If you’re a gamer, you’ve probably encountered the frustrating “Steam is already running on this computer” error. This issue prevents users from launching Steam or certain games, even when Steam appears closed. Whether you’re dealing with it once or facing it repeatedly, this guide will walk you through every effective method to solve it.
The “Steam is already running on this computer error means Steam is still open in the background. To fix it, close Steam completely using Task Manager or restart your computer. This error stops Steam from opening again until the first one is closed. It’s common and easy to fix.
In this article, we’ll explore what causes the error, common solutions, advanced fixes, and how to prevent it from recurring.
What Is the “Steam Is Already Running On This Computer” Error?
The error message typically appears when:
- You attempt to launch Steam but it thinks an instance is already running.
- A background process didn’t close properly.
- You’re trying to launch a game or Steam feature and get blocked.
The exact error text may look like:
“Steam is already running on this computer. Please close all Steam processes or restart your computer.”
This error usually results from background processes, corrupt cache files, or issues with user account permissions.
Common Causes of the Error:
Understanding the root of the problem can help you fix it faster. Here are the main causes:
- Background Steam Processes Still Running
Steam may not have shut down correctly, leaving services or background tasks open. - Corrupt Files or Cache
Damaged Steam files can confuse the system, making it think Steam is already running. - Multiple User Accounts Logged In
If Steam is open under a different user account, your session may still see it as active. - Startup Conflicts
Third-party apps, antivirus software, or malware can interfere with Steam’s processes. - Corrupt Registry Entries
Faulty registry values linked to Steam can trigger this error during startup.
How to Fix “Steam Is Already Running On This Computer” Error?
Below are step-by-step solutions ranked from basic to advanced:
1. Close Steam via Task Manager
The most common and fastest fix.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for any process named Steam.exe.
- Right-click and select End Task for each one.
- Relaunch Steam.
2. Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, simply restarting your PC clears lingering processes or memory issues.
Tip: Always try this after using Task Manager if the issue persists.
3. Check for Steam Processes in Other User Accounts
Steam can remain active in a different Windows user session.
Steps:
- Log out of all other user accounts.
- Log back into your main user profile.
- Launch Steam again.
4. Disable Auto-Startup Apps
If apps or security software launch alongside Steam, they may cause a false detection.
Steps:
- Open Task Manager > Startup tab.
- Disable non-essential programs (especially ones with overlay features or screen recorders).
- Reboot and try launching Steam again.
5. Clear Steam App Cache
Corrupt cache data can confuse Steam.
Steps:
- Navigate to the Steam directory: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam
- Delete the appcache folder (Steam will recreate it).
- Restart Steam.
6. Run Steam as Administrator
Running Steam with elevated privileges can fix access conflicts.
Steps:
- Right-click the Steam shortcut or .exe file.
- Select Run as Administrator.
7. Reinstall Steam
If none of the above work, a clean reinstall may be the best option.
Steps:
- Backup your Steamapps folder to keep your games.
- Uninstall Steam from Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program.
- Reboot your PC.
- Download the latest version of Steam from store.steampowered.com.
- Install and restore your Steamapps folder.
Read Also: Can Steam Games Crossplay With Xbox – All Guide About Steam!
Advanced Fixes:
If you’re still facing issues, here are more in-depth solutions.
1. Use Command Prompt to Kill Steam Process
Some Steam processes might be hidden.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Admin (cmd.exe).
- Type: taskkill /f /im steam.exe and hit Enter.
This forces closes all instances of Steam.
2. Check for Malware or Conflicting Software
Malware or VPNs can interfere with Steam.
Steps:
- Run a full antivirus scan.
- Disable or uninstall recent third-party software that might be causing conflicts (like overlays or game boosters).
3. Edit Windows Registry (Advanced Users)
Corrupted registry values may be responsible.
Caution: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Only proceed if you’re confident.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Valve\Steam - Delete this key and restart your PC.
Note: Steam will recreate it automatically. You may need to log in again.
How to Prevent the Error in the Future?
Once fixed, you’ll want to avoid this annoyance coming back. Here’s how:
✅ Exit Steam Properly
Always right-click the Steam icon in the system tray and click Exit before shutting down your computer.
✅ Don’t Force Shut Down
Avoid forcing shutdowns or restarts, as they often leave background processes lingering.
✅ Keep Steam Updated
Steam regularly patches bugs. Set Steam to auto-update or manually check for updates frequently.
✅ Avoid Installing Conflicting Software
Be cautious with third-party gaming tools, overlays, or performance boosters.
Final Thoughts:
The “Steam is already running on this computer” error can be annoying, but it’s usually easy to fix once you understand the cause. Whether it’s a leftover process, corrupt cache, or user profile issue, one of the solutions in this guide should get you back into your games quickly.
If the error persists after trying everything, consider contacting Steam Support for a more specific fix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Why does Steam say it’s already running when it’s not?
This error usually occurs when a Steam background process is still running even though the main window is closed. It can also happen due to corrupt cache files, multiple user accounts, or startup conflicts with other software.
2. How do I completely close all Steam processes?
To fully shut down Steam:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Find all processes named steam.exe.
- Right-click each and select End Task. You can also use the command prompt:
cmd
CopyEdit
taskkill /f /im steam.exe
3. Will uninstalling Steam delete my games?
Uninstalling Steam without backing up your game files will delete them. To prevent this:
- Backup the steamapps folder from your Steam directory before uninstalling.
- After reinstalling, paste the folder back into the new installation directory.
4. Can antivirus software cause this Steam error?
Yes, certain antivirus or firewall programs can interfere with Steam’s processes, making it appear as if it’s already running. Try disabling the software temporarily or adding Steam as an exception in your antivirus settings.
5. How can I prevent the ‘Steam already running’ error from happening again?
To reduce the chances of this error:
- Always exit Steam properly before shutting down your PC.
- Avoid force shutdowns.
- Keep Steam and your operating system up to date.
- Disable conflicting startup apps or overlays that might interfere with Steam’s processes.