PlainError

Steam Error code: -118 (unable to connect to the server)

Last checked 2026-10-26 · 4 fixes · reviewed answer

TL;DRThis Steam error means the game client cannot reach Steam's servers, usually due to a network problem, firewall block, or temporary server issue on Steam's end.

Most likely cause: Your internet connection is down or unstable

Try first: Check your internet connection

Likely causes

  1. Your internet connection is down or unstablemost likely
  2. Firewall or antivirus is blocking Steampossible
  3. Steam servers are temporarily unavailablepossible
  4. VPN or proxy interfering with the connectionless likely

How to fix it

Safest first: SafeChanges settingsDangerous

  1. Check your internet connectionSafe

    Open a web browser and load a few different websites to confirm you have working internet.

  2. Restart Steam and your computerSafe

    Fully close Steam, restart your PC, then try launching Steam again.

  3. Temporarily disable firewall or antivirusChanges settings

    Turn off any third-party firewall or antivirus software for a test, then retry connecting to Steam.

    ⚠ Re-enable protection immediately after testing.

  4. Disable any VPN or proxyChanges settings

    Turn off VPN software or proxy settings and attempt to connect again.

If that didn't fix it

Visit the Steam server status page in a browser to check for outages.

When to see a technician

Contact a technician if network problems continue even on other devices or applications.

Quick answers

What does Steam Error code: -118 (unable to connect to the server) mean?
This Steam error means the game client cannot reach Steam's servers, usually due to a network problem, firewall block, or temporary server issue on Steam's end.
What causes Steam Error code: -118 (unable to connect to the server)?
Your internet connection is down or unstable. (most likely) Firewall or antivirus is blocking Steam. (possible) Steam servers are temporarily unavailable. (possible) VPN or proxy interfering with the connection. (less likely)
How do I fix Steam Error code: -118 (unable to connect to the server)?
Try these in order, safest first: 1. Check your internet connection. 2. Restart Steam and your computer. 3. Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus. 4. Disable any VPN or proxy.
What if that didn't fix it?
Visit the Steam server status page in a browser to check for outages.
When should I see a technician?
Contact a technician if network problems continue even on other devices or applications.
Did this fix it? Report a problem

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