Steam is a huge platform for sharing games and game items, as well as the largest service and social network for gamers around the world. To date, there is no gamer computer on which the Steam client is not installed. Let's see why Steam lags, and how to fix this problem. Use the service without brakes and malfunctions!
Possible reasons
First, we’ll reveal a list of possible reasons why Steam is lagging. And then we proceed to eliminate them. So, Steam can slow down due to:
- non-compliance with system requirements;
- poor internet connection;
- high load on Steam servers;
- preventive maintenance;
- problems with program files.
We will analyze each malfunction in more detail and find out why the Steam lags, and is it possible to eliminate it.
System requirements
Steam is just a program for launching and downloading games, as well as exchanging information between players. Because of this, the system requirements for the application on the PC are very low - even an old computer can handle the launch of the program , so this reason is unlikely. Just in case, check your configuration with the following system requirements:
- processor with a frequency of 1 GHz or higher;
- at least 512 MB of RAM;
- operating system Windows XP or later;
- to install the program will require from 500 MB (not including downloaded games).
Internet connection
Steam is fully synchronized with its servers, so it is impossible to fully connect to the system with poor access to the network or its absence. If the reason lies precisely in this, then the Steam main screen will display a corresponding error when loading. Also, all pages of the store, inventory, etc. will take a long time to load. In this case, the problem needs to be solved on the side of connecting the PC to the Internet or troubleshooting the provider. Try rebooting the router and log in to Steam again.
Server issues
The next reason Steam is lagging is server load. This problem is often encountered by active users. In this case, it is not possible to fix this moment on your own - you will have to wait until the Steam workers can restore the service. Also, lags can be during prevention. For example, if you play online with other players, and at this time the connection to the server is interrupted, you cannot open the list of friends, etc. This indicates preventive work on the server. Usually they last no more than an hour. So just wait.
Problems with the client
Now let's see why Steam is not responding or is slow. Often this happens because of the built-in browser, if you use it often. To solve this problem, you need to clear the cache. To do this, open the "Settings" and go to the Web browser tab. In the tab that opens, click "Delete Web Browser Cache". After that, restart the Steam and check the browser is working.
Additionally, you may need to close the process in the task manager. To do this, press CTRL + ALT + Del and in the "Processes" tab close steamwebhelper.exe. Now you know what to do if the Steam lags. Use our tips and play without brakes and lags!