The most common cause is a damaged “clientui” or “webcache” folder in Steam. Problems with graphics settings or recent graphics driver updates can also cause this issue.
1. Run Steam as an Administrator
Giving Steam admin rights helps it load all its interface files correctly, which can fix the black friends list problem. Without admin access, Windows may block some parts of the interface from showing.
2. Delete the ClientUI Folder
Deleting the ClientUI folder makes Steam recreate the interface files, which can fix problems like a black friends list. Old or broken files in this folder often cause issues with the chat and friends windows.
3. Clear Steam Download Cache
Clearing the download cache updates Steam’s temporary files, which can fix problems with the friends list or chat not loading correctly. It also helps avoid issues caused by old or damaged cached files.
4. Delete the htmlcache Folder
Deleting the htmlcache folder removes saved web data used by Steam’s friends and chat system. This can fix problems like the interface not loading correctly or showing a black screen because of broken cache files.
5. Repair the Steam Service
Repairing the Steam service fixes background parts that control important features like chat, friends, and overlays. If these parts are broken or set up wrong, the friends list might not load properly.
6. Re-login to Steam
Logging out and back into Steam refreshes your session and clears quick account issues. This can fix problems where the friends list won’t load because of a bad login or expired session.
7. Update Steam
If your Steam friends list is still blacked out after trying all these steps, contact Steam Support to report the issue. They may have additional solutions to help you get things working again.
