How to Fix Steam Content File Locked Errors

Every avid gamer out there, knows just how important game updates are. So it can be somewhat frustrating when one comes face to face with a content file locked error in Steam.

When it comes to PC gaming, Steam stands head and shoulders above its competitors. As it comes with an almost limitless library of games, coupled with a wide feature set that allows you to organise your content into one central location, communicate with other gamers and even join groups of people who share similar interests.

However, despite the many benefits, there are those instances when a user may experience a content file locked error while using it.

So, what exactly does this content file locked error signify? Well, essentially it means, the Steam app was unable to write to your hard disk drive, which ultimately, prevented it from carrying out an update on an installed game.

As errors go, content file locked is fairly common, and at times can prove quite confusing to the average user; as they are unable to determine the complexity of the problem. However, with the right information and approach, it is possible to fix this error.

Steam is definitely lacking in the area of providing error solutions, fortunately, the information provided here, when implemented to the letter, should help you alleviate this problem.

What Causes Content File Locked Errors?

There are a series of things one can consider when looking at the various common causes of content file locked errors.

That said, it’s likely one or more of the causes outlined below is the catalyst for your problem:

• Steam cache data has been corrupted.
• User lacks the appropriate permissions.
• One or more apps is conflicting with Steam.
• The Winsock is corrupted or has crashed.
• Files belonging to your game(s) have been corrupted.

With the possible causes out of the way, let’s take a look at the different ways you can fix this problem.

How to Fix It

When tackling any Steam based error, probably the most effective, yet time-consuming way of fixing it, is to holistically remove and reinstall it. However, that can take a considerable length of time, depending on the number of apps you have installed on it.

So let’s start with something a little more realistic.

First, things first, consider disabling your antivirus tool. It’s possible your internet security solution is a little too zealous, blocking third-party apps from carrying out updates. In this instance, you’ll want to disable your security tool, just to check whether or not this is the case. If it is, then you’ll need to create an exception for Steam.

This is important, as you do not want your antivirus scanner disabled for too long.

To disable your antivirus scanner, this is a process that can be carried out within the GUI (Graphic User Interface). So load up the tool, then look for a disable button or toggle there.

Run Windows Repair Tool to Fix Content File Locked Error

It’s not uncommon or unexpected for your system to start to run slow after some time of usage. Whether that be months or years after you purchased it.

In instances like this, it’s recommended that you use a Windows repair tool to fix any nagging issues that are contributing to its slow speed.

The tool I have in mind is called Advanced System Repair Pro, which is a multifaceted tool, capable of detecting and fixing a plethora of issues on your computer. All you need to do is download and run it, and it’ll do the rest.

A full scan can result in it detecting and fixing DLL errors, app errors (such as Content File Locked), registry errors, BSOD errors and much more. It’s also capable of removing malicious files from your system, making it an all-in-one maintenance and repair suite.

Anyway, you can find out more about this tool, from the link provided below:

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT ADVANCED SYSTEM REPAIR PRO

The solution(s) below are for ADVANCED level computer users. If you are a beginner to intermediate computer user, I highly recommend you use the automated tool(s) above!

Run As Administrator

Sometimes there are instances when a user account lacks the appropriate privileges to access a specific file or folder. An end user can get around this problem by simply running Steam as an administrator. This ensures the app has the authority to carry out any functions or tasks it sees fit.

If you don’t know how to run Steam as an administrator, then you can find step-by-step instructions on how to do this, from my post on fixing missing file privileges errors.

Clear Steam Cache Data

The download cache folder of Steam, functions like your typical cache folder. It makes for faster and easier access to specific files and while this does have its glaring benefits, it’s not foolproof.

Occasionally, issues do arise in this area of Steam, which can result in an inability for the app to download future updates. In situations like this, clearing the contents of the folder can help.

If you don’t know how to clear Steams download cache folder, then check out my post on fixing missing file privileges errors for more information.

Erase Download Files

Another reason why you encountered the content file locked error could be because the Steam app crashed unexpectedly while updating a game. This results in Steam attempting to re-download a file already present on your system, causing a duplication issue.

If so, you may be able to get around this problem, simply by removing the recently downloaded files. To do that, follow the steps below:

1. First, boot into your system as a full administrator.

2. Then press + R, type C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\downloading and click on OK.

Note: Where C:\ is the drive the app is installed on.

3. Now, click on Select All, then click on Delete.

4. Lastly, open Steam and retry the update.

Reset Winsock

Winsock or Windows Socket is an API (Application Programming Interface) developed for the purpose of establishing communication between the network services and software on your Windows system.

If there’s an issue with the Winsock, it can inhibit, apps like Steam from making outside connections. Fortunately, there is something you can do to fix the Winsock.

The steps to fixing it are outlined below:

1. First, boot into your system as a full administrator.

2. Then press + R, type cmd and press CTRL + Shift + Enter.

3. This will load up command prompt, from here, type the following command below and press Enter.

netsh winsock reset

Note: For additional information on fixing the Winsock, check out my post on fixing Winsock errors.

Check Game File Integrity

If you experience the content file locked error when attempting to update a specific game, then the cause of the error, could be missing or corrupted files for that specific game.

You can fix this problem without having to do anything too drastic. Simply run an integrity check, and Steam will verify and update the game files where applicable.

For instructions on how to access and use this Steam feature, check out my post on fixing steam_api64.dll errors.

Reinstall Steam

If the content file locked error continues to persist, even after using all the solutions outlined above, you may want to try something a little more drastic.

A full reinstallation of Steam.

The best way to do this, is as follows:

1. First, boot into your system as a full administrator.

2. Then press + R, type C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\ and click on OK.

3. This will bring up the Steam folder, from here, click on steamapps then click on Cut.

4. Now, right-click on your Desktop and select Paste.

5. Next, press + R, type Appwiz.cpl and click on OK.

6. When Program and Features loads up, click on Steam and select Uninstall.

Note: Follow the onscreen instructions to successfully remove Steam.

7. You can now download and install a fresh copy of Steam from the official site here: https://store.steampowered.com/about/

8. Once you’ve successfully installed Steam, right-click on the steamapps folder (on your Desktop) and select Cut.

9. Then follow step 2 again and click on the Paste button.

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Which is the leading registry cleaner program online that is able to cure your system from a number of different ailments such as Windows Installer Errors, Runtime Errors, Malicious Software, Spyware, System Freezing, Active Malware, Blue Screen of Death Errors, Rundll Errors, Slow Erratic Computer Performance, ActiveX Errors and much more. Click here to check it out NOW!