How to fix 'The Steam Client Service service failed to start' error in Windows?

Steam is one of the most used video game distribution platforms in the world, but users face some errors once in a while that disturb their experience. One such error is the “Steam Client Service service failed to start” error, which mostly occurs in the Event Viewer.

The full message reads, “The Steam Client Service service failed to start. The service did not respond to the start or control request in a timely fashion.” That means that Steam won't auto-launch when your computer boots up until it's rectified, and it may even prevent you from accessing or upgrading games on its platform.

The Steam Client Service service failed to start error usually occurs when the important background process that manages Steam's functions is unable to initialize, such as updating games, synchronizing information with the cloud, and licensing. Users may be able to launch Steam themselves, but failure to automatically launch the service will result in inconveniences such as not being able to update games and data synchronization issues.

The reason for this problem may lie in a few factors that include system configuration, where settings of services are incorrect, or user permissions that may be lacking, and third-party application conflicts, which may also include antivirus software. Moreover, corruption or outdated versions of Steam files, slow performance of the system during boot, and Windows updates that can alter system settings may impede the ability for the service to start up in due time.

The answer is to check the Steam Client Service's settings, make sure it is configured correctly, and identify and resolve any system-level issues or conflicts preventing it from launching. Reinstalling or repairing Steam might occasionally be effective. The key to preventing such problems is to keep both Windows and Steam updated.

Although not all Event Viewer errors require immediate action, resolving this one can ensure that Steam operates smoothly. For detailed solutions, instructions are provided below. Alternatively, you can use the FortectMac Washing Machine X9 PC repair tool to automatically diagnose and address underlying Windows issues related to this issue.

Fix 1. Install the latest Windows updates

Outdated system components can interfere with services like the Steam Client Service. Installing the latest Windows updates ensures your system is up to date with all necessary patches and improvements.

• Type Updates in Windows search and press Enter.
• Here, click Check for updates or Install updates (if available).
• Wait till Windows downloads and installs all the necessary files.
• If optional updates are available, install them as well.
• Reboot your computer to implement the changes.

Fix 2. Clear cache files

Corrupted or missing files in your Steam installation can prevent the Steam Client Service from starting. Repairing or reinstalling Steam can resolve this issue.

• Open the Steam app.
• Go to Steam > Settings.
• Select the Downloads section on the left.
• Scroll down to the Clear Download cache section.
• Click Clear Cache.
• Next, go to the In Game section on the left.
• Under Delete web browser data, click on Delete.

Fix 3. Disable third-party antivirus or firewall

Antivirus or firewall software can block Steam’s services from starting properly. Temporarily disabling them may help fix the issue.

• Open your antivirus.
• Look for an option to temporarily disable it (usually found in settings or security options).
• Restart your computer and try launching Steam again.
• If Steam works, check your antivirus settings and add it to exception list.

If it still doesn't work, you should also make sure that Steam is allowed through Windows Defender Firewall:

• Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
• Go to System and Security and click on Windows Defender Firewall.
• On the left side of the window, click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
• Click Change settings (if you are not on an administrator account, you will be asked to enter a password).
• Scroll down and enable Private and Public access to the following entries:
  Steam
  Steam Web Helper
• Finally, click OK.

Fix 4. Check Steam Client Service settings

The Steam Client Service may be misconfigured, preventing it from starting. Ensuring it's set to run automatically may fix the issue.

• Type Services in Windows search and press Enter.
• Scroll down and locate Steam Client Service.
• Right-click and select Properties.
• Under the General tab, make sure the Startup type is set to Automatic.
• If the service is not running, click Start and then OK.

Fix 5. Run SFC and DISM

Corrupted system files can interfere with services like Steam. Running the SFC and DISM tools can fix these problems.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• User Account Control window will show up – click Yes when prompted.
• In the Command Prompt window, copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to complete – this might take a while, depending on your system configuration and disk size.
• Once the SFC scan is finished, run the following set of DISM commands, pressing Enter after each one:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• After completing the DISM commands, restart your computer.

Fix 6. Update graphics drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can interfere with Steam’s functionality. Updating your drivers can ensure smooth performance.

• Right-click on the Start and select Device Manager from the menu.
• Expand the Display adapters section.
• Right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.
• Pick Search automatically for drivers.
• If updates are found, allow them to install.
• Restart your system after installing the update.
• For a faster way to update your drivers, you can always rely on tools like DriverFix.

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