Steam Error 48 — File Lock

What causes Steam Error 48?

Steam cannot access files — another process is locking them. Check official status pages and our live server status before reinstalling apps or hardware.

How to fix step by step

1. 1Check live server status on Oracnoos if this game is in our status grid.
2. 2Restart the app or console completely — not just suspend.
3. 3Reboot your router and test another network (mobile hotspot).
4. 4Disable VPN, proxy, and DNS filters temporarily.
5. 5Update the game client and system firmware to the latest version.
6. 6Clear cache or verify game files if the error persists when status is operational.
7. 7Contact official support with a screenshot of the exact error code.

How 48 differs from related codes

• Error 83: Steam could not write game files to disk during download, update, or install. (usually client-side)