Steam Error Code 106
When Steam error code 106 appears, there is always a window that says “Unable to connect to server. Server may be offline,” pops up, which interrupts your gaming experience and complicates interactions with Steam’s platforms.
The causes of the occurrence of the error code 106 in Steam:
- The most prevalent cause is incorrectly configured network settings that hinder the Steam client from forming a reliable connection with its servers.
- Server maintenance or temporary outages can disrupt service continuity.
- Firewalls or antivirus programs may also interfere, causing the system to perceive Steam as a security risk and blocking access.
- Corrupted client files or outdated software can further exacerbate this problem.
Basic troubleshooting steps you can take:
- Power down your Internet router or modem, wait for 30 seconds, and then power it back up. After that, check if the issue has been resolved.
- Steam servers may be offline or dealing with heavy traffic. To verify the status of Steam servers, you can visit either Steam’s official status page or various third-party websites.
- Turn off any VPNS or proxies that you might have active. If Steam functions properly after this, you’ve pinpointed the issue. MiniTool VPN is preferred for fast and safe VPN use.
- Use a professional PC booster to fix your network issue. MiniTool System Booster is highly recommended. It is a comprehensive all-in-one tune-up PC software and can scan, fix issues, clean up your device, and recover lost files for peak performance.
MiniTool System Booster TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
How to Fix Steam Error Code 106
Workaround 1. Flush DNS
Misconfigured networks or DNS problems may prevent Steam from connecting to its servers, causing Steam error code 106. Restoring these settings can enable access once again.
Step 1. Press Win + S to open the Windows search bar and type cmd in the box.
Step 2. Right-click on the Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator.
Step 3. When the User Account Control prompt appears, click the Yes button.
Step 4. In the new window, copy and paste the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /registerdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset
Step 5. Restart your computer and see if the problem is resolved.
Workaround 2. Change Your DNS Settings
Using a more dependable DNS server can enhance connectivity and fix the Steam error code 106. Here’s what to do:
Step 1. In the Windows search bar, type Control Panel and press Enter.
Step 2. Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
Step 2. Right-click on your network connection and choose Properties.
Step 3. Click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and select Properties. Update the DNS server to Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s (1.1.1.1) and click OK.

Workaround 3. Run Steam in Windows 8 Compatibility Mode
To resolve Steam error code 106, consider running it in Windows 8 Compatibility Mode. Applying this mode may enhance stability and optimize performance, allowing for a smoother gaming experience.
Step 1. Right-click the Steam icon on your desktop and select Properties.
Step 2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab, tick mark on Run this program in compatibility mode for under the Compatibility mode section, and select Windows 8 from the drop-down menu.
Step 3. Go to the Settings section and check the box of Run this program as an administrator.

Step 4. Click Apply > OK to save the change.
Workaround 4. Delete Steam Cache
Cache files that are clogged can lead to issues that disrupt Steam’s functionality. After you clear the cache, you should notice that the Store loads as it should.
Step 1. Launch the Steam application and navigate to Steam > Settings.
Step 2. In the left menu, choose the Downloads section.
Step 3. Scroll down to find the Clear Download cache option and click Clear Cache.
Step 4. Then, select the In Game section from the left menu.
Step 5. Under Delete web browser data, hit Delete.
MiniTool Power Data Recovery FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Workaround 5. Check the Firewall Settings
Windows may identify Steam as a trusted program and permit it through the firewall. However, this might not always occur. Here’s how to make sure Steam obtains the required permissions:
Step 1. Temporarily disable or remove your third-party anti-malware software. Type Control Panel in the Windows search and hit Enter.
Step 2. Navigate to System and Security and select Windows Defender Firewall.
Step 3. On the left side of the screen, click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
Step 4. Click Change settings. If you are not logged in as an administrator, you will need to provide a password.
Step 5. Scroll down and allow Private and Public access for these entries: Steam, Steam Web Helper.
Step 6. Finally, click OK.
Final Words
Resolving Steam error code 106 is crucial for uninterrupted gaming sessions. This post offers five solutions and you can try them one by one. Hope the information can be helpful for you.
User Comments :