Steam error code e87

Gaming enthusiasts are no strangers to Steam, the leading digital distribution platform for PC games. While it usually provides a seamless experience, users occasionally encounter hurdles. One such hiccup is the notorious steam error code e87. Ever faced this issue? Or simply looking to be prepared? Dive right in to learn the reasons behind it and the effective steps to remedy the situation.

Reasons Behind Steam Error Code E87

Understanding a problem’s origin often aids in its resolution. So, before delving into solutions, let’s get acquainted with the causes:

1. Network Glitches: A common culprit, an unstable or slow connection, often results in error messages.
2. Server Outages: Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end. Steam servers occasionally undergo maintenance or face unexpected outages.
3. Corrupted Game Files: A damaged or missing file can throw off the entire system.
4. Outdated Software: Not updating Steam or the game in question can also lead to this error.

How to fix Steam Error Code E87?

Fix 1: Verifying the Integrity of Game Files

One of the most reliable methods to tackle the steam error code e87 is by verifying the integrity of game files. This process allows Steam to check and ensure all files associated with the game are intact and uncorrupted. Here’s a detailed guide on how to go about it:

• Step 1: Launch Steam: Begin by opening the Steam client on your computer. Ensure you’re signed in to your account. If you aren’t, you might not access your game library.
• Step 2: Navigate to the Library: Once in the Steam client, locate the Library tab at the top. Clicking on this will display all the games associated with your account.
• Step 3: Select the Problematic Game: In the list of games, find the one causing the steam error code e87. It’s vital to pick the right game, as the subsequent steps will focus solely on it.
• Step 4: Access Properties: Right-click on the chosen game title. A dropdown menu will appear. From this list, opt for Properties. This will open a new window with various tabs related to the game’s settings.
• Step 5: Go to Local Files: In the Properties window, identify the tab labeled Local Files and click on it. This section provides options related to the game files stored on your computer.
• Step 6: Verify Integrity of Game Files: Within the Local Files tab, you’ll notice a button named Verify Integrity of Game Files. Click on it. Steam will then commence its analysis. During this period, it’ll compare the game files on your computer with the latest version available on its servers. If discrepancies or corruptions are detected, Steam will automatically rectify them by downloading the required files.
• Step 7: Await Completion: The verification process might take some time, contingent on the game’s size and your internet speed. It’s crucial to let it run its course without interruption. Halting it prematurely can lead to further issues.
• Step 8: Restart Steam: Once the verification concludes, it’s a good practice to exit Steam and then relaunch it. This ensures all changes take effect.
• Step 9: Play the Game: Try launching the game. In many instances, the error should now be resolved. If not, there might be other underlying issues which could require different troubleshooting techniques.

By following these meticulous steps, gamers can ensure that corrupted or missing files aren’t the root cause of the steam error code e87. Always remember, when it comes to technical glitches, a systematic and detailed approach often yields the best results.

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Fix 2: Clearing Steam’s Download Cache

A less-known, yet effective, solution to the steam error code e87 is clearing Steam’s download cache. The cache is essentially a storage space where temporary data is held, allowing Steam to load faster. Over time, this cache can become cluttered, potentially leading to errors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely clear this cache:

• Step 1: Open Steam Client: Initiate by launching the Steam client on your desktop. Make sure you’re logged into your account, as you’ll need access to settings specific to your profile.
• Step 2: Access Settings: On the top left corner, you’ll find the “Steam” menu. Click on it and from the dropdown list, select Settings. This will bring up a new window with multiple tabs catering to different functionalities.
• Step 3: Navigate to Downloads: Within the Settings window, spot the tab labeled Downloads. This tab controls all the download-related settings for your Steam client.
• Step 4: Clear Download Cache: Towards the bottom of the Downloads tab, there’s a button named Clear Download Cache. By clicking on this, you’ll be prompted with a confirmation message to ensure you wish to delete these temporary files.
• Step 5: Confirm Action: Click the OK or Confirm button on the prompt. This action will clear all cached data. As a result, you may also get logged out of the Steam client.
• Step 6: Relogin to Steam: Since clearing cache often logs you out, re-enter your credentials to log back into Steam. It’s a good time to double-check your credentials, so you don’t face login issues.
• Step 7: Test the Game: Once logged back in, attempt to launch the game that was showing the steam error code e87. In numerous cases, clearing the cache has resolved the issue.
• Step 8: Reset Internet Connection: If the error persists, consider restarting your internet connection. Since you’ve altered download settings, ensuring a fresh connection might help.

Clearing the download cache is a safe operation and won’t harm your installed games or saved progress. However, it does act as a refresh button for Steam’s temporary data, which can often mend various error codes, including e87. Remember, regular maintenance of software, like clearing caches, can preemptively tackle many potential hitches.

