A "JavaScript error occurred in main process" error in Electron applications indicates critical failures in the core process. Below are three primary causes:
1. Uncaught Exceptions in Main Process Code
Unhandled JavaScript errors in or related scripts halt the main process. Common triggers include:
- Reference errors (e.g., accessing undefined variables)
- Type errors (e.g., calling non-function objects)
- Module import failures due to incorrect paths or missing dependencies
2. Native Module Compatibility Issues
Electron's main process relies on native * modules (e.g., .node files). Failures occur when:
- Modules compiled for a different */Electron version
- Incorrect rebuilds after Electron updates (
electron-rebuildskipped) - Architecture mismatches (e.g., x86 vs. ARM)
3. Context Isolation Violations
Improper use of Electron APIs across process boundaries triggers errors:
- Accessing browser-window objects (e.g.,
document) directly from the main process - Calling restricted modules (e.g., GUI toolkits) unsupported in *
- Undefined IPC message handlers between main/renderer processes
Debug using Electron's built-in crash logs (*('crashDumps')) and ensure robust error handling via *('uncaughtException'). Validate native modules via require() checks before execution.
