I can't connect to Steam servers: Connectivity troubleshooting

Last update: 23/04/2024
Author Sebastian Vidal

When you have everything ready to enjoy a gaming session on Steam, but you find that the platform does not connect to the Internet. Don't worry, this problem is more common than you think and it has a solution. In this article, we will guide you step by step to Identify and resolve connection problems that you may face with Steam.Before starting, it is important to note that the connection failures on Steam can be due to various factors, from problems with the platform's servers to errors in your own computer or network configuration. Therefore, we offer you a series of solutions that you can try to enjoy your favorite games again as soon as possible.

Check the status of Steam servers

The first step identify the source of the problem is to check if the Steam servers are working correctly. Although Valve does not have an official website to report on the status of its servers, there are reliable third-party resources that you can consult:

  • SteamDB- In the "Steam Services" tab, you will be able to see the current status of the servers globally and regionally. If the indicators are green, it means there are no problems. If they are yellow or red, there lies the cause of your connection failure.
  • Steam Status on Twitter: This account reports any crash or maintenance on the platform, so that you are aware of the situation.
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If the Steam servers are working correctly, then the problem is with your computer or Internet connection. In the following sections, we explain how to solve it.

Check your Internet connection

Before making changes to Steam settings, it is essential make sure your internet connection is working properly. Try accessing other websites from your browser and check if other devices, such as your mobile or tablet, can connect to the network without problems.

If the problem persists, you can try the following solutions:

  • Restart your router: Disconnect the device from the electrical current, wait a few minutes and plug it back in.
  • Use a wired connection (Ethernet) instead of wireless, if possible.
  • Change DNS server to a public one, such as Google Public DNS, to improve connection speed.
  • Modify port settings of your router.
  • Contact your Internet provider to rule out specific problems with the service.

Delete Steam download cache

Steam stores a large amount of data when you download, install, or update games. This "download cache" can accumulate and cause connection or performance problems on the platform. To remove it, follow these steps:

  1. Launch the Steam client.
  2. In the upper left corner, click on the “Steam” menu.
  3. Enter the "Parameters" tab to access the configuration.
  4. Go to the “Downloads” tab.
  5. Look for the option «Clear download cache» and click to delete the cache.
  6. Restart Steam and see if the problem is fixed.
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Delete Steam download cache

Make firewall settings for Steam

Sometimes your computer's firewall can block Steam access to the Internet for security reasons. Although Steam is a secure application, you may need to allow it to connect manually. For it:

  1. In the Windows Start menu, search for “Windows Security.”
  2. Go to the “Firewall and network security” tab.
  3. Click “Allow an app through firewall.”
  4. Select "Change settings" and look for Steam in the list of programs.
  5. Make sure the “Public” and “Private” boxes are checked for Steam.
  6. Apply the changes and restart your PC.

Set up TCP access for Steam

If none of the above solutions have worked, you can try add a TCP access (Transmission Control Protocol) for the Steam application. This protocol can improve the performance and connection speed of the platform. To configure it:

  1. Close Steam completely, making sure it is not running in the background.
  2. In the Start menu, search for “Steam” and right-click on the icon.
  3. Select “Open file location” to access the path of the Steam executable.
  4. Right click on the executable and enter the properties.
  5. Go to the “Destination” section within the configuration options.
  6. After the quotes, introduces the term “–tcp” (without quotation marks).
  7. Apply the changes, restart your PC, and start Steam again.
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With these solutions, you should be able to resolve most connection issues you may encounter on Steam. Remember that, if your account has been suspended, you will receive prior notification by email.

If you have a Steam deck, you may also experience connection failures. In that case, try connecting to the Internet from another device to rule out problems with your network. Valve's hybrid console is a great alternative to enjoying your favorite Steam games, even when your PC gives you problems.

Don't let connection errors stop you from enjoying your video games. With this complete guide, you will be able identify and solve problems most common on Steam, to immerse yourself again in your favorite virtual adventures.