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Steam Service Error: 4 Methods to get it Working Again

Some easy expert suggestions

4 min. read

Updated onApril 11, 2024

updated onApril 11, 2024

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Key notes

Some users have posted on support forumsabout a Steam service error that arises when they try to launch the platform. The error message states:

In order to run Steam properly on this version of Windows, the Steam service component is not working properly on this computer.

Consequently, the Steam client doesn’t start, and users can’t access their games. We can all agree that it is extremely annoying.

In this article, we’ll look at a few solutions to quickly get back into the gaming platform.

Why does a Steam service error appear?

Why does a Steam service error appear?

From interactions with users, we figured out that there are many possible reasons why a Steam service error might appear, including:

How do I fix the Steam service error?

How do I fix the Steam service error?

1. Configure Steam to run as an administrator

2. Disable third-party antivirus software

Disabling the antivirus should be effective in most cases.

However, since you’re prone to cyberattacks when accessing the Internet without a proper shield, we recommend using less restrictive software such asESET HOME Security Essentialinstead of disabling your antivirus altogether.

This antivirus solution is created to protect all types of digital activities one may engage in.

Eset HOME Security Essential has a powerful firewall that secures your Internet connection and provides additional shields that ensure safe shopping, banking, and communication experience.

It has multilayered protection that can detect all sorts of threats, including viruses, rootkits, ransomware, worms, spyware, and more.

Do not forget about its high detection rate, which is very likely to block threats before they can cause any damage to your system.

Check out themost amazing features of ESET HOME Security Essential:

ESET HOME Security Essential

3. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

4. Use Command Prompt

Those are some of the more widely confirmed fixes for the Steam service error. Running Steam as an administrator will often fix the issue. However, some users might need to fix the error with other resolutions.

We also coveredSteam error code E20in one of our previous guides, so don’t miss it.

If none of these work or if you used another way, please let us know in the comments.

More about the topics:Steam Guides

Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.

He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.

In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.

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Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.