Steam Disk Write Errors stop users from updating their games or downloading new ones. This error is often accompanied by a message such as:
“An erroe occurred when updating [game](disk write error)”
“Disk write error: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common[game_name]”
It can be frustrating to encounter this error, but there is good news. This guide includes expert-approved fixes to get your games back up and running.
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Why does the Steam Disk Error occur?
Understanding the causes of the problem is essential before attempting to fix it. The most common reasons are:
- Steam will stop downloading corrupt game files if they are missing or damaged.
- Write Protection (Read-Only): If your disk is set to “read-only”, Steam will not be able to save any new files.
- Steam files are either outdated or corrupt: This could be caused by Steam’s cache, or its settings.
- Interference caused by Firewall or Antivirus: Certain security products may mistakenly block Steam’s downloads.
- Hard Drive Issues: A failing drive can lead to write errors.
- Steam won’t be able to install or update a game if the storage is full.
- Bad Sectors On Disk: Physical damages or corrupted sectors can stop Steam from storing data.
Once we have identified the root causes, it is time to test solutions.
Steam Disk Writer Error: How to fix it
To fix the error, follow these steps.
Steam and PC: Restart
Sometimes, a simple reboot can solve the problem.
- Close Steam completely.
- Restart your computer.
- Download the game and open Steam again.
Continue with the next solution if the problem persists.
Steam Download Cache: How to clear it
Write errors can be caused by corrupt cache files.
- Open Steam, and click on Settings.
- Click on Downloads to access the downloads.
- Click on Clear Download Cache to confirm.
- Restart Steam to try again.
Verify Game Files Integrity
Steam can repair corrupt or missing files in a game.
- Open Steam, and then go to Library.
- Click on the game you want to edit and choose Properties.
- Go to Installed files – click Verify integrity of the game files.
- Steam will scan and repair your files.
Remove Write Protection From Your Drive
Steam cannot save files if your disk is protected from writing.
- Open Command Prompt for Admin.
- Type:
diskpart
Press Enter.
- Type:
list disk
Press Enter. Identify your disk number.
- Type:
select disk [your_disk_number]
attributes disk clear readonly
- Restart your PC and try again.
Run Steam as Administrator
Steam may require admin rights to write data.
- Click the Steam shortcut by right-clicking.
- Select Run as administrator.
- Update or install the game.
Change Steam Download Area
Steam servers can be overloaded at times.
- Open Steam, and click on Settings.
- Click on Downloads to access the downloads.
- Under Download Region, select a different region.
- Restart Steam to try again.
Disable Firewall and Antivirus
Steam may be blocked by your security software.
- Disable your firewall and antivirus temporarily.
- Add Steam to the list of programs you can run.
- Download the game again.
Add Steam to your anti-virus settings if the problem is resolved.
Check for Hard Drive Errors
Your hard drive may have bad sectors causing the error.
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type:
chkdsk /f /r C:
- Press Enter and restart your PC.
- Try downloading the game again.
Delete Corrupt Steam Files
If Steam’s own files are corrupt, deleting them may help.
- Close Steam.
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam
Delete these folders:
- steamapps\downloading
- steamapps\temp
Restart Steam and retry the download.
Reinstall Steam
Steam’s reinstallation can resolve deep-rooted problems if it doesn’t work.
- You should backup your steamapps (where the games are located) folder.
- Remove Steam via the Control Panel.
- Steam has a website where you can download and install the most recent version.
- Restore your steamapps folder.
The Frequently Asked Questions
- Steam always says “Disk Error”.
You may experience this due to a corrupted file, write-protection, disk problems, or an antivirus.
- This error can be caused by an aging hard drive.
Steam can’t write to your hard drive if it has bad sectors.
- Does clearing Steam’s cache delete my games?
The cache is only temporary files. It does not remove installed games.
- What happens if none the methods are effective?
Use a different SSD or hard drive if the problem does not resolve.
- How can I tell if my drive is going bad?
Use CHKDSK to check your drive for errors. Monitor drive health using software such as CrystalDiskInfo.
Conclusion
Steam Disk Writer Error can be frustrating, but is usually fixable. You can start with the basics, like restarting Steam or clearing your cache. If you still have problems, disable your antivirus, unprotect the hard drive from write protection and check it.
