Before trying the solutions below, ensure no external devices are connected to your system. Restart your computer and launch Steam to see if the problem is resolved. Disable any active proxy or VPN services. Additionally, consider using windowed mode for your Steam games to see if that helps. If you’re using Steam’s beta version, opt out of it and test the application again.
Solution 1: Launch Steam With Administrator Access
Steam requires read and write permissions to function properly. If it doesn’t have administrator access, it may crash. To ensure that Steam runs with administrative privileges, do the following:
Solution 2: Disable Your Antivirus and Firewall (Temporarily)
Sometimes, antivirus software or the Windows Firewall may conflict with Steam, mistaking it for a threat. Adjusting settings to prevent this or temporarily disabling these programs can diagnose the problem. If your issue is not resolved, please make sure to enable these security software again. If you need to configure Steam to be an exception in your antivirus, you can find guidance here.
Solution 3: Delete the AppCache Folder of Steam
The AppCache folder contains cache files that can occasionally cause issues, though this is less commonly the source of crashing problems. Continue with the following solutions if Steam still crashes.
Solution 4: Update Your System Drivers
Keeping your system’s drivers up-to-date is essential for applications like Steam to function correctly. Outdated drivers can lead to compatibility problems. If Steam started crashing after a graphics driver update, you might consider rolling back the driver.
Solution 5: Reset the Network Adapter
A compromised network adapter may cause connectivity issues with Steam. Resetting it could resolve problems.
Solution 6: Opting Out of Beta
Participating in the Steam beta program can sometimes cause instability due to bugs.
Final Solution: Uninstall Steam and Reinstall Later
Before uninstalling Steam, back up the SteamApps folder to avoid losing your games. After completely uninstalling Steam, reinstall it by downloading the installer from here. Launch the Install Steam Now file, select where to install Steam, and allow the installation to proceed. Once complete, Steam should operate without issues. Note: If Steam keeps crashing after all these steps, your hard drive may be the culprit. Use an appropriate tool to check it for any bad sectors or other faults. If none of the solutions above resolve your issue, faulty USB drivers might be to blame. Disconnect all USB devices except your mouse before starting Steam and execute it with administrative privileges. If Steam functions correctly without the additional USB devices but crashes when they are reconnected, consider starting Steam in Big Picture mode. Remember to update your USB hub drivers, using the manufacturer’s drivers if possible.
