Discord has become one of the most popular communication platforms, with millions of users actively participating in servers. As a server owner, you may eventually decide you no longer need a particular server and want to delete it.
Deleting a Discord server is an irreversible action that permanently removes the server. This guide covers everything you need to know about deleting a Discord server you own, whether on desktop or mobile.
Table of Contents
When Should You Delete a Discord Server?
There are a few common reasons why you may want to delete a Discord server:
- You no longer actively use or need the server
- The purpose of the server has run its course
- You want to start fresh with a new server
- There are toxicity or harassment issues you cannot resolve
Before deleting, consider whether transferring ownership to another trusted member could be an option. However, if you have decided deletion is best, be sure to notify members in advance so they can save any data.
How to Delete a Discord Server on Desktop
Deleting a Discord server through the desktop app is simple:
Step 1: Access Your Server’s Settings
Click on the arrow next to your server’s name and select “Server Settings” from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Select “Delete Server”
In the left sidebar of your Server Settings, click the red “Delete Server” button at the very bottom.
Step 3: Confirm Deletion
You will be prompted to type the name of your server exactly to confirm. Enter the name and select “Delete Server”.
The server will now be permanently deleted across Discord. This action cannot be undone.
Deleting a Discord Server on Mobile
The process of deleting a Discord server through the mobile app is very similar:
Step 1: Open Server Settings
Tap the three dot menu next to your server name and select “Settings”
Step 2: Choose “Delete Server”
Tap the three dot menu in the top-right corner of Server Settings and choose “Delete Server”.
Step 3: Confirm Deletion
You will be asked to confirm deletion of the server. Tap “Delete” and the server will be removed.
What Happens When You Delete a Server?
When you delete a Discord server as the owner, the following happens:
- The server is permanently deleted across the Discord platform
- All channels, messages, roles, and members are erased
- Other users will no longer have access to the server
- The server cannot be recovered or restored
So only delete a server if you are absolutely certain. Consider archiving important data or conversations first.
Transferring Ownership of a Server
If you can no longer manage a server but want it to remain available, you can transfer ownership to another trusted user instead of deleting:
Step 1: Access Server Settings
Follow step 1 from above to navigate to your Server Settings.
Step 2: Select “Members”
Choose “Members” from the left hand sidebar menu.
Step 3: Transfer Ownership
Right click on the user you want to make the new owner and select “Transfer Ownership”.
They will now have full control and you will become a regular member.
Transferring ownership can be a great alternative to deleting your server while still stepping back from management responsibilities.
Best Practices For Deleting Discord Servers
To ensure the deletion process goes smoothly, keep these best practices in mind:
- Announce your plan to delete – Give members advanced warning so they can save data
- Time deletion carefully – Avoid deleting during peak server activity times
- Double check name – Entering the exact server name confirms your intent
- Backup first – Export and save important messages and data when possible
- Remove bots – Delete bots before deleting the server to avoid issues
Taking precautions allows you to delete your Discord server with confidence when the time comes.
Conclusion
While deleting a Discord server is permanent, the process is straightforward whether you use desktop or mobile. Consider alternatives like transferring ownership or archiving important data before deleting your server.
When you are ready to delete your Discord server, simply access your Server Settings, select “Delete Server”, confirm the name, and the server will be permanently removed across Discord’s platform. Use care when deleting servers as this action cannot be reversed.