Fix 3: Running Steam as Administrator

Another effective method to resolve the steam error code e87 is to run the Steam client as an administrator. Some game files or operations might require elevated privileges to function correctly, and granting them can often rectify issues. Here’s a detailed walkthrough on how to execute this:

• Step 1: Close Existing Steam Processes: Before altering any settings, ensure that Steam isn’t currently running. Check your system tray (usually at the bottom right of your screen) to confirm that Steam isn’t running in the background. If it is, right-click the Steam icon and select Exit.
• Step 2: Navigate to Steam Shortcut: Find the Steam shortcut on your desktop. If you don’t have one, you can navigate to the folder where Steam is installed (typically, this would be C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam).
• Step 3: Right-Click for Properties: Once you’ve located the Steam icon, right-click on it. From the context menu, select Properties. This action will bring up a new window with various tabs.
• Step 4: Access Compatibility Tab: In the Properties window, look for the tab named Compatibility and click on it.
• Step 5: Run as Administrator: Within the Compatibility tab, you’ll find a checkbox labeled Run this program as an administrator. Ensure that this box is checked. If it isn’t, click on it to enable this setting.
• Step 6: Apply Changes: After checking the box, click on the Apply button at the bottom of the window, followed by OK. This action will save your changes.
• Step 7: Launch Steam with Elevated Privileges: Now, double-click the Steam icon. Since you’ve adjusted its permissions, Windows might ask for confirmation before opening Steam with administrative rights. Confirm the prompt.
• Step 8: Test the Game: Once inside the Steam client, attempt to play the game that was producing the steam error code e87. With the elevated permissions, there’s a good chance the error might have been resolved.
• Step 9: Consider Permanent Change: If running Steam as an administrator solves the issue, you might want to keep this setting permanent. If not, remember to revert the changes to avoid unnecessary system prompts in the future.

Running applications as an administrator should be done with caution. While it’s safe for well-known apps like Steam, be wary of granting elevated privileges to unfamiliar software. The goal is seamless gaming, but system security remains paramount.

Fix 4: Update Graphics Drivers

At times, the steam error code e87 may arise due to outdated or corrupted graphics drivers. Graphics drivers play a pivotal role in the proper functioning of games, and ensuring they’re up-to-date can resolve a plethora of gaming-related errors. Let’s walk through the process:

• Step 1: Identify Your Graphics Card: Before updating, you need to know which graphics card your system uses. Right-click on the Windows Start button and select Device Manager. Expand the ‘Display adapters’ section, and you’ll see the name of your graphics card.
• Step 2: Visit the Official Graphics Card Manufacturer’s Website: There are primarily three big players in the graphics card industry: NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel. Based on your graphics card’s name, visit the respective website:
  • NVIDIA users: NVIDIA Driver Downloads
  • AMD users: AMD Driver Downloads
  • Intel users: Intel Driver & Support Assistant
• Step 3: Locate Your Specific Driver: Each website will have its search mechanism or tool. Enter the specifics of your graphics card to find the latest available driver. It’s essential to download the correct version tailored to your system (e.g., 32-bit vs. 64-bit).
• Step 4: Download the Driver: Once you’ve located the right driver, click on the download option. Ensure you’re downloading from the official website to avoid potential security risks.
• Step 5: Install the Driver: After downloading, locate the executable (.exe) file, usually in the ‘Downloads’ folder, and double-click it to initiate the installation. Follow the on-screen prompts. Installing might require you to accept terms, choose installation locations, or select specific components.
• Step 6: Restart Your Computer: Post installation, it’s a good practice to restart your computer. This action ensures the new drivers are correctly integrated.
• Step 7: Launch Steam and Test the Game: With updated graphics drivers in place, open Steam and try running the game that was displaying the steam error code e87.
• Step 8: Consider Driver Update Tools: If you wish to automate the driver update process in the future, several third-party tools can detect and update outdated drivers. Examples include Driver Booster and Driver Easy. However, always approach third-party software with caution.

Having the latest graphics drivers not only addresses specific issues like the steam error code e87 but also generally enhances gaming performance and visual quality. Regularly checking for driver updates ensures an optimal gaming experience.

