Before you begin
Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.
Work through these checks
0 of 3 complete01Add Steam and its library folder to antivirus exclusions
- Add Steam and its library folder to antivirus exclusions
What to expect
Check whether the original symptom still occurs.
If it does not helpContinue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.
02Run Steam as administrator
- Run Steam as administrator
What to expect
Check whether the original symptom still occurs.
If it does not helpContinue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.
03Move library to a drive with sufficient free space
- Move library to a drive with sufficient free space
What to expect
Check whether the original symptom still occurs.
If it does not helpContinue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.
Possible causes
- Antivirus or Windows Defender holding file locks
- Game files in a write-protected folder
- Steam library on a full disk
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