9 Ways to Fix the Steam Error Code 118 on Windows

Here's how to fix the Steam error code 118 on Windows and get back into gaming.

Steam is the go-to platform to relax with some PC games. It has its own store from where you can download your favorite games. But while accessing the store or the library section on Steam, you might encounter the error code 118.

The error mainly appears when the Steam client fails to connect with the server. Thankfully, there are 9 working ways by which you can eliminate this error code. Let's check them out.

What Is Steam Error Code 118?

The Steam error code 118 is mainly a result of a weak internet connection. But there are many more reasons that can be responsible for the issue.

1. The problem can appear if the Windows Firewall is blocking important Steam services.
2. Different applications running in the background can also trigger the error message.
3. Outdated or corrupt network drivers are another prime reason behind the problem.

Now that you know the different reasons causing the issue, below are all the possible solutions you can try.

1. Restart the Steam Client

For most users, the error code 118 disappeared with just a simple restart. As it turns out, the problem can be a product of a temporary glitch in the client. In this situation, restarting Steam is the best thing to consider.

So, restart Steam and check if it fixes the problem or not. If not, continue with the guide.

2. Check the Internet Connection

As aforementioned, the problem mainly results due to a weak internet connection. Thus, ensure that everything's fine with your connectivity. You can check your connection speed by visiting an internet speed-checking website.

If the result shows that you are getting a lower speed, consider rebooting the router. Alternatively, you can connect with the ISP to complain about the low and unstable internet connection.

3. Close Background Running Applications

Background running applications can constantly consume the internet bandwidth and cause the problem in the question. As a solution, you will have to close all such applications. You can do it by following the below steps.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. In the Processes tab, right-click on all the unnecessary applications and choose End task.

That's it. Relaunch the Steam client and check for the problem.

4. Run the Network Troubleshooter

The next solution on the list is to run the network troubleshooter. It is a built-in utility on Windows PC that looks for and resolves issues related to connectivity. You can run the troubleshooter by following the below steps.

1. Open the Settings menu using the Win + I hotkey.
2. In this System tab, choose the Troubleshoot option.
3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
4. Click on Run next to Internet Connections.
   
5. Choose Troubleshoot my connection to the internet.

Now, the troubleshooter will look for and fix all the connectivity issues.

5. Download the Latest Steam Client Update

Steam error code 118 is very common among systems that have outdated client versions. Each update comes with new features and bug fixes. If the problem is being caused due to a bug, it's better to update the client.

Here's how to download the latest version of the Steam client.

1. Launch the Steam client.
2. Click on Steam at the top left corner.
3. Choose Check for Steam client updates from the context menu.
   

Steam will now look for and download any available updates. Once the process is complete, relaunch the client and check for the issue.

6. Update the Network Driver

Similar to games and applications, it's crucial to keep updating the installed drivers. Driver updates make sure that the system remains completely up to date and free from problems.

To solve the Steam error code 118, you'll have to update the network driver. Here's how to do it.

1. Open the Device Manager using one of the many ways to open the Device Manager.
2. Double-click on Network adapters.
3. Right-click on the installed network driver and choose Update driver from the context menu.
   

Windows will now look for and install the best network driver for the system. If it fails to find any, try searching for the manufacturer of your network adapter online for drivers.

7. Allow Steam to Communicate Through Windows Defender Firewall

You'll most likely face the problem in the question if the Steam client is blocked under the Firewall settings. You will have to allow the app to run through the Firewall to fix the problem. You can do it by following the below steps.

1. Open the Start menu, type Windows Security and press Enter.
2. Choose Firewall & network protection from the left pane.
3. Click on Allow an app through the Firewall.
4. Click on Change settings.
5. Checkmark Public and Private boxes next to Steam.
   
6. Click on OK to save the changes.

That's it. Check if you are still facing the problem.

8. Turn Off Any Proxy Server Connection

A proxy server helps in preventing cyber attacks. But on the negative side, it makes the connection unstable and causes different issues, including the one in the discussion.

So, turn off the proxy server and check if it fixes the problem. Here's how to do it.

1. Open the Start Menu, type Internet Options, and press Enter.
2. Click on the Connections tab.
3. Choose the LAN settings option.
4. Uncheck the Use a proxy server for your LAN option.
   
5. Click OK to apply the changes.

9. Reset the Network Settings

If the problem still persists, most probably, it is being caused due to misconfigured network component settings. As a solution, you will have to reset the network settings.

Resetting the network settings will reinstall the network adapters and set the network components to their default values. Here's how to do it.

1. Open Settings.
2. Choose Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.
3. Click on Reset now next to Network reset.
   
4. Click Yes to confirm your selection.

After the reset process is complete, you will have to reinstall any network software like VPNs.

Steam Error Code 118, Now Fixed

Steam error code 118 can appear anytime and stop the users from playing games. Fortunately, it's a cakewalk to eliminate the error code. Just try the above solutions to get rid of the issue for good.

But if none of the solutions fixes the problem, you will have to reinstall the Steam client.