The most common reasons are damaged game files or problems with your graphics card drivers, but issues with Windows system files or extra programs running in the background can also cause this error.
1. Edit Launch Options
One potential fix is to run Steam using DirectX version 9.0. For many people, this resolves the problem right away. To do this, you need to set a launch parameter for the Steam executable file. If your Steam is installed somewhere else, make sure to change the file path to match your installation directory. See the image below for reference.
You can also set launch options for specific games:
2. Check for Malware
Malware on your computer can cause all sorts of problems, including the freezing issue we’re discussing. While you can use any reliable antivirus program, we recommend scanning your computer with Malwarebytes for a thorough check. Please note: we provide external links to help users, but we are not responsible for any risks associated with using third-party software. Malware and viruses can change important system settings, which may prevent Steam from running correctly. Before disabling your antivirus (which we’ll suggest in the next step), make sure your computer is clean. If your PC is infected and you turn off your antivirus, the situation could get worse.
3. Add Steam as an Exception to Antivirus and Turning Off Firewall
It’s common for antivirus or firewall software to interfere with Steam. Steam runs several processes at once to provide the best gaming experience, but some security programs wrongly flag these as threats and block them. Learn how to add Steam to your antivirus exceptions by following our guide here.
4. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Safe Mode is a special startup mode in Windows that only loads the essentials. Most extra services and programs remain turned off, making it easier to find problems. If Steam games keep crashing, it may be due to a conflict with another program running in the background. Safe Mode will help you check if that’s the case. Running Safe Mode is safe and widely used for troubleshooting—nothing to worry about here. If the error is fixed in Safe Mode after adding antivirus exceptions and turning off Firewall, make a note of any other third-party applications running, and consider uninstalling them.
5. Verify Game Files
Sometimes missing or corrupted game files can cause Steam to crash. You can easily check and fix game files as well as your library files with these steps:
6. Disable Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Programs
If you use P2P programs like BitTorrent or uTorrent, keep in mind these can open security holes and are common targets for malware. If not configured properly, they may also expose your personal information. Uninstall any unneeded P2P programs, run a malware scan, and repair your registry if needed. Then restart Steam as administrator and check if your games launch correctly. Note: If your computer is showing strange ads or pop-ups, it’s a sign that it could be infected. Run a scan with a reputable antivirus immediately.
7. Repair Your Steam Client
Before refreshing all Steam files, try repairing your Steam client using the built-in repair option. This checks for corrupted Steam files and replaces them as needed. You may need administrative privileges for this step.
8. Run CHKDSK to Check Your Drives
CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a Windows tool that searches your drives for errors and attempts to fix them. This can be helpful for identifying and repairing underlying issues like the AppHandB1 error.
8.1. Use File Explorer
8.2. Use Command Prompt
For example, to check drive D, type: CHKDSK D:
9. Refresh Steam Files
If none of the above steps worked, it’s time to refresh or reinstall Steam. Don’t worry—this process will keep your downloaded games safe, so you won’t have to re-download them. Your user data will also be kept. This step deletes old configuration files and allows Steam to generate new, clean ones. Just ensure you know your login details before you start, as you’ll need to sign in again after reinstalling. Avoid cancelling the process to prevent further errors. To refresh or reinstall your Steam files, follow the instructions in this guide. Note: If you’re experiencing a connection error where Steam won’t connect to the internet at all, refer to this guide.
