Fix: Failed to Connect to Steam Error Code 211

After a recent Steam update, users are unable to launch select games and are hit with the error code 211. This could be triggered by old graphic drivers or an unstable network.

How do I fix failed to connect to Steam error code 211?

1. Run Steam as an administrator

1. Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E keys.
2. Then open the Steam folder in File Explorer, which will usually be installed at C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam by default.
3. Choose the Compatibility tab. Check the Run this program as an administrator and click Apply and OK to save changes.
4. Now start the game again and check if the error 211 makes an appearance.

2. Reset Steam’s host file

1. Hit the Windows key, type Notepad in the search bar and click Open.
2. Paste the following path: C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts
3. Check for any Steam or Steam game-related line and copy it.
4. Hit the Windows key, type Notepad in the search bar and click Run as administrator.
5. Paste the lines in 3 above then save it. Move the newly created file to the location in 2 and delete the initial file.

3. Flush the DNS

1. Use the following keyboard shortcut: Windows + R, then type cmd and click OK.
2. In the opened window, input the following command, then press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns
3. Now, launch Steam and check if Error Code 211 persists.

4. Change your DNS Address

1. Press simultaneously on the following keys to open the Windows Run dialog box: Windows + R.
2. Type ncpa.cpl, then click the OK option. It will open the Network Connections Control Panel applet.
3. There, right-click your Internet connection and select Properties.
4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4, then select the Properties button.
5. Choose to Use the following DNS server addresses radio button.
6. Next, input 8.8.8.8 in the Preferred DNS server box and 8.8.4.4 in the Alternate DNS section.
7. Press the OK button on the Internet Protocol Version 4 window.

5. Clear Steam cache

1. Launch the Steam client.
2. Click on the Steam button at the top.
3. Click on Settings.
4. Switch to the Downloads tab.
5. Hit the CLEAR DOWNLOAD CACHE button.
6. Click OK and relaunch the Steam client.

6. Resolve driver issues

1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
2. Navigate to your Network adapter, right-click on it, and select Update driver.
3. Select Search automatically for updated drivers.

Also, check your graphic drivers and ensure they’re up-to-date.

7. Use a VPN

1. Press the Windows key and select Settings.
2. Next, select Network & internet and click on VPN in the right-side menu.
3. Click on Add VPN and follow the prompts to enable it.
4. Try logging in again and see if the error code 211 on Steam persists.

Other troubleshooting methods worth trying include resetting your network or trying another connection if available.

Unfortunately, Steam is not new to connection errors so should you encounter another Steam network error, check out our article on how to go about it.

We’ve also dissected some common Steam errors that you may run into and their quick fixes so feel free to go through it as well.

That’s about it but if you have any other solution that worked for you but not mentioned here, feel free to let us know in the comment section below.