How To Fix Steam Is Already Running Error | Won’t Open Or Connect
Some gamers may encounter an annoying problem that shows “Steam Is Already Running” error when they try to open Steam client. If you have this problem right now, you’ve found the right page to get help.
In this troubleshooting article, we’ll show you the solutions that you can try to fix Steam Is Already Running problem.
Causes for Steam is already running error
This particular error usually happens if you enable Compatibility Mode on Steam client. However, other less common causes can also trigger it. If you encounter this annoying problem whenever you run Steam, learn the things that might cause it below.
Random Steam bug.
Some applications may sometimes encounter errors that can stop them from working normally. Some users have reported that “Steam is already running” error occurs on their machines even though they haven’t changed anything. The good thing is, an error like this may go away on its own after a system reboot.
Steam client running in Compatibility Mode.
The most common cause for this error is when a user runs Steam client in Compatibility Mode. Compatibility Mode is often used if you’re having an issue running an issue with an old game, or when your computer’s Operating System is old and may not work properly with a new game.
By default, Steam games are supposed to work even with older Windows OS but sometimes, a user may be told to manually run Steam to Compatibility Mode first.
The problem is, other games may not work in turn if Steam is running on Compatibility Mode. In some cases, Steam may simply fail to launch as indicated by “Steam is already running” error. You should consider switching Steam to normal mode again if a system reboot won’t fix this error.
Unknown Steam client glitch.
Some Steam problems are caused by errors within Steam client itself. This happens if there’s a corrupt data for this program, or if some game data are outdated.
Other software interfering with Steam.
Third party software like antivirus, or other forms of anti-malware may cause problems with Steam. You may need to investigate if one of your security software is causing an issue with Steam if the error won’t go away.
Solutions to Steam is already running error
Investigate for possible virus or malware infection.
In some rare cases, Steam may keep crashing, won’t open, or won’t connect to servers due to a virus or malware. Below are the telltale signs that you should be aware of to know if your PC is infected with a virus or malware that attacks Steam:
- unrelated, random ads appear when Steam is launched or opened
- browser opens and leads to an ad or website when clicking something on Steam
- “Access Denied: You don’t have permission to access http://steamcommunity.com on this server.” error keeps popping up
If you’re getting any of these signs on your computer as well as significant performance degradation of the system, there may be a malicious software in your machine. You must clean up or remove the virus first before using Steam again.
Some third party “virus removal” tools are actually malware themselves so be careful when getting help to remove a virus infection. Do some research by visiting official websites and use official antivirus or security software only.
Suggested readings:
- How To Fix Steam Game Won’t Open (Missing Executable)
- How To Fix Connection Problems On Xbox One | Live Won’t Work
- What To Do If Xbox One Keeps Disconnecting | Kicked From Live
- What To Do If Your Nintendo Switch Game Keeps Crashing
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