Discord is a communication app that lets you talk with friends and communities through voice, video, or text. Think of it as a mix between a phone call, a group chat, and an online forum, all rolled into one. You can share your screen, send files, and hang out in virtual rooms called servers.

One of its biggest strengths is its flexibility. You can use Discord on almost any device, whether it's a computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux, or a phone or tablet with Android or iOS. There’s even a web version, so you don’t have to install anything to join a conversation.

Discord was launched in 2015 by Jason Citron and Stanislav Vishnevskiy. Originally, it was designed to help gamers talk to each other while playing. Old tools were clunky and slow, and Discord offered a sleek, reliable alternative that quickly became popular.

But it didn't stay a gaming-only tool for long. People realized its server-based structure was perfect for organizing all kinds of groups. Today, you'll find communities for study groups, book clubs, art projects, and fan meetups. The platform has grown far beyond its original purpose.

The core of Discord is the "server." A server is an invitation-only space where a community gathers. Inside each server, you can create different channels for specific topics. For example, a book club server might have separate text channels for #general-chatter, #book-of-the-month, and #spoilers.

This organization keeps conversations focused and easy to follow. You can also have voice channels, where users can drop in and out of a live conversation, just like walking into a room. This makes it easy to have spontaneous chats without needing to start a formal call.

Ready to check your understanding of Discord's basics?

That covers the basics of what Discord is and how it became the massive platform it is today. It’s a powerful tool for connecting with people who share your interests, no matter where they are.