Steam Error Code E20 Fix – Complete Guide

Steam Error Code E20 usually appears when the Steam client fails to connect properly to its servers. This issue is often caused by corrupted cache files, network configuration problems, or Steam running without proper permissions. Follow the steps below carefully to resolve the error and restore normal Steam functionality.

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Fix 1: End All Steam Processes

Before applying any fixes, ensure Steam is completely closed.

Steps to End Steam Processes

1. Open the Search bar
2. Type Task Manager and open it
3. Go to the Details tab
4. Scroll down and locate all Steam-related processes
5. Right-click each process and select End task

Make sure no Steam processes are running in the background before continuing.

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Fix 2: Run Steam as Administrator

Running Steam without administrative privileges can cause connection errors.

Steps to Enable Administrator Mode

1. Type Steam in the Search bar
2. Right-click the Steam app
3. Select Open file location
4. Right-click Steam.exe
5. Select Properties
6. Open the Compatibility tab
7. Check Run this program as an administrator
8. Click OK to save changes

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Fix 3: Change DNS Server Settings

Incorrect or slow DNS servers can prevent Steam from connecting properly.

Steps to Change DNS Settings

1. Type Network Connections in the Search bar and open it
2. Right-click your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
3. Select Properties
4. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses
6. Enter the following values:
   • Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4
7. Click OK to save changes

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Fix 4: Flush DNS Cache

Clearing the DNS cache helps resolve network-related Steam errors.

Steps to Flush DNS

1. Type CMD in the Search bar
2. Right-click Command Prompt
3. Select Run as administrator
4. Enter the following command: ipconfig /flushdns
5. Press Enter

After completing this step, restart your PC.

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Fix 5: Clear Steam App Cache

Corrupted cache files can trigger Steam Error Code E20.

Steps to Clear Steam Cache

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type %appdata% and press Enter
3. Locate the Steam folder
4. Delete the entire Steam folder
5. Restart your computer

Steam will automatically recreate the required files on the next launch.

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Conclusion

Steam Error Code E20 is usually caused by network issues, corrupted cache files, or insufficient permissions. Ending Steam processes, changing DNS settings, flushing DNS cache, and clearing the Steam app data resolve the problem in most cases.