Steam Error Code 105 | 100% Working Fix (December 2024 Updated)

Lately, a lot of users have been experiencing a niggling little problem - the infamous Steam error code 105. So, here I am, like your handy go-to guide who's about to show you just how to fix Steam error code 105. This error usually pops up when you're trying to access the Steam page and prevents you from accessing your favorite games.

Now for some of you out there, this may seem like a minor hiccup not worth losing sleep over. Yet, I know there's another bunch of dedicated gaming enthusiasts for whom such roadblocks can trigger major frustration.

Not being able to continue your thrilling gaming adventure can indeed be disappointing. So let's dive straight into understanding why this problem occurs and how we can swiftly resolve it.

Understanding Steam Error Code 105

So you're probably wondering, what is this fiddly Steam error code 105? I faced it too and trust me, it was frustrating! In techie terms, it's an error that occurs due to a failed network connection between your computer and the Steam server.

When you're pumped up for your game and this error pops up, literally dampening your spirits – it essentially means that Steam cannot reach the content servers.

In most cases, the full message reads: Unable to connect to server. Server may be offline or you may not be connected to the internet. However, even with an active internet connection, this issue can persist due to several reasons.

A host of causes ranging from outdated DNS settings or conflicts in DNS caches, interference by firewall configurations (or security software), and Steam undergoing maintenance or updates - can lead to Steam launching with this unpleasant error code 105. Don't panic though! A little bit of troubleshooting should take care of it completely.

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Reasons for Steam Error Code 105

There can be numerous reasons causing the Steam error code 105. Below, I've gathered some of the most common causes to give you a better understanding of what might be going wrong.

1. Network Connectivity Issues

The first and foremost possible cause is network connectivity issues. Steam is an online platform and requires a stable internet connection for its smooth operation. If your Internet connection is intermittent or unusually slow, you might encounter this error.

2. Firewall or Antivirus Software Blocking Steam

Another frequently encountered reason for this error is your firewall or antivirus software acting up. These security programs may view Steam as a potential threat, thereby blocking its access. The result? You guessed it right – the notorious error code 105!

3. DNS Cache Conflicts

Your DNS cache might also play the demon here. For those who aren't familiar with this term, let me explain it in simple words – Your DNS cache stores the IP addresses of web servers that contain web pages that you have recently viewed.

If there's a recent change in the IP address of the web server, you may face problems accessing it until your DNS cache updates itself with the new IP address.

4. Steam Server Maintenance or Downtime

Server maintenance or downtime may also lead to this error. Like any other server-based platform, Steam also needs regular maintenance and updating to function properly.

During these periods, certain parts or all of Steam can be inaccessible causing users to encounter error messages including error code 105!

Each one of these issues possesses its own set of unique challenges along with potential solutions which we'll uncover as we proceed further into steam troubleshooting methods.

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How to Fix the Steam Error Code 105 in 2024?

Error code 105 can be quite a battleground for Steam users, but the good news is, there are several established methods that have solved this error for many.

These solutions aren't just for experts or tech-savvy individuals; they're simple enough for anyone to try. So, without further ado, let's knitpick these solutions!

1. Clear the DNS Cache

The first method on our list is clearing the DNS cache. A DNS cache is a temporary database that stores information about all recent visits and attempted visits to websites. Sometimes, this stored data can cause conflicts that lead to error code 105. Clearing the DNS cache may help resolve these conflicts.

This process is simple:

• Open the Command Prompt by typing 'cmd' into your search bar and running it as administrator.
• In the Command Prompt window, type 'ipconfig /flushdns' and hit Enter.
• A confirmation stating 'Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache' will indicate you've done right.

Remember: After clearing your DNS cache, restart your system before checking if Steam works.

2. Uninstall the Adblocker Application

Ad-blocker applications could be another reason behind this error code. Some ad-blocker settings may interfere with Steam's network connection leading to error 105. If you're using one such application, uninstalling it might do the trick.

Here are some steps:

• Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
• Find your AdBlock application in the list of installed programs,
• Right-click on it and select Uninstall, then follow any remaining instructions provided.
• Restart your computer afterward.

3. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

Another common cause of error code 105 could be overzealous antivirus or firewall settings that might mistakenly block certain elements of Steam from functioning properly. “But isn’t my antivirus important?”, you ask. Don’t worry! I’m not asking you to disable them indefinitely - only temporarily to test if this fixes Steam.

Follow these general steps:

• Locate your antivirus icon in your system tray (usually in the lower-right corner).
• Right-click on it and look for an option somewhat like “Disable Protection” or “Pause Protection”.
• Select an appropriate duration (the smallest amount of time offered is usually best).

With regards to firewalls -

• Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall
• Click 'Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off (you might have to enter admin credentials)
• Select 'Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)' for both public and private network settings.

Afterward, don’t forget to re-enable them!

Doing all these should solve Steam's infamous error code 105 allowing you to enjoy seamless gaming.

