What does Steam Error Code 118 mean?

The short answer

Steam error code 118 means the Steam client can’t reach the Steam servers, usually because something on your network or computer is blocking the connection.

Why does it happen?

This error typically pops up when you try to load the Steam Store, Community pages, or other online features inside the Steam app. Common causes include:

  • Firewall or antivirus blocking Steam — security software can prevent Steam from connecting to its servers
  • Steam servers are down — sometimes the problem is on Valve’s end, not yours
  • Unstable internet connection — weak or dropping Wi-Fi, or a DNS issue, can trigger this error
  • VPN or proxy interference — these can route your traffic in ways Steam doesn’t like
  • Corrupted Steam cache — old or broken cached data can prevent pages from loading

How to fix it

Try these steps in order:

  1. Check if Steam is down — search “Steam status” online to see if their servers are having issues. If they are, just wait it out
  2. Restart Steam — close it completely (check your system tray) and reopen it
  3. Allow Steam through your firewall — in your firewall or antivirus settings, make sure Steam and its processes (steam.exe, steamwebhelper.exe) are allowed
  4. Disable your VPN or proxy — if you use one, turn it off temporarily and try again
  5. Flush your DNS — open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns, then restart Steam
  6. Clear Steam’s web browser cache — go to Steam Settings, then Web Browser, and click “Delete Web Browser Cache”
  7. Restart your router — unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for it to fully reconnect

When should you worry?

In most cases, this error is temporary or easy to fix. But keep in mind:

  • If it only happens on one network, your ISP or network administrator may be blocking Steam traffic
  • If your firewall keeps re-blocking Steam after you allow it, your antivirus might be overriding your settings — check its own firewall rules separately
  • If nothing works, try reinstalling Steam. Your games will stay on your hard drive as long as you don’t delete the steamapps folder