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How to fix Steam no connection error?

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  • 6 min read

Experiencing the No Connection error on Steam can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to dive into your favourite games. This error can stem from various network and Steam server issues.

If you see a ‘no connection’ error on Steam, here’s a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and resolving the problem. You can watch the video below or continue reading the article.

Below we have discussed:

Also read: What to do if Steam is not opening?


Causes of Steam no connection error

A No Connection error on Steam can arise from a range of issues. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most common causes:

  • Poor internet connection
  • Temporary glitches
  • Corrupted download cache
  • Blocked by firewall or antivirus

How to fix the issue?

Here are six fixes to help you fix the issue:

Check your Internet connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for Steam to work correctly. To troubleshoot your connection, try:

  • Restarting your router: Unplug your router, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in.
  • Testing other devices: Check if other devices on your network are experiencing issues.
  • Using a wired connection: If you’re on WiFi, try connecting directly to your router with an Ethernet cable.

Restart Steam

A simple restart of the Steam client can resolve temporary issues. To close Steam completely follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys.

Step 2: Click on the Processes option, find and close all Steam-related processes by right-clicking them and selecting End Task. 

Step 3: Once all processes are closed, start Steam as usual. You can also run Steam as an administrator by clicking on the Run as an administrator option. Running Steam with administrative privileges can resolve issues related to permissions.


Clear Steam download cache

Clearing Steam’s download cache can resolve various issues, including connection problems. To do this:

Clear through Steam

Step 1: Click on the Steam tab at the top left corner of the Steam app window.

Step 2: In the dropdown menu, click on the Settings option.

Step 3: In the Steam settings, click on the Downloads option in the sidebar and then on the right side, click on the Clear cache button beside the Clear Download Cache option.

Flush Steam data

You can flush any Steam configurations on your PC using a special Steam command and restart the program. You must open the Run utility by pressing Windows Key + R and run the following command.

steam://flushconfig

Check firewall and antivirus settings

Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software may block Steam. Ensure that Steam is allowed through your firewall:

Step 1: Press the Windows + I  key to open Windows settings and click the Update & Security option. 

Step 2: Click on Windows Security in the sidebar and then click on Firewall & network protection on the right side.

Step 3: A new window will open; click on the Allow an app through Firewall option at the bottom.

Step 4: In the allowed app’s window, click on the Change Settings button, this will allow you to edit the settings.

Step 5: Scroll down and find the Steam and checkmark boxes for both private and public beside the Steam, then click the OK button.


Change DNS

Changing your DNS settings can help if there are issues with your current DNS server. To change your DNS settings:

Step 1: Press Windows key + I to open the Windows settings and click on Network & Internet.

How to fix the 'WiFi connected but no internet access' issue?

Step 2: Click on the Change adaptor options available under the Advanced network settings section.

How to fix the 'WiFi connected but no internet access' issue?

Step 3: Right-click on your active network (WiFi or LAN) and then in the menu click Properties.

How to fix the 'WiFi connected but no internet access' issue?

Step 4: Find Internet Protocol Version 4 in the list, click on it and then click on the Properties button. 

How to fix the 'WiFi connected but no internet access' issue?

Step 5: Check the Use the following DNS server addresses radio button and type in 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 in the preferred and alternative DNS addresses, respectively. 

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Reinstall Steam

If none of the other solutions work, reinstalling Steam might fix ongoing problems. Start by uninstalling Steam from your computer. Then, visit the official Steam website or your app store to download the most recent version of the Steam client. After installation, launch Steam and log in to see if the issue has been resolved.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most Steam no connection errors. If the problem persists after trying these solutions, contacting Steam support for further assistance is recommended.

Also read: Fix: Steam game won’t stop running even after it’s closed

Akash Singh

Akash Singh

Akash is a law graduate who likes to go for bike rides on the weekends soul-searching for answers to his many existential questions. You can contact him here: singhakash95@pm.me

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