How-To Fix "app configuration unavailable" on Steam

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Troubleshooting the "app configuration unavailable" Steam Error

What is the "app configuration unavailable" error on Steam?

The "app configuration unavailable" is an issue that has been experienced by many Steam users. Steam, as a well-known game distribution platform, allows users to purchase, download, install, and play a vast array of games. Yet, recently, this error message has considerably hindered the gaming experience of many users, generally appearing during the installation process of games or during the download and installation of a DLC for a game. This issue is primarily seen when installing a particular game, preventing users from successfully installing and accessing the game on the platform.

Variations of the "app configuration unavailable" error

It's important to note that this Steam error can frequently appear in different forms. Depending on each user's situation, the wording of the error can vary slightly. Some of the variations detected include: "An error occurred while updating (app configuration unavailable)" and "Steam failed to install (app configuration unavailable)". Despite the disparity in wording, each form of the error ultimately results in similar difficulty in installing or updating an application.

Occurrence in various Steam games

This error isn't confined to a single type of game or a handful of select titles. Instead, several significant titles have been known to present this error. Among the games where the "app configuration unavailable" error commonly occurs include the likes of Red Dead Redemption II, Sea of Thieves, Hogwarts Legacy, Identity, Cities: Skylines, Tekken 7, Dota 2, GTA V, and CS:GO.

Tips before trying fixes

Before we delve into the solutions for this issue, it is crucial to remember that these fixes should be attempted in sequence and patience is key as some may require more time than others. Users should also ensure they follow each step precisely and, wherever possible, keep a backup of their data lest any accidental loss occur during the fix implementation.

Methods to fix the "app configuration unavailable" Steam error

Various methods exist to repair the "app configuration unavailable" Steam error. Here we'll outline these solutions, which range from deleting certain files and modifying your Steam download region, to verifying the integrity of your game files and performing a DNS flush.

Delete the appinfo.vdf File

One potential fix is to delete the "appinfo.vdf" file. This file may contain corrupted data or become outdated, triggering the error message.

Steps to delete the file and relaunch Steam:

Close the Steam client.
Navigate to the directory where Steam is installed.
Open the 'Steam' folder, then the 'appcache' folder.
Locate and delete the 'appinfo.vdf' file.
Relaunch Steam and check if the error persists.

Repair the Steam Library Folder

Another possible solution is to repair the Steam library folder. The library folder may occasionally become corrupted and generate errors.

Steps to repair the library folder:

Launch the Steam client.

Go to 'Settings' -> 'Downloads' -> 'Steam Library Folders'.
Right-click on the library folder and choose 'Repair Library Folder'.
Once repaired, check if the issue has been resolved.

Change Steam Download Region

Occasionally, the issue may arise from server problems in your current download region. Changing the download region may help resolve the issue.

Steps to change the download region:

Open Steam and go to 'Settings'.
Select 'Downloads' and pick a different region from the 'Download Region' dropdown menu.
Save changes and restart Steam to check if the issue persists.

Clear the Steam Download Cache

Another method to rectify the issue is by clearing the download cache on the Steam client, as the cache might contain corrupted data.

Steps to clear the downloads cache:

Open the Steam client and go to 'Settings'.
Click on 'Downloads' and then 'Clear Download Cache'.
Confirm your action, let it process, then log back into Steam.

Verify the Integrity of Game Files

Verifying the integrity of game files can also resolve the error, particularly if it's caused by any corrupt game files.

Steps to verify game file integrity:

Launch Steam and go to the 'Library'.
Right-click the game experiencing the issue and click 'Properties'.
Go to the 'Local Files' tab and choose 'Verify Integrity of Game Files'.
Steam will then check and replace any corrupted or missing files.

Perform a DNS Flush and Reset the Winsock Catalog

If none of the above solutions work, performing a DNS flush and resetting the Winsock Catalog might help, as it refreshes the internet settings and can potentially resolve the error.

Steps for performing a DNS flush and resetting the Winsock Catalog:

Press 'Win+R', type 'cmd' to open the command prompt.
Type 'ipconfig/flushdns' and press 'Enter' to flush DNS.
Next, type 'netsh winsock reset' and press 'Enter' to reset the Winsock Catalog.
Finally, restart your computer and open Steam to check if the error persists.

Wait for a Steam Update

If none of the previous methods resolve the issue, one option is to simply wait for a Steam update. Sometimes, the error could be due to a bug within Steam itself, which will likely be addressed in the next update. Steam automatically checks for new updates, so they will be automatically installed once available. It is important, therefore, to regularly open Steam so it can check for and install the latest updates.

Use a PC Repair & Optimizer Tool

Alternatively, using a PC repair & optimizer tool could resolve the issue, particularly if it stems from a registry issue or similar Windows system error. Some of these tools can also enhance the overall performance of your computer. You can use these programs to troubleshoot common errors on your Windows system.

Steps to use a PC Repair & Optimizer Tool:

Download a PC Repair & Optimizer Tool from a trusted source.
Run the tool by clicking "Start Scan" to find any potential Windows registry issues causing PC problems.
Click "Repair All" to fix all identified issues.

Contact Support.Com

We hope that one of the methods above can help resolve the "app configuration unavailable" Steam error, which can be challenging but is definitely fixable. If the above methods are unsuccessful, contact Support.Com for the best online and remote support on the internet.