What it is, who makes it, and how to install it step-by-step
What Is Discord?
Discord is a free chat and community platform where people can talk via text, voice, and video. It’s like a mix of WhatsApp, Zoom, and online forums — all in one app.
Originally built for gamers, it’s now used by millions of students, creators, and professionals worldwide to chat, share content, and build communities.
Who Makes Discord?
Developer / Publisher: Discord Inc., founded in 2015 in San Francisco.
User Base: Over 150 million monthly active users.
Communities: Covers everything from gaming to study groups, sports, music, and esports teams.
Age Rating & Safety
PEGI (Europe): 13+
COPPA (USA): Kids under 13 can only join with parental consent.
ESRB: No formal game rating (it’s not a game), but industry guidelines set 13+ as the safe minimum.
Safety Considerations for Parents
Kids can chat with strangers if they join open servers.
Features like Direct Messages (DMs) and Friends List need oversight.
Parents can:
Restrict DMs from strangers
Enable content filters
Monitor server invites
System Requirements
Desktop (Windows / Mac):
Windows 7 or later / macOS 10.11+
4 GB RAM
Internet connection
Mobile (iOS / Android):
iOS 11 or later / Android 5 or later
Works on most modern smartphones
Discord also works in any modern browser — no download required.
Installing Discord on Windows
Step 1: Go to the Website
Open Chrome or Edge.
Type discord.com in the address bar.
Click Download for Windows.
Step 2: Install the App
Open the downloaded file (
DiscordSetup.exe).If asked “Allow this app to make changes?” → click Yes.
Discord will install automatically.
Step 3: Create an Account
Click Register (if you don’t already have one).
Enter email, username, password, and birthday.
Verify the account via email confirmation.
Step 4: Log In Easily
Kids can log in by entering their email + password.
Or use the QR Code Login:
On the login screen, click “Scan QR Code.”
Open Discord mobile app → tap the QR scanner.
Point phone at the code on the computer screen → you’re in!
Installing Discord on Mobile
Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
Search for Discord.
Tap Download and install.
Log in with the same account.
Parent Safety Checklist
Turn on Safe Direct Messaging
Settings → Privacy & Safety → Enable “Keep Me Safe.”
Restrict Friend Requests
Settings → Privacy → Only allow “Friends of Friends.”
Use Family Accounts (iOS/Android)
Link your child’s device under Family Sharing for better oversight.
Set Rules for Use
Encourage joining private servers (friends, school, team)
Avoid public servers with strangers
Quick Reference Table
Platform | Supported? | How to Install |
Windows PC | Yes | Download from discord.com |
Mac | Yes | Download from discord.com |
iOS | Yes | App Store |
Android | Yes | Google Play |
Web Browser | Yes | Log in via discord.com |
Parent FAQ
Q. Is Discord free? A. Yes. All features are free. Optional “Nitro” subscription adds cosmetics (better emojis, higher quality video).
Q. Can my child talk to strangers? A. Yes, if settings are not restricted. Parents should limit DMs and server invites.
Q. What age can kids use it? A. 13+ by default. 11–12 with verified parental consent in some regions.
Q. Is it safe for kids? A. With parental settings enabled and used mainly for school/friends, yes. Otherwise, monitor usage.
Q. Can Discord be used without downloading? A. Yes, via web browser at discord.com/app.
Final Tips for Parents
Encourage kids to use Discord only with friends they know in real life.
Use the QR login for quick, safe sign-ins.
Discuss online behavior: respect, safety, and reporting inappropriate content.
Consider creating a family Discord server where you can keep an eye on things while giving your kids their space.
With this guide, you not only know how to install Discord but also understand what it is, who makes it, how safe it is, and how to set it up securely for your kids.