Steam is one of the best PC gaming launchers, but it is not safe from problems. One problem you may face with the platform is being unable to sign in to your account. Maybe it claims that your password is wrong, gives an error code, or just loads endlessly.
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Whatever the situation, we are here to help you. We’ve put together this guide detailing all the troubleshooting steps you can take when you can’t sign in to Steam. Follow these in turn and you should be back to gaming in no time.
1. Check Steam Status
Your Steam sign in difficulties can result from a Steam server outage or being down for maintenance. If Steam is down, you can just wait for the server to return to normal operation.
As a first port of call, check out the Steam Game and Player Statistics page. If there is recognized downtime, it will appear on this page. Equally, if you have any trouble accessing the Steam website, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to log into the Steam client as well.
It’s also worth checking a site like DownDetector. It depends on player reports to see if there is a widespread or local issue with Steam.
2. Restart your computer
It’s a simple troubleshooting step, but it’s one you should do regardless: Restart your computer. There may be some network or program conflict that is causing Steam not to sign you in. You’d be surprised how much a restart can solve.
3. Reset your password or other account details
An important step is to check that you are trying to sign in with the correct details.
For starters, you’ll need to use your account name. It is not the same as your display name or email address. Also, this may sound obvious, but make sure you’re typing the correct password. Double check if you have enabled Caps Lock by mistake.
You will see your account name displayed. From here, select the option that is preventing you from signing in. For example, reset my password or remove Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator and follow the wizard.
If any of these programs are enabled on your system, disable them one by one and test to see if you can log into Steam.
Keep in mind that some programs may launch at start-up without telling you. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. On the Processes tab, check all running processes and terminate any tasks that might be causing a conflict with Steam.
5. Configure Your Firewall
Firewall can cause problems when you try to sign in to Steam. To see if this is the case, temporarily disable your firewall. If you can sign in without any problems, then you have identified the cause of the problem.
On Windows, press Windows Key + I to open Settings and go to Update & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security.
From here, choose Firewall & Network Protection, select your active network, and slide Microsoft Defender Firewall to Off.
To change Steam’s permissions, go back and select Allow an app through the firewall. Click Change Settings, find all Steam-related apps in the list, and allow them through private and public networks. When done, click OK.
Valve also recommends that you allow the following executable through your firewall, the full path of which will depend on where you have Steam installed.
If you see these already listed on your firewall, remove them. Then, start Steam, log in, and your firewall should let you set permissions for the executable you need.
Additionally, check Steam Support for a list of the required ports you need to open on your router or firewall. Valve notes that many schools and businesses block Steam’s required ports, so consult your network administrator if this applies to you.
6. Scan for Viruses and Malware
It’s possible that some kind of virus or malware is interfering with the Steam client or your connection and making it so you can’t sign in.
You can scan for viruses without buying software. Windows Security Defender is fully capable of keeping you safe and comes as standard with Windows 10/11.
Press Windows Key + I to open Settings and go to Update & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security.
Once here, click on Virus & Threat Protection > Scan Options > Full Scan > Scan Now. Wait for the scan to complete. Hope that’s not a problem; If it does, that should resolve them, after which you can try logging into Steam.
7. Contact Your ISP
According to Valve, some ISPs have been known to block Steam outright or during specific times. This includes 012.net, Bluewin, Dutch Telecom, ISPFree and Micronet Broadband.