4. Flush the DNS settings

The accumulated DNS cache could clash with Steam, leading to the persistent Error Code 105. Flushing DNS will aid in renewing this information accumulated and possibly solve this issue. To execute this command, follow these steps:

• Click Start then type cmd and press Enter.
• In the command prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

This command effectively flushes your DNS resolver cache.

5. Disable proxy settings

At times, proxy settings can interfere with Steam’s operations causing Error Code 105 to appear. Disabling them may subsidize this problem

To disable your proxy settings in Windows:

• Click on Start and navigate to the Settings
• Open up your network & Internet settings, then select Proxy.
• Turn off every toggle bar under Manual and Automatic Proxy Setup.

Remember to 'Reset all changes back once troubleshooting is finished'.

6. Change the DNS server address

You may also try switching your DNS servers which might resolve Steam's Error Code 105 problem.

For Windows Devices:

• Start with opening up the "Network & Sharing Center". To do this quickly, click Win + R, type ncpa.cpl in it and hit enter.
• Right-click on whichever network you're connected to (either WiFi or Ethernet), and choose 'Properties'.
• Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) then click on properties again.
• Here, at the bottom of this box, you'll see a section for entering preferred and alternate DNS server addresses.
• Enter "8 . 8 . 8 . 8" for preferred and "8 . 8 . 4 . 4" for alternate ones - which are Google's global DNS.
• Click 'OK' twice to save.

Now restart your computer so changes can take effect properly.

For Routers:

Alter your router’s DNS setting is slightly complex because each router has different interface designs. Usually, it’s located under WAN settings that one can find after logging into their router's admin panel using its IP address combination saved at its bottom usually.

Make sure after any change, always restart both of these devices for confirmation whether the error still persists or it got sorted out finally.

7. Reset the TCP/IP Stack

Resetting the TCP/IP stack is a technical process, but don't worry, I'll break it down for you into simple steps. The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is a crucial communication protocol that ensures smooth Internet connectivity.

If there's an issue in the settings of this protocol, then you may suffer from Steam error code 105. To reset it:

• Click on 'Start', then type 'cmd' in the search bar.
• Right-click on 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
• In the command prompt window, type 'netsh int ip reset reset.log' and press Enter.
• Reboot your computer to apply these changes.

You have now reset your TCP/IP Stack successfully!

8. Disable Adblockers Add-ons

Sometimes, certain add-ons on your browser might be causing interference with Steam's performance on your devices, leading to Steam error 105.

Chrome:

• Open Google Chrome
• Click on the three vertical dots at the top-right corner of your screen
• Choose 'More Tools' > 'Extensions'
• Find AdBlocker and click on the Remove tab

Microsoft Edge:

• Open Edge
• Click on the three horizontal dots at the top right of the screen
• Go to 'Extensions'
• Click on AdBlocker, then select Uninstall

Firefox:

• Open Firefox
• Click the menu (three horizontal lines) at the top-right corner
• Select 'Add-ons and Themes
• Find AdBlocker in the extensions list and choose to disable or remove

Remember to restart your browser after these steps for them to take effect!

9. Disable IPv6

IPv6 is an Internet Layer protocol for packet-switched internetworking that might cause conflicts with Steam resulting in this dreadful error 105.

To disable IPv6,

• Open Control Panel
• Navigate to "Network and Internet" > "Network and Sharing Center"
• Select “Change adapter settings"
• Right-click on your active Network Connection (WiFi or Ethernet)
• Choose "Properties"
• Uncheck "Internet Version Protocol 6 (IPV6)"
• Click OK
• Restart your device

10. Reinstall Steam

If all else fails, reinstallation can be your last resort! It's like giving a fresh start to everything and annihilating any corrupted files that could be causing Steam to malfunction.

Firstly uninstall Steam:

• Go to Control Panel
• Select Uninstall a program
• Find Steam from the list and double click
• Confirm by clicking "Yes"

Next, install Steam anew:

1. Navigate Steam Download Page
2. Click "Install Steam Now"
3. Follow instructions

And Voila! You've successfully reinstalled Steam!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it. Fixing the maddening Steam Error Code 105 might seem a bit tiresome or complicated, but trust me, it's pretty manageable with the right steps.

All you need is a little patience and to follow the detailed steps I've listed with precision. So whether it's resetting your TCP/IP stack, disabling your Adblocker add-on on the browser, switching off IPv6 protocol, or even reinstalling Steam altogether - these are all tried and tested methods to keep that gaming thrill alive.

Each of these solutions tackles more than just one technical glitch - it handles possible issues that stem from various underlying causes. So even if you have to run through all of them before hitting the jackpot, you're effectively ensuring smooth gameplay for the future too.

Oh and remember, if this issue arises again - just revisit this guide! The world of gaming waits for no one! Best of luck fighting off those virtual baddies.