[Solved] Steam "Friends Network Unreachable" Error

Jul. 09, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

steam-friends-network-unreachable-error-solved

When using Steam, some users may encounter the "Friends Network Unreachable" error, which prevents them from loading the friends list, sending messages, or inviting friends to games.

Although this issue is common, it can usually be resolved easily with a few simple methods. This article will explain the possible causes and provide practical solutions to help you quickly restore the Steam friends feature.

1. Symptoms of the "Friends Network Unreachable" Error

Friends list fails to load after launching Steam
Message displayed: "Friends network unreachable, please try again later"
Unable to send messages or game invites to friends
Can't change online status to "Online" or "Invisible"

2. Causes of the Error

Unstable or restricted local network connection
Corrupted Steam client cache
Issues with embedded browser components (Steam uses the Chromium engine)
Incorrect system proxy settings
Firewall or antivirus blocking Steam network services
Steam server maintenance or regional outage

3. How to Fix the "Friends Network Unreachable" Error

Method 1: Basic Checks

Restart Steam and Your PC:

This could be a temporary issue. Restarting may resolve it:

Fully exit Steam (right-click the system tray icon > Exit).
Restart your computer.
Relaunch Steam and check the friends feature.

Check Steam Server Status:

Visit the Steam Status page to see if the issue is due to server maintenance or a regional problem.

Method 2: Update Network Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of network instability. If you're not comfortable updating drivers manually, it's recommended to use Driver Talent, which can automatically detect and install the correct drivers:

Download Driver Talent

Download the latest version of Driver Talent and install it.

Open the tool and click "Scan".

In the results list, locate your network adapter and click "Update".

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Restart your PC after the update.

Method 3: Clear Steam Cache Files

Corrupted cache files may disrupt the friends system:

Exit Steam completely.
Press Win + R, enter: %localappdata%\Steam\htmlcache, then press Enter.
Delete all contents in that folder.
Relaunch Steam.

Method 4: Run Steam as Administrator

Ensure Steam has permission to access network services:

Right-click the Steam shortcut.
Select "Run as administrator".

run-steam-as-administrator

Check if the friends list loads correctly.

Method 5: Add Launch Parameter

GPU acceleration may interfere with Steam's friends UI:

Right-click the Steam shortcut > Properties.

In the "Target" field, add the following at the end: -no-cef-sandbox.

Click "Apply" and restart Steam.

Method 6: Reset Network Settings

Go to Settings > Network & Internet.

Click "Status", then scroll down and click "Network reset".

click-network-reset

Click "Reset now". Your computer will restart.

Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi info, so back it up in advance.

Method 7: Allow Steam Through the Firewall

Some security software may block Steam's network access:

Open Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall.
Click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall".

allow-steam-through-the-firewall

Locate Steam and ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.

Or temporarily disable the firewall and test Steam's friends system.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Will deleting the htmlcache folder affect game data?

A: No, it only contains Steam browser cache. It's safe to delete.

Q2: What if the friends network error appears every time I launch Steam?

A: Try completely uninstalling and reinstalling Steam, and clean up any leftover registry entries.

Q3: Can using a VPN cause this issue?

A: Yes. Disable your VPN and try connecting again.