When an error appears on the computer, it must be fixed. Especially when it affects the performance of individual components of the system. In this article we will talk about the steam_api.dll library: what kind of file it is, why there is an error associated with it, and how to fix it. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to do this.
Definition
Before proceeding to a detailed description of troubleshooting methods, it is worthwhile to define the file itself. After all, we only know that this steam_api.dll is the cause of the error, but we do not know what this library is.
So, by the very name it becomes clear that this file is a component of the Steam program. It is installed with the application itself. Its main task is to control game licenses. In other words, if you didn’t buy the game in Steam, but downloaded RePack or hacked it using Crack, this library will track this and prevent the game from starting.
Now we know the answer to the question "steam_api.dll - what is this?", But this is not enough to solve the problems, so let's move on.
Reasons for the appearance
So, we know that this steam_api.dll is causing the error, but why and how? Answers to these questions will now be given.
An error with the name of any library is associated with only three points: if the DLL file is missing from the computer, if it is damaged or if it has an outdated version. Fortunately, the solutions are suitable for all three points, so you do not have to look for an individual.
In our case, the error most often occurs due to the following:
- inadvertently deleting a file from a computer;
- antivirus effects;
- virus infection;
- system crash.
Remedy number 1: download and install
Now we will talk about how to install steam_api.dll on a computer, after downloading this file from the Internet. This method is good because regardless of the cause of the error, it will still help to eliminate it.
So, to fix the error, you need to perform the following algorithm of actions:
- Open any search engine in a browser.
- Search for "download steam_api.dll".
- Go to the appropriate link.
- Download the file to your computer.
- Move it or unzip it along the path "C: \ Windows \ System32" (if the system is 32-bit) or "C: \ Windows \ SysWOW64" (if the system is 64-bit).
After that, the error with the missing or damaged library should disappear. But if this did not happen, then use other methods that are presented in this article.
Solution # 2: using the program
If for some reason you could not use the previous method or it simply did not help you, then you can use a special program to fix the error. Steam_api.dll with its help will be automatically downloaded and installed in the correct directory. The name of this program is DLL-Files.com - download it and install it on your computer. After that, do the following:
- Open the app.
- In the search bar, enter the name of the library.
- Search.
- Click on the found library.
- Click Install.
After that, the error should be fixed. If this does not happen, then proceed to the next method.
Remedy number 3: anti-virus manipulations
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, the library file can be quarantined by antivirus on suspicion of a security risk. In this case, if you are sure that it is safe, you must include it in the antivirus exclusion list. Unfortunately, in each antivirus program this is done differently, but you need to look for this list in the settings.
We also recommend that you scan the entire system, because the antivirus has not just quarantined it. It is possible that your system has a virus that somehow affects steam_api.dll.
Remedy number 4: system recovery
Another way to fix the problem is system recovery. This one hundred percent option will help you deal with the error, but it assumes there is a recovery point that was created before the problem appeared. If you don’t have one, then you can safely skip this method and move on to the next. Well, if you have a recovery point, then follow these steps:
- Open the Start menu.
- Go to the "Standard" folder.
- In it, open the "Utilities" folder.
- Select the System Restore utility.
After that, the recovery wizard window will open. Following his instructions, perform this process.
Remedy number 5: reinstall Steam
If the steam_api.dll error still haunts you, then as an option you can try reinstalling Steam itself. By the way, it is recommended that before you delete it, copy all installed game components and the executable file to another folder. These objects are located on the path "C: \ Program Files \ Steam". After that, you can proceed to uninstall. This is done as simple as possible:
- Go to the start menu.
- Open the Control Panel.
- Click on the "Programs and Features" section.
- Find Steam in the list of programs.
- Click on it.
- Select "Delete."
After removal, download the program from the official site again and before installation, just in case, turn off the antivirus. After all this, do not forget to move back all previously copied objects.