4 Ways to Overcome Steam Error Code 118

 Finding Steam error code 118 while playing games on Steam is a common problem that users often encounter. As we know Steam is a famous gaming platform, where users can easily get and install digital versions of PC games, instead of going to stores and buying video games.

This platform is quite convenient for gamers around the world, and is widely used. However, there have been complaints from Steam users that they encountered the Steam error code 118 during gameplay or when they tried to open the store or library. Therefore, to solve this situation, we have come up with some solutions which can help you to fix the problem.

What is Steam Error Code 118?

Steam error code 118 could be a connection error between the user and the Steam server. You may get another error message like "Unable to connect to server the server may be offline or you may not be connected to the internet". This will prevent you from loading the Steam store or library. Now let's see the reason behind this error message.

Since steam error code 118 is an error related to communication between the Steam client and server, here are some possible causes of this problem:

* Firewall: It is possible that the Windows Firewall might block Steam from making contact with its servers and therefore the Steam error code 118 appears. Windows Firewall often detects certain applications as harmful to your computer even though they are not and blocks them automatically.

* Internet Problems: It is possible that the internet connection you are using on your computer is not working properly or is slow because the Steam Client is facing problems trying to connect to its database.

* Background Applications: In some cases, third-party applications may cause interference with the functioning of Steam servers, thereby causing the Steam error code 118.

* Virus: If a certain virus or malware manifests itself on your computer, then it might prevent the Steam Client from working properly.

How to Overcome Steam Error Code 118

Maybe you are annoyed when you experience Steam error code 118 when you want to play some games on Steam. However, there are several ways that can be used to fix or overcome this problem.

1. Reboot Modem/Router

Reboot Modem Router

This problem can also occur if the internet speed suddenly becomes slow. Rebooting the router or modem can refresh its software and increase connection speed. To do this follow the instructions below:

1. Unplug the power cord from the router.

2. Wait a moment and plug the cable back in.

3. Wait until Internet access is granted and then run Steam.

4. Check if the Steam error code 118 issue still occurs.

2. Clean Boot Windows

Clean Boot Windows

The error might be triggered if any third party app or service is interfering with it. Therefore, you can clean boot Windows to fix this. Follow the instructions below to do this:

1. Press Windows key + R simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.

2. Type msconfig and press Enter.

3. Click on the Services tab and uncheck the Hide all Microsoft Services option.

4. Click on the Disable All option and then click on the Startup tab.

5. Click the Open Task Manager option and click the application listed there.

6. Click the Disable button to disable it from starting automatically on startup.

7. Repeat this process and disable all apps in the list.

8. Restart the computer and run Steam Client only.

9. Check to see if the problem goes away if it does, you can start enabling the services one by one until the problem returns. This way you can easily identify the problematic service or Application and you can disable it permanently.

3. Check if Windows Defender Firewall is Blocking Steam

The Windows Firewall may be blocking the Steam Client from making contact with its server and therefore the Steam error code 118 message appears. So you have to make sure that Windows Firewall allows the Steam app. To do so follow the steps below:

Check If Windows Defender Firewall Is Blocking Steam

1. Press Windows key + S to open Windows search bar.

2. Type firewall in the search box that opens.

3. Click Windows Defender Firewall.

4. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewal on the left side of the firewall applet.

5. Click Change settings to adjust firewall app permissions on the left side of the window.

6. Then check that the Public and Private checkboxes for Steam Client are selected. Otherwise, select both checkboxes.

7. Click the OK button to exit the window.

4. Run Antivirus Scan

Run Antivirus Scan

If a computer is exposed to malware or viruses, it can interfere with the functionality of certain files of the Steam application and cause problems when trying to connect to the server. Therefore, it is recommended to scan the computer for Viruses. To do this, you can use the built-in tool from Windows, namely Windows Defender.

1. Press Windows key + S to open Windows search bar.

2. Enter the Windows Security password, then click the application to open it.

3. Click Scan options on the Virus & threat protection tab.

4. Select the Full scan option.

5. Press the Scan now button.

Conclusion

So those were some ways to fix Steam error code 118. If none of the above methods work, check using Downdetector if Steam is down. There may be a Steam server outage that the user cannot fix.