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How to Fix Steam Error Code 118 on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are encountering Steam Error Code 118 on your Windows 11 PC, it means your Steam client is unable to connect to the server. This error can interrupt your gaming experience and prevent you from accessing your favorite games.

Fortunately, this error is usually easy to fix with some simple troubleshooting steps. You do not need to be an expert to try these solutions.

In this guide, we will walk you through clear, easy-to-follow steps to resolve Steam Error Code 118 on Windows 11.

By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to get Steam working again in no time.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your internet connection is stable and working properly. Try opening other websites or apps to confirm.
  • Verify that Steam servers are not down by checking Steam Status.
  • Ensure your Windows 11 system is up to date with the latest updates installed.
  • Close any VPNs or proxy services you might be using, as they can interfere with Steam connectivity.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Router

Sometimes, temporary network glitches can cause error code 118. Restarting your computer and router will refresh your network connection and clear minor issues.

  1. Close Steam completely.
  2. Turn off your computer.
  3. Unplug your router from the power source, wait for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
  4. Turn your computer back on and open Steam again.
  5. Check if the error persists.

Restarting helps because it resets your network devices, which often resolves simple connectivity problems.

Step 2: Check Your Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus programs might block Steam from accessing the internet. You need to make sure Steam is allowed through these security settings.

Allow Steam Through Windows Firewall

  1. Press Win + S and type Windows Defender Firewall, then open it.
  2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Find Steam in the list. If it’s not there, click Allow another app… and add Steam manually.
  4. Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked for Steam.
  5. Click OK to save changes.

Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus

Antivirus software can sometimes block Steam’s access. Temporarily disable your antivirus and check if Steam connects. If it does, add Steam to your antivirus exceptions or whitelist.

Note: Remember to re-enable your antivirus after testing to keep your PC protected.

Step 3: Clear Steam’s Download Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause connection errors. Clearing Steam’s download cache can often fix this issue.

  1. Open Steam and click on Steam in the upper-left corner.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Go to the Downloads tab.
  4. Click the Clear Download Cache button.
  5. Confirm by clicking OK. Steam will restart.
  6. Try connecting again.

Step 4: Flush Your DNS and Renew IP Address

Your DNS cache or IP configuration might be causing connection problems. Flushing DNS and renewing your IP can help fix networking issues.

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

After completing these commands, close the Command Prompt and try opening Steam again.

Step 5: Change Your DNS Server Settings

Sometimes, your default DNS servers provided by your ISP can cause connectivity issues. Switching to a public DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve connection reliability.

  1. Press Win + S, type Network Status, and open it.
  2. Click Change adapter options.
  3. Right-click on your active internet connection and select Properties.
  4. Find and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
  5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
  6. Enter the following addresses:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  7. Click OK to save changes, then close all windows.
  8. Restart Steam and check if the error is resolved.

You can also use Cloudflare’s DNS servers (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) as an alternative.

Step 6: Disable Proxy Settings

Proxy servers can interfere with Steam’s ability to connect to its servers. Disabling proxy settings can resolve error 118 in some cases.

  1. Press Win + S and type Internet Options, then open it.
  2. Go to the Connections tab.
  3. Click on LAN settings.
  4. Uncheck the box that says Use a proxy server for your LAN.
  5. Make sure Automatically detect settings is checked.
  6. Click OK to save and exit.
  7. Restart Steam and test the connection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly causes Steam Error Code 118?

Error Code 118 occurs when Steam cannot establish a connection to its servers. This can be due to network issues, firewall or antivirus blocks, incorrect DNS settings, or proxy interference.

Can I keep playing my games offline if I get Error 118?

Yes, you can use Steam’s Offline Mode to play games that are already installed and do not require an internet connection.

Is it safe to disable my antivirus or firewall to fix this error?

Temporarily disabling security software is safe for troubleshooting, but always re-enable it afterward. Instead, it’s better to add Steam as an exception or whitelist it.

Will reinstalling Steam fix Error 118?

Reinstalling Steam can help if the client files are corrupted, but it should be your last option after trying simpler fixes.

How do I check if Steam servers are down?

You can visit steamstat.us to see real-time status updates of Steam’s servers worldwide.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face Steam Error Code 118, consider the following options:

  • Contact Steam Support: Visit the official Steam Support page for personalized assistance.
  • Check Your Network Hardware: Test your internet connection on another device to ensure your router or modem isn’t faulty.
  • Use a Wired Connection: If you are on Wi-Fi, try switching to an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
  • Reset Network Settings: As an advanced step, you can reset your entire network configuration via Windows Settings → Network & Internet → Advanced network settings → Network reset.

Conclusion

Steam Error Code 118 is a common connectivity issue that can often be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting from restarting your system and router to adjusting firewall and DNS settings, each step helps eliminate possible causes.

By carefully following this guide, you can restore your Steam connection on Windows 11 without hassle. Remember to check your internet and Steam server status first, then proceed through the solutions from easiest to more advanced.

If all else fails, Steam Support is always available to help. Enjoy your gaming!

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