 Fix 5: Resetting Steam Configuration

On occasion, the steam error code e87 could stem from misconfigurations within Steam itself. Resetting the Steam configuration can often rectify these irregularities and provide a fresh slate for the client to operate. Here’s a detailed approach to this solution:

• Step 1: Ensure All Steam Tasks are Closed: Before making any changes, confirm that there are no ongoing Steam processes. Close the Steam client if it’s open. To be thorough, open Task Manager (by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc), find any Steam-related tasks, right-click on them and select End Task.
• Step 2: Open the Run Dialog: Press the Windows + R keys simultaneously. This combination will bring up the Run dialog box.
• Step 3: Enter the Steam Reset Command: In the Run dialog, type in the following command: steam://flushconfig and then press Enter.
• Step 4: Confirm the Action: A prompt will pop up, cautioning you about the implications of the command. This action will clear your download cache, reset your local configuration, and restart Steam. Confirm and proceed.
• Step 5: Re-login to Steam: After the configuration reset, Steam will ask you to log in again. Enter your credentials carefully, as any wrong attempt could lock you out temporarily.
• Step 6: Reconfigure Settings: Any personal settings you had previously customized in Steam would be reverted to default after this reset. If you had specific preferences, you might need to set them up again.
• Step 7: Test the Game: With a fresh configuration, launch the game that was previously showing the steam error code e87. Chances are, with misconfigurations eliminated, the game will now run smoothly.
• Step 8: Backup Important Data: In the future, to prevent potential data loss or time-consuming resets, consider backing up important game saves or configurations. Steam has a built-in backup feature for games, and for configurations, manual file backups can be done periodically.

Configuration resets are potent in ironing out any creases caused by misconfigurations or glitches within the Steam client itself. This fix, coupled with others, broadens the troubleshooting scope, ensuring users have a variety of methods to combat the steam error code e87 effectively.

Fix 6: Reinstalling Steam Client

While it may sound a bit drastic, reinstalling the Steam client can effectively eliminate persistent issues like the steam error code e87. A fresh installation gets rid of any corrupted files or misconfigurations. Before diving into the steps, remember that this process will not affect your installed games, but it’s always wise to back up any essential data as a precaution.

• Step 1: Backup Essential Data: Navigate to your Steam directory (default is C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam) and look for the steamapps folder. This folder contains all your game installations. Copy it to a safe location as a backup.
• Step 2: Uninstall Steam: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Type in appwiz.cpl and press Enter. This will open the list of installed programs on your computer. Find Steam in the list, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
• Step 3: Delete Remaining Steam Files: Post uninstallation, navigate to your Steam directory again. Delete any leftover files to ensure a clean slate. However, be cautious not to delete the backup of the steamapps folder you made.
• Step 4: Download Latest Steam Version: Visit the official Steam website and download the latest client version.
• Step 5: Install Steam: Once the download finishes, run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the Steam client.
• Step 6: Restore Game Files: After installation, navigate to the new Steam directory. Replace the newly created steamapps folder with the backup you made earlier. This action ensures all your games and related data are in place.
• Step 7: Launch Steam and Login: Open the newly installed Steam client and log in using your credentials.
• Step 8: Verify Game Installations: Though you’ve restored the steamapps folder, it’s a good practice to verify the integrity of game files (as discussed in Fix 1) for a couple of your primary games. This ensures everything is intact.
• Step 9: Test the Game: After all these measures, try playing the game that was generating the steam error code e87. With a fresh installation, the likelihood of encountering the error should be significantly reduced.

Reinstalling software is a time-tested method of rectifying persistent issues. It acts as a hard reset, often eliminating intricate problems that other methods might miss. When adopting this approach, always remember the importance of backups. They safeguard against any potential data loss and ensure a smoother transition post-reinstallation.

Fix 7: Clearing Steam’s Web Browser Cache

Steam incorporates a built-in web browser that’s utilized for various functions, including browsing the store, community forums, and more. Sometimes, cache or cookies related to this browser can lead to errors like steam error code e87. Clearing out this cache might just be the solution you need.

• Step 1: Launch Steam Client: Open your Steam client. Make sure you’re logged into your account.
• Step 2: Navigate to Settings: At the top-left corner of the Steam client, click on “Steam” and then select Settings from the dropdown menu.
• Step 3: Access Web Browser Section: Inside the Settings window, you’ll find multiple tabs on the left. Click on the one labeled Web Browser.
• Step 4: Clear Cache and Cookies: In the Web Browser settings, there will be options to Delete Web Browser Cache and Delete All Browser Cookies. Click on both, one after the other, confirming any prompts that may appear.
• Step 5: Restart Steam: After clearing the cache and cookies, close the Steam client and restart it. This ensures the changes take effect.
• Step 6: Test the Affected Game: Now, try launching the game that was previously exhibiting the steam error code e87. With the browser cache cleared, the error may no longer persist.
• Step 7: Regular Maintenance: As with any browser, the cache and cookies can accumulate over time, potentially causing performance drops or errors. It’s a good habit to clear these occasionally, ensuring a smooth browsing and gaming experience.

