How to Fix Steam Error Code E87 in Quick Steps in the UK

If you fired up Steam and got hit with “Error Code E87” instead of launching your games, you’re not alone and the frustration is real. This guide walks you through what E87 means, why it pops up, and a full set of fixes (from quick wins to deep troubleshooting). Whether you’re on PC or using Steam via a web login, this covers everything needed to get you back online.

What is “Error Code E87” on Steam and why it appears

Error Code E87 usually occurs during login or connection attempts on Steam. It often means Steam cannot properly authenticate your credentials, establish a stable connection, or complete its initialization due to interference or misconfiguration. In many cases, the error stems from a mismatch in authentication, corrupted cache or temp files, network/firewall obstruction, or server-side disruptions.

Unlike in-game bug/errors where a bug might crash the game E87 is often about login/authentication and connectivity issues. Depending on your setup (VPNs, firewalls, cache, multiple devices), the cause can vary which is why a broad troubleshooting scope is necessary.

Common causes behind Error Code E87 on Steam

Let’s break down the typical culprits behind E87, from the client-side all the way to network or server-side issues:

1. Temporary files, cache, or corrupted configuration

Steam stores cache, configuration data, and temporary files to speed up startup, downloads, and authentication. Over time or after abrupt shutdowns, these files may get corrupted, causing Steam to fail to login or initialize properly. Clearing cache or resetting configuration often solves E87.

2. Firewall, antivirus, VPN or proxy interference

Security software, firewalls, or network filters can block or modify requests between your PC and Steam servers. VPNs or proxies while useful sometimes interfere with authentication or network routing, leading to E87. Disabling or properly configuring these often helps.

3. Outdated Steam client or corrupted installation files

If your Steam client is outdated or some core files are corrupted, login or initialization can fail. This tends to happen more often after OS updates or disk problems. Reinstalling or repairing Steam can eliminate such issues.

4. Multiple device logins or account session conflicts

If you are logged in on multiple devices (or didn’t log out properly before switching machines), Steam Guard or server-side security may reject new login attempts resulting in E87. Some sources suggest deauthorizing all devices then logging in fresh.

5. Network disruptions, unstable internet, or DNS issues

Unstable or slow internet, intermittent connectivity, or DNS problems can disrupt authentication or handshake with Steam servers. In such cases, switching networks or adjusting DNS settings helps.

6. Server-side or Steam-service outages / Maintenance

At times, the issue may not be on your side at all: server overloads, maintenance, or backend disruptions can lead to login failures and trigger E87. In those cases, it’s simply a matter of waiting until Steam services are restored.

How to Fix Error Code E87: Step-by-Step (PC/Windows Focus)

Follow these steps in order. Often, the simple ones resolve E87 quickly. If not, move down the list.

General & Quick Fixes

1. Restart the Steam client and your PC
   • Fully exit Steam (via Task Manager if needed), wait 10–15 seconds, then launch again. This clears temporary glitches.
2. Ensure Steam is up to date
   • An outdated client may conflict with server auth protocols. Let Steam auto-update (or reinstall if update fails).
3. Disable VPNs, proxies, or firewalls temporarily
   • See if login works when network tools are disabled. If it does — you’ve found the culprit.
4. Switch network or try a different connection
   • Use wired Ethernet if on Wi-Fi; or mobile hotspot if possible. Instability or ISP-specific routing can trigger E87.

How to Fix Error Code E87 on PC-Specific / Advanced Fixes

Clear Steam Cache / Temporary Files & Configuration

• Close Steam completely.
• Use steam://flushconfig via Run dialog (Win + R). This resets Steam’s internal configuration and clears cache without removing games.
• Alternatively, go to Steam → Settings → Downloads → Clear Download Cache. Accept prompts and restart Steam.

Run Steam as Administrator

• Right-click on the Steam shortcut or .exe → “Run as Administrator”. This ensures Steam has all necessary permissions to write files or modify configs.

Deauthorize All Devices / Manage Account Sessions

• If you use multiple devices or recently changed password, go to Steam Guard or account settings → Deauthorize all devices. Then log in again on your main PC.

Reset Password (If Needed)

• Occasionally, account credential mismatches cause login failures. Reset your Steam password via Steam’s “Help → I can’t sign in” flow. Use new credentials to login.

Repair or Reinstall Steam

• If other fixes fail, consider reinstalling the Steam client. First, back up your “steamapps” folder (games and content), uninstall Steam, then install the latest version from official site. Replacing steamapps retains your installed games.

Flush DNS and Check Network Settings (optional but helpful)

• On Windows: open Command Prompt → run ipconfig /flushdns. Then restart Steam and try again. This helps if DNS resolution is causing authentication or connectivity issues.

When Fixes Don’t Work, What Else Could Be Happening

If you’ve tried everything above and still see E87, consider these less obvious but common situations:

• Steam servers are down, overloaded, or under maintenance: In that case, login failures will persist until server-side issues are resolved. Waiting or checking Steam’s status is your only option.
• ISP-level restrictions, regional network issues, or routing problems: Some ISPs or regional networks block or filter Steam traffic. In such cases, switching to a different ISP or using mobile data may help.
• Corrupted OS files or disk errors on your machine: On rare occasions, underlying OS or disk problems can interfere with Steam’s ability to read/write config or temp data. Running disk checks or OS maintenance may help.
• Excessive simultaneous login attempts or security flagging by Steam: Frequent login retries (wrong password, repeated attempts) might trigger protection mechanisms. In such cases, wait 30–60 min before retrying, or try a different device. This is corroborated by community reports.

Extra Notes & Best Practices: Preventing Future E87

To minimize the chances of seeing E87 again:

• Keep Steam client updated at all times.
• Avoid running multiple gaming clients concurrently (especially those that also use VPNs or heavy background networking).
• Always allow Steam through firewall and antivirus add exceptions if needed.
• Use stable, wired internet where possible (Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots tend to introduce instability).
• If you use VPNs, ensure they’re reliable, or disable them when logging in to Steam.
• Periodically clear Steam’s cache / download cache (especially after updates).
• Synchronize your system clock and timezone with internet time servers mismatched date/time can sometimes break authentication.

Summary

Steam Error Code E87 is usually a login or connectivity-related issue rarely a permanent account ban or data corruption. In many cases, simple fixes like restarting Steam, clearing cache, disabling VPN/firewall, or reinstalling solve the problem. If it persists, it may be due to server-side issues, ISP restrictions, or deep configuration problems which may require waiting, network changes, or contacting support.

Because the causes vary widely from corrupted local cache to global server outages the best approach is methodical: start with the simple, quick steps. If those don’t succeed, work your way up to full reinstall or network changes. Combining patience with good troubleshooting often ends the problem fast.