Error Code E2 on Steam: 5 Ways to Fix it
Clearing the htmlcache folder can often help with this error
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If you encounter Steam error code E2, you won’t be able to log in properly and play your favorite games, and this can be a problem, however, there are ways to fix this issue, and in today’s guide, we’re going to show you how to do that.
What is Steam code error 2?
This is a server error, and it can appear because the service is overloaded or due to other network problems.
How can I fix Steam error code E2?
Before trying anything else, try waiting for a couple of hours. Alternatively, changing your IP address with a VPN can also help.
1. Clear the htmlcache folder
- Close Steam completely.
- Press Windows key + R and enter %localappdata%.
- A new window will appear.
- Navigate into a Steam directory and delete the htmlcache folder.
After doing that, check if the error is gone.
2. Flush the DNS
- Press the Windows key + S and type cmd. Choose Run as administrator.
- Next, run
ipconfig /flushdns
- Close Command Prompt.
3. Use the QR code
- Open the Steam mobile app.
- Tap on Add authenticator and enter the code sent to your phone number.
- Next, try to log in to Steam on your PC. You’ll see a QR code on your PC.
- Tap the Shield icon on the mobile app.
- Scan the QR code with your phone.
- Confirm that you want to sign in.
After doing that, the Steam error code E2 should be gone.
4. Use the Compatibility mode
- Close Steam entirely.
- Next, locate the Steam shortcut, right-click it, and choose Properties.
- Navigate to the Compatibility tab and check Run this program in Compatibility mode for and select Windows 8 from the list.
- Save changes.
5. Make sure that the Steam folder can be accessed by Users group
- Locate the Steam installation directory.
- Right-click it and choose Properties.
- Navigate to the Security tab and click on Edit.
- Next, enter Users in the Enter the object names to select field and click OK.
- Select the Users group and give it Full control permissions.
- Save changes.
This is a common error, and users reported Steam error code 2 while adding to the cart, when using Workshop, or on Steam Deck.
In most cases, this is just a network glitch, and it can be fixed with the instructions from this guide, so don’t hesitate to try them.  Recently we covered a similar issue in our Steam error code E20 guide, so don’t miss it.
Another common error is Steam error code E87 and we have a guide on it as well.
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