JavaScript Discord bot won't start: 'node index.js' command fails

Other Questions Discord bot
1

I’m having trouble getting my Discord bot to run. I’ve written it in JavaScript, but when I try to start it with ‘node index.js’, it doesn’t work. Here’s a simplified version of my code:

const Discord = require('discord.js');
const bot = new Discord.Client();

bot.on('message', msg => {
  if (msg.content === '!ping') {
    msg.reply('Pong!');
  }
});

bot.on('ready', () => {
  console.log('Bot is online!');
  bot.user.setActivity('with Discord.js');
});

bot.login('my_token_here');

When I run it, I get an error about an invalid token. But I’m sure I copied the right token from the Discord Developer Portal. The console output is all grey, not yellow like it should be for Node.js.

Any ideas what might be causing this? I’ve double-checked my code and token, but I’m stumped. Could it be a problem with my Node.js installation or something else?

2

I encountered a similar issue when I was setting up my first Discord bot. Have you checked your environment variables? Sometimes, storing the token as an environment variable and accessing it with process.env.TOKEN can solve this problem. It’s a more secure practice too.

Also, make sure you’re using the correct token. There are different types - client secret, bot token, etc. For a bot, you need the bot token specifically.

If you’re still having trouble, try creating a new application and bot in the Discord Developer Portal, then use that fresh token. Sometimes, regenerating the token can resolve mysterious issues.

Lastly, check your internet connection. An unstable connection can sometimes cause token validation failures. Good luck troubleshooting!

3

hey mate, sounds like u might have an outdated discord.js version. try updating it with ‘npm install discord.js@latest’. also, check if ur running the script from the right directory. if that dont work, maybe reinstall node.js. hope this helps!

4

Have you considered the possibility of a firewall or antivirus blocking your bot’s connection? I’ve seen this happen before, especially with stricter security settings. Try temporarily disabling your firewall or adding an exception for Node.js and see if that helps.

Another thing to check is your Node.js version. Discord.js requires Node.js 16.9.0 or newer. You can check your version by running ‘node --version’ in the command prompt. If it’s outdated, updating Node.js might solve your issue.

Lastly, make sure you’ve invited your bot to your server with the correct permissions. Sometimes people forget this step, and the bot can’t connect even with the right token. Double-check the OAuth2 URL you used to invite the bot.