Steam Not Downloading Games? Here’s How to Fix It

A C.A. by profession and a tech enthusiast by passion, Gaurav loves tinkering with new tech and gadgets. He used to build WordPress websites but gave it all up to develop little iOS games instead. Finally, he dropped out of CA to pursue his love for tech. He has over 5 years of experience as a writer covering Android, iOS, and Windows platforms and writes how-to guides, comparisons, listicles, and explainers for B2B and B2C apps and services. He currently divides his time between Guiding Tech (writer) and Tech Wiser (editor).

Afam has been a content writer with Guiding Tech Media since August 2023. However, his experience in tech writing dates back to 2018, when he worked as a freelance writer for Make Tech Easier. Over the years, he has grown a reputation for publishing quality guides, reviews, tips, and explainer articles. His work is featured on top websites, including Technical Ustad, Windows Report, and Next of Windows. He has training as a Microsoft Certified Professional and has covered more Microsoft-related guides on these platforms.

Basic Fixes:

Fix 1: Turn off Limit IP Tracking in the Network Settings (Mac)

This first solution is very effective but only works for Mac users. Many users have claimed it was the ultimate solution.

Step 1:Click theApple logoat the top left > click onSystem Settings.

Step 2:Click onNetworkon the left pane >Wi-Fion the right.

Step 3:Click on theDetailsoption > toggle offLimit IP address tracking, > clickOK.

Fix 2: Clear Download Cache

Here, we are not referring to your Windows or macOS computer cache. We are talking about the Steam client cache, and there is a way to clear it from inside the app.

Step 1:Open theSteam client> selectSettingsunder Steam.

Step 2:TheClear Download Cachebutton is under theDownloadstab. Click on it and confirm in the pop-up that follows.

At this point, you don’t need to reboot your computer or sign back into the Steam client, as it has the option built into it.

Fix 3: Change Download Region

Steam has download servers worldwide and will automatically choose one based on your IP address. One that’s closest to you to provide optimal speeds. Changing the server location can help improve download speeds or fix downloading errors.

Step 1:Open the Steam client again and go toSettings>Downloadstab.

Step 2:Choose a new download location from theDownload Regiondrop-down menu.

I suggest choosing a location that’s closer to where you live. That will give you better download speeds. Try a couple of locations before moving on to the next method. Multiple servers could be affected.

Fix 4: Verify Game Files Integrity and Repair Library Folders

Steam downloads all the required game files to ensure your favorite game runs smoothly. However, these files could get corrupted, and updates cannot be downloaded via the Steam client. Steam knows this, so it offers a way to check files’ integrity.

Step 1:OpenSteam client> go toLibrarywhere you will find all your downloaded games > right-click to selectProperties.

Step 2:Under theLocal Filestab, click onVerify Integrity of game filesto begin the process.

Now, proceed to repair library folders following the steps below:

Step 1:Open theSteam client> go toSteam>Settings.

Step 2:Click onSteam Library Foldersunder theDownloadstab.

Step 3:In the following pop-up, right-click on theSteam folder locationwhere files are saved > selectRepair Library Folder.

Steam will check for corrupt files and repair them orre-download them. Check if you can now download game updates via Steam.

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Last updated on 26 July, 2024

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