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How to Fix the “Game Data Has Not Finished Installing” Error in Resident Evil 7 on Windows 11

If you are encountering the “Game Data Has Not Finished Installing” error while trying to play Resident Evil 7 on Windows 11, it can be frustrating. This issue usually means the game files haven’t fully installed or updated. Luckily, there are simple ways to fix this problem.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow steps to resolve the error. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without trouble. By the end, you should be able to launch Resident Evil 7 without seeing the error message.

We will start with basic checks and move toward more detailed troubleshooting if needed. Take your time and follow each step carefully.

Let’s get started and get your game running smoothly again.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into fixes, here are some quick checks to make sure your system meets basic requirements:

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is important because some game data might still be downloading.
  • Ensure you have enough free disk space: Insufficient space can cause installation or update problems.
  • Verify Windows 11 is up to date: Updates can fix compatibility issues with games.
  • Close other running applications: Other programs might interfere with the installation process.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest fix is to restart your PC. Restarting clears temporary files and resets system processes that might be causing the issue.

How to do it:

  1. Click on the Start menu at the bottom left of your screen.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Click Restart.
  4. Once your PC restarts, try launching Resident Evil 7 again.

Step 2: Verify the Game Installation

If the game data hasn’t finished installing, it might be because some files are missing or corrupted. Verifying the game files can fix this.

How to verify on Steam:

  1. Open the Steam client and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Resident Evil 7 and select Properties.
  3. Click on the Local Files tab.
  4. Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  5. Steam will check your game files and download any missing or corrupted files.

This step ensures that all necessary files are properly installed, which can directly fix the installation error.

Step 3: Allow the Game Through Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall may block some game data from installing properly. Allowing Resident Evil 7 through the firewall can solve this issue.

To do this:

  1. Press Windows + S and type Windows Defender Firewall, then open it.
  2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left side.
  3. Click the Change settings button.
  4. Find Resident Evil 7 or its launcher in the list. If it’s not there, click Allow another app… and browse to the game’s executable file.
  5. Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked.
  6. Click OK to save changes.

By doing this, you enable the game to communicate through the firewall without restrictions.

Step 4: Run the Game and Platform as Administrator

Sometimes, lack of permissions can prevent the game from completing installation. Running the game and the platform (like Steam or Epic Games Launcher) as an administrator can help.

Here’s how:

  1. Right-click the Steam or Epic Games Launcher icon on your desktop or start menu.
  2. Select Run as administrator.
  3. Once the platform opens, do the same for Resident Evil 7’s shortcut or executable file.
  4. Try launching the game now.

This gives the necessary permissions to install and update files without interruption.

Step 5: Check for Pending Windows Updates

Installing the latest Windows updates can fix bugs and improve system compatibility with games.

To check for updates:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update on the left menu.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. If updates are found, download and install them.
  5. Restart your PC after updates install.

After updating, try running the game again.

Alternative Method: Reinstall the Game

If none of the above steps work, reinstalling Resident Evil 7 may solve the problem by giving you a fresh installation.

Steps to reinstall:

  1. Open your game platform (Steam, Epic Games, etc.).
  2. Go to your library and right-click Resident Evil 7.
  3. Select Uninstall and confirm.
  4. After uninstallation finishes, restart your computer.
  5. Download and install Resident Evil 7 again from the platform.

This ensures all game data is correct and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the “Game Data Has Not Finished Installing” error appear?

This error usually means that the game’s installation process is incomplete or some files are missing or corrupted. It can also occur if the game is still downloading updates.

Can I play the game while it’s still installing?

Generally, no. The game requires all data to be fully installed before it can run properly.

Will verifying game files delete my saved progress?

No, verifying files only checks the integrity of game files and repairs them if necessary. Your saved games are stored separately and are not affected.

Is it safe to run the game as administrator?

Yes, running the game or platform as administrator simply provides extra permissions needed to access certain files or complete installations. It is a common troubleshooting step.

What if my internet connection is unstable?

An unstable connection can interrupt downloads or updates. Make sure you have a stable internet connection during installation.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face the issue, here are some final options:

  • Contact official support: Visit the Resident Evil 7 support page or the platform’s help center (Steam, Epic Games) for direct assistance.
  • Check forums: Communities like Reddit or game forums may have users with similar issues and solutions.
  • Reset Windows Store (if applicable): For Microsoft Store versions, resetting the store cache can help via wsreset.exe.
  • Perform a clean boot: This starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs, which can isolate software conflicts.

Conclusion

The “Game Data Has Not Finished Installing” error in Resident Evil 7 on Windows 11 is usually caused by incomplete installation, corrupted files, or permission issues. By following the simple steps outlined—restarting your PC, verifying game files, adjusting firewall settings, running as administrator, and updating Windows—you can resolve this problem in most cases.

If necessary, reinstalling the game provides a fresh start. Always ensure your system and game platform are up to date and have enough free space. With patience and these clear instructions, you should be able to enjoy Resident Evil 7 without interruption.

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