By purging the browser cache and cookies, you eliminate any corrupted or outdated files that the client might be trying to access, hence resolving any discrepancies. This step, while simple, has proven effective for many users encountering various Steam errors. Remember, maintaining the health of the Steam client isn’t just about game files. The browser cache, while often overlooked, can be just as vital.

Fix 8: Disable Overlays and External Software Interference

Certain external applications, especially those with overlay features, can sometimes interfere with the smooth operation of Steam games. Tools like Discord, NVIDIA GeForce Experience, or even Windows Game Bar might conflict with Steam, leading to issues like steam error code e87.

• Step 1: Identify Potential Culprits: Before making changes, recognize any software on your computer that has an overlay feature or interacts with your gaming sessions. Common examples include Discord, MSI Afterburner, and any screen recording software.
• Step 2: Disable Overlays: For many of these applications, the overlay can be turned off within the software’s settings. For instance, in Discord, you can go to User Settings > Overlay and toggle off “Enable in-game overlay.”
• Step 3: Turn Off Conflicting Software: If you suspect a particular software might be causing the interference, consider temporarily turning it off. Close the application, ensuring it’s not running in the background (you can double-check via Task Manager).
• Step 4: Steam’s In-Game Overlay: Steam itself has an in-game overlay which might sometimes conflict. To disable it, open Steam, navigate to Settings > In-Game, and uncheck the box for “Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.”
• Step 5: Check for Software Updates: Outdated software might be more prone to conflicts. Ensure all your software, especially those interacting with games, are up-to-date. This includes the applications mentioned and even your OS.
• Step 6: Restart Steam and Test: After making the necessary adjustments, restart Steam. Attempt to play the game that was throwing the steam error code e87 to check if the problem has been resolved.
• Step 7: Gradual Reintroduction (For Verification): To identify the exact software causing the issue, consider reintroducing each application one by one, testing the game after each. This way, you can pinpoint the conflicting application and decide on a long-term solution.

External software, especially those with overlay features, are known to sometimes butt heads with game clients like Steam. While overlays offer a seamless multitasking experience during gaming, they can also be the root of unexpected errors. When troubleshooting, it’s crucial to factor in these third-party applications and recognize their potential impact on game performance. By ensuring a harmonious software environment, you pave the way for uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Preventing Tips for Steam Error Code E87

No one likes to face unexpected errors, especially when you’re gearing up for an exciting gaming session. While we’ve covered several solutions for steam error code e87, prevention is often better than cure. Here are some tips to help ensure you don’t run into this issue again:

• 1. Regular Software Updates: Keep your Steam client, games, and even your operating system updated. Developers frequently release patches to fix bugs or potential compatibility issues.
• 2. Monitor External Software: Be cautious with third-party applications, especially those with in-game overlays. Ensure they’re compatible with Steam, and consider disabling overlays when playing.
• 3. Use Reliable Networks: Steam errors can sometimes arise from unstable internet connections. Ensure your network is stable, preferably use wired connections for more consistent connectivity.
• 4. Backup Regularly: Regular backups of your game data and Steam configurations can be a lifesaver. This way, even if an issue arises, you won’t lose significant progress or settings.
• 5. Opt for Steam Beta (For Advanced Users): Steam offers a Beta version of its client, which lets users access new features and fixes before they’re rolled out broadly. However, note that Beta versions can also have their own set of bugs.
• 6. Clear Cache Periodically: As discussed earlier, clearing Steam’s web browser cache can prevent issues. Making this a regular practice can keep many problems at bay.
• 7. Educate Yourself: Stay active on forums, Steam community pages, or relevant subreddits. Knowledge about common issues and their fixes can help you proactively avoid them.
• 8. System Maintenance: Beyond just Steam, regular maintenance of your PC can prevent a variety of issues. This includes disk cleanups, defragmentation (for HDDs), and periodic malware scans.
• 9. Avoid Abrupt Shutdowns: Ensure you close Steam properly after each session. Avoid force-closing it or shutting down your PC without exiting Steam first.
• 10. Keep Communication Open: If you encounter an issue, report it. Steam developers and the community are quite responsive. Feedback helps improve the platform for everyone.

In essence, many of these tips revolve around maintaining the health of your PC and staying updated. Being proactive can significantly reduce the chances of encountering errors like steam error code e87 or any other potential glitches in the future. Remember, a smooth gaming experience often starts with a well-maintained gaming environment.

Conclusion

Facing the steam error code e87 can be frustrating. But with a systematic approach, you can quickly get back to your gaming spree. Whether it’s a network issue, a server outage, corrupted game files, or outdated software, this guide has got you covered. Remember, the key is patience and methodical troubleshooting. So the next time this error pops up, you’ll know just what to do. Happy gaming!

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