Discord has become the main form of communication in communities, groups playing games, and professional teams. However, apart from its basic features, which are voice, text, and forum chats, Discord currently hits the market with integrating apps or bots which makes the server more functional. Whether it is moderating tasks or increasing user engagement, bots are a great choice to personalize your Discord experience.
With our guide, you’ll learn how to add bots to your Discord server utilizing the App Directory and other third-party libraries. We also give some useful instructions on the best practices for using them and the frequently asked questions.
What Are Discord Bots and Why Should You Use Them?
Discord bots (or applications) are automated tools that provide new features to your server. Services like these are music tracks, content moderation, alerts, and games such as trivia, and role management. Here are some popular examples:
- MEE6: Moderates, manages reaction role and YouTube Alerts.
- Dank Memer: Lets you generate memes, play mini-games, and adopt a virtual currency system.
- Groovy: Lets you listen to music through YouTube and Spotify.
Using the right bots is an easy way to improve interaction between users and your server.
Prerequisites for Adding Bots to Discord
Do the following first:
- You have the Manage Server permission for the server where you want the bot related stuff.
- You should be aware of the fact that a Bot actually has access to some things and how it works, especially if it is sensitive data.
Adding Bots from Discord’s Native App Directory
Discord comes with an App Directory that is built-in, a selective platform for discovering and integrating bots. Proceed with these steps to add a bot:
Step 1: Open the App Directory
- Access Discord on your computer or mobile device.
- Go to your server and click on the server name which is located in the top left corner.
- From the dropdown list, choose the App Directory.
Step 2: Browse or Search for Bots
- On the App Directory page, take a look at the bots that are organized into categories such as Games, Music, or Moderation.
- Find specific bots using the search bar designed for your purposes.
Step 3: Add the Bot to Your Server
- Identify the bot you want to add.
- Touch the Add App button that is found in the top-right corner.
- Pick your server from the pop-up menu and hit Continue.
- Take a look at the bot’s permissions and hit Authorize.
After the authorization process, the bot will join your server and will be ready for action.
Adding Bots Using Third-Party Bot Libraries
While the App Directory is a one-stop shop for all your needs, many bots reside on third-party platforms which give you more options. Check out the guidelines below for adding bots from these libraries:
Step 1: Explore Trusted Bot Libraries
Some of the major third-party Discord bot directories are:
Visit these sites to browse bots or search for a specific one.
Step 2: Invite the Bot to Your Server
- Find the bot on a third-party site.
- Click the Invite or Add to Server button.
Step 3: Select Your Server and Authorize
- Log in to your Discord account if asked.
- Decide which server you want to add the bot to and press Continue.
- Grant the required permissions and hit Authorize.
Now the bot will be a member of your server.
Managing and Removing Bots on Discord
How to Remove a Bot
If a bot is not needed anymore or it is not performing as wanted, you can easily remove it:
- Open your Discord server.
- Find the bot in the Member List on the right sidebar.
- Right-click the bot’s name and select Kick.
Alternatively, you can use server settings under the Integrations tab to remove the bots.
Important Considerations
- Feature Limitations: Most bots will keep advanced features behind the subscription plans. Get a feel for the free features first before spending.
- Data Protection: Bots very often need access to server data. Avoid adding bots from non-trusted sources especially for private servers.
Maximizing the Potential of Bots on Your Discord Server
To ensure bots add value to your server:
- Choose Carefully: Tailor the bots as per your community preferences. For instance, moderation bots can be used for large servers while game bots can be used for casual communities.
- Organize Commands: Set up a separate text channel for the bot commands so that it does not fill up.
- Regular Maintenance: Routinely go through your bots to make sure they’re working and up-to-date.
Conclusion
Bots are an excellent means of turning your Discord server into a lively, vibrant, interactive space. Turning to the App Directory for ease or third-party libraries for diversity, you are welcome to add as many bots as you can, and the possibilities are endless. Use our guide to easily integrate bots, and efficiently manage them to bring an outstanding Discord experience.