to rest.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll give you all the information you need to permanently delete a Discord server with confidence. Whether you‘ve grown tired of a community or just want to tidy up, we‘ll explain when and why to remove a server plus walk through the deletion process step-by-step.
Overview: The Rise of Discord and Managing Your Servers
Since launching in 2015, Discord has grown exponentially, especially among gamers and younger users. The platform makes it easy to create servers around any topic. But with great power comes great responsibility.
Running a successful Discord server takes moderation, energy, and constantly nurturing your community. Before deleting, consider these alternatives:
Pros of Deleting a Server
- Wipe the slate completely clean
- Break away from a dysfunctional/toxic community
- Start fresh when a reboot is needed
Cons of Deleting a Server
- Permanently erases all messages and data
- Can feel drastic compared to banning or deleting individual users/channels
- Disbands community you may have built over time
Sometimes it‘s healthiest to simply move on. But deletion should not be your first solution. Experienced moderators emphasize only removing a server when all other options have been exhausted.
Now let‘s go through how to delete a Discord server from both desktop and mobile step-by-step.
Delete a Discord Server from Desktop Browser
Deleting a Discord server through the desktop website is a straightforward process – if you know where to click. Follow these failproof steps:
Step 1: Navigate to Discord.com and Log In
Pull up discord.com in your Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or preferred browser. Click "Open Discord" and enter your credentials to log in.
Complete any captcha or challenge to prove you‘re not a sneaky bot.
Step 2: Locate and Select Your Server
On the left sidebar you‘ll see your full server list. Click through folders if needed and select the server you want to delete.
This opens the server so you can access its settings.
Step 3: Access Your Server Settings
Click the drop down arrow next to your server‘s name at the top of the screen. Select "Server Settings" from the menu.
This opens your admin settings dashboard.
Step 4: Scroll to "Delete Server"
On the left sidebar you‘ll see over a dozen sections. Scroll allll the way to the bottom and find the "Delete Server" option.
This only appears for server owners. Click it!
Step 5: Confirm Permanent Deletion
A red "Delete Server" button will appear. Type in your server‘s exact name and click the button to confirm.
This permanently deletes the server and all its data immediately. Be 100% sure before proceeding!
And that‘s it – your server will vanish instantly. Next we‘ll review how to delete servers from mobile.
Removing Discord Servers on Mobile
Thankfully, deleting servers is just as straightforward in the Discord mobile app. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Open the Discord App and Log In
Launch the Discord app on your iPhone, Android, or iPad. Tap to log in with your email, phone, or social account.
Step 2: Locate the Server to Remove
Tap the server list button on the left sidebar. Browse your servers and long press the one you want to delete.
Step 3: Access "More Options" and Server Settings
Tap the "More Options" menu that pops up. Then click the settings icon on the right.
Step 4: Find "Delete Server" Under Overview
At the top, choose "Overview" from the server settings menu. Scroll down to the bottom and tap "Delete Server."
Step 5: Confirm Deletion
Type in your server name exactly and tap "Yes" to confirm permanent deletion.
That‘s all it takes to delete a Discord server from mobile in just 5 quick steps!
Desktop vs Mobile Discord Server Deletion:
| Desktop Browser | Mobile App | |
|---|---|---|
| Accessing Server Settings | Dropdown menu | Long press then "More Options" |
| Location of Delete Option | Bottom of left sidebar | Bottom of Overview section |
| Confirmation Needed | Type server name | Tap "Yes" |
Avoid Common Discord Server Deletion Mistakes
Deleting a beloved server by accident would be devastating. Avoid these mistakes:
- Double check you selected the correct server before deletion!
- Only delete from devices where you‘re logged into the account that created the server.
- Read all prompts carefully and type the server name precisely.
- If you have second thoughts, immediately close the tab/app before confirming.
With great power comes great responsibility. Server deletion is permanent – treat it with care!
When Is It Time to Delete Your Discord Server?
Discord experts say a server should only be deleted as an absolute last resort. But if these signs sound familiar, it may be time to move on:
- Activity and conversations have completely stalled. Only tumbleweeds remain.
- Toxicity is overflowing and you‘ve exhausted all other moderation options.
- Keeping up with mod tasks feels like a chore rather than fun hobby.
- You‘ve drifted away from the community‘s purpose and passions.
Maintaining a vibrant server takes effort. There‘s no shame in deciding to walk away. Focus that energy into new communities that better align with who you are today.
In Conclusion
Discord makes managing communities a breeze. With this simple 5-step guide, you can now cleanly delete servers that have run their course.
We covered all you need to know about when and why to delete a server, step-by-step deletion instructions for desktop and mobile, common mistakes to avoid, and signs it‘s time to move on.
Just be 100% certain before pulling the trigger, since deletion is forever. We hope this guide gives you the knowledge to make the right decision for your communities. Happy discord-ing!
