Apps & runtime · medium

How to fixSTEAM-DISK-WRITE-ERR

Steam - Error writing to disk during installation

What this error means

STEAM-DISK-WRITE-ERR shows up as a medium-severity software runtime fault. Steam will abort installing or updating a game with a disk write error. Common triggers are insufficient permissions for Steam/steamapps folder and the antivirus program blocks the writing of files. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Move Steam outside the Program Files folder (eg C:\Games\Steam)

Move Steam outside the Program Files folder (eg C:\Games\Steam).

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Right click on steam.exe and select Run as administrator

Right click on steam.exe and select Run as administrator.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Add Steam as an exception in the antivirus

Add Steam as an exception in the antivirus.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • The Steam folder is in a UAC protected folder (eg Program Files)
  • Insufficient permissions for Steam/steamapps folder
  • The antivirus program blocks the writing of files