You were looking forward to a game session and now Steam shows: Connection error. In addition to problems with the Internet connection, other factors can also play a role here. We'll show you what they are and what you can do to be able to play after all.
Connection error in Steam - this could be the reason:
No internet connection
The most common problem for connection errors on Steam is actually a poor or non-existent connection between the computer and the internet. Your W-LAN may be disturbed or the LAN cable is no longer properly seated. Or maybe the problem lies with your internet service provider. You should check to see if other programs can still access the Internet. Also, check to see if you accidentally turned on airplane mode.
Fault in the Steam server
If your computer has an existing internet connection, but Steam suddenly stops working, there may be a fault in the Steam server. Maintenance work or the like may be carried out there. If possible, exchange ideas with other people: Can other players still access Steam?
VAC exclusion
VAC is the valve anti-cheat system. Valve, the company behind Steam, ensures that nobody is cheating in a (competitive) online game. If you've been caught cheating recently, your account may be VAC banned. Your account is now banned for the time being and you can no longer access your Steam library. In such a case, contact Steam Support for more details..
Problems with the firewall or other programs
Steam may be using another program or your firewall may not be configured correctly. Otherwise it can also help to start Steam as administrator. In the case of an incorrectly set firewall, it should automatically send a notification that Steam wanted to establish an unauthorized internet connection or a connection to your computer. Normally, with just a few clicks, you can give Steam authorization to connect to the Internet and to the Steam servers.
In addition, other programs installed on the computer may lead to an error or malfunction of the Steam connection. A direct diagnosis of the interfering program is unfortunately not possible here. However, if you have recently installed a program or an app on your computer and "by chance" Steam has stopped working since then, this is a possible indication. Here you should - if possible - uninstall this program and then check again whether there is still a problem with the Steam connection.
Program
files corrupted Faulty updates and other causes can cause some files in the Steam program to become damaged or corrupted. In such a case, there is usually no other choice than to uninstall Steam and all downloaded games and reload them. Before you do this, you can try another option: Open the Steam folder in the program files in Explorer (usually found via C: \ Steam). Select the "clientregistry.blob" file and delete it. Now restart the Steam client. It will now try to repair itself automatically..
