Products
Features
Games
Blog
Pricing

Knowledge

Is Discord Blocked in Russia?

Last Update: 10/16/2024

Yes, Discord is currently blocked in Russia!

As one of the most popular communication platforms among gamers and communities, Discord has significantly changed the way we communicate and collaborate online. However, recent events have raised questions about its availability in Russia. With reports of server issues and increased government control over digital communication, many users are wondering whether Discord could face blocking in the country. This article looks at the current status of Discord in Russia, the reasons for connection issues, and possible solutions for users.

is discord banned in russia

Part 1. Is Discord Blocked in Russia: Player Reports

Part 2. How do I get around Discord ban?

Part 3. What are some alternatives to Discord?

Part 4. How to update Discord?

Part 1. Is Discord Blocked in Russia: Player Reports

Discord was recently blocked in Russia, sparking significant discussion and concern among users, especially on platforms like Reddit. Here's a summary of the key points and reactions from a Reddit thread on the matter:

User Experience: Many users have reported needing to use a VPN to access Discord, with varying levels of success. Some can use it on mobile devices with a VPN, while others find that even a VPN is not enough to access Discord servers or engage in voice communications.
Technical workarounds: Suggestions such as using tools like GoodbyeDPI for text communication have been discussed, although there are limitations for voice channels requiring more complex solutions such as VPNs.
Reasons for the block: The exact reasons for the block are not entirely clear, with speculation ranging from the Russian government's desire to control online platforms to concerns that Discord is being used to coordinate activities that the government wants to control or restrict.
Alternatives and adaptations: Users are considering or switching to other platforms such as Telegram and WhatsApp, although these platforms may face similar problems in Russia. Some are discussing switching to lesser-known platforms such as Guilded or Revolt.
Impact on the Community: The ban has had a noticeable impact on communities, especially gaming and modding communities that rely heavily on Discord for communication.
Government action: There is a broader context of increasing internet censorship in Russia, with access to various online services being blocked or restricted.

This situation reflects current tensions and challenges in internet governance in Russia, which affect how users connect and communicate online, particularly in the gaming and tech communities.

Part 2. How do I get around Discord ban?

If you're trying to bypass a Discord ban in Russia, here are a few methods that might help you regain access, taking into account the legality and potential risks:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN):

Using a VPN: This is the most secure method. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in a country where Discord is not blocked. Choose a VPN provider known for its ability to bypass Russian censorship.

2. Proxy servers:

Web proxies: These may be less secure than VPNs, but they are easy to use. You can access Discord using web proxy services. However, they may not encrypt your traffic like a VPN.
SOCKS5 Proxy: Can be more efficient than standard HTTP proxies, especially for applications like Discord that involve more than just browsing.

3. Tor Browser:

Tor: Provides anonymity and can bypass network restrictions by routing your connection through multiple nodes around the world. However, using Discord over Tor may result in slower performance.

4. DNS over HTTPS (DoH):

Set up DoH: Switching to DNS services that support DNS over HTTPS, such as those provided by Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (8.8.8.8), can help bypass DNS-based blocking.

5. Shadowsocks:

Shadowsocks: This is an open source encrypted proxy project that is more responsive than VPNs under certain network conditions, such as the DPI (deep packet inspection) used in Russia. It is especially useful for bypassing severe internet restrictions.

6. Mobile data:

Switch to mobile data: If the block only affects your internet service provider, using mobile data may provide an alternative access route, although this may not be feasible if mobile networks are also blocking.

7. VPN router:

Set up a VPN on your router: This allows devices to connect to the internet via a VPN by default, effectively covering all devices in your home without having to configure each one individually.

8. Use the web version:

Accessing Discord through its web interface at discord.com via a browser that supports VPN extensions or secure proxy configurations can also provide access without the need for a desktop app connection.

Note: Always consider the legal implications of bypassing internet restrictions in your jurisdiction. Russia has strict laws regarding internet use, and bypassing official blocks can be risky. It is important to be aware of local regulations and use these tools responsibly.

Part 3. What are some alternatives to Discord?

Here are some Discord alternatives that users can consider for communication and community building:

Slack - Often used for work communication, Slack also supports community groups with features like channels, direct messages, and integration with a variety of productivity tools.
Teamspeak - An experienced player in the world of voice communication platforms, Teamspeak offers robust voice chat capabilities primarily aimed at gamers.
Guilded - A direct competitor to Discord, Guilded offers many of the same features, such as servers, voice/video chat, and integrated calendars, with additional functionality aimed at gamers.
Element (formerly Riot) - Based on the open source Matrix project, Element offers end-to-end encryption and is designed for building private and public communities.
Telegram - Known for its strong encryption and privacy features, Telegram offers large group messaging, voice calling, and extensive bot capabilities.
Mumble - An open source voice chat software, Mumble is known for its low latency voice chat, making it suitable for gaming and professional environments.
Microsoft Teams - Although primarily a business communication tool, Teams offers extensive chat, voice, and video conferencing capabilities that can also serve as a community building tool.
Ventrilo - Similar to Teamspeak, Ventrilo provides voice communication solutions with minimal resource usage.
Zulip - An open source chat app, Zulip is designed to improve productivity with features like threaded discussions and good integration with various development tools.
Signal - While primarily a secure messenger for individual use, Signal offers group, voice, and video calling, known for its strong end-to-end encryption.

Each of these platforms has unique features that can make them suitable Discord alternatives depending on the specific needs of the user or community.

Part 4. How to update Discord?

To check for updates on Discord and ensure your app is up to date, you can follow these steps depending on the platform you're using:

For Desktop (Windows and Mac)

Open Discord: Start by opening the Discord app on your computer.
Automatically check for updates: Discord automatically checks for updates when you open the app. If an update is available, Discord will automatically download and apply it.
Restart if necessary: If Discord downloads an update, it will usually prompt you to restart the app to apply the update. Make sure you back up any important information before restarting.
Manual Restart: If you suspect that an update has not been applied, try restarting Discord. To do this, close the app completely (make sure it is not minimized to the system tray) and then reopen it. Discord will check for updates when you restart.

For web browser

Refresh the page: Simply refresh the Discord tab in your browser. Since the web version of Discord is server-based, updates are applied automatically and do not require manual action from the user. A simple refresh of the page ensures that you are using the latest version.

For mobile devices (iOS and Android)

Visit the App Store or Google Play Store: Open the store app on your mobile device.
Find Discord: Use the search feature to find the Discord app.
Update if available: If an update is available, you'll see an "Update" button. Click this button to begin updating Discord. If you only see "Open" or "Installed," you're already on the latest version.
Automatic Updates: Make sure your device settings are set to automatically update apps. This setting can usually be found in the Store app settings on your device.

General tips

Internet connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection to download updates.
Permissions: Sometimes updates may require new permissions. Check for any requests that require your approval.
Checking the version: You can check your current version of Discord by looking for the Help or About section in the app settings. This will help you confirm that your app is up to date.

Conclusion

With Discord currently blocked in Russia!, users are facing significant challenges that could impact their access to the platform. Recent server issues and the unpredictable nature of government regulations have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. As the situation evolves, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for potential changes that could impact online communications.