Steam Error Code 138: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
138
Brand
Steam
Product Type
game_launcher
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Steam Error Code 138 is a Steam Cloud synchronization error that occurs when the Steam client fails to upload or download your saved game data to or from Valve's cloud servers. This typically happens due to a poor internet connection, corrupted local save files, a Steam server outage, or conflicting save data between devices. In most cases, you can resolve this error yourself in just a few minutes by following the steps below.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 138

  1. Check Steam Server Status

  2. Restart Steam Completely

  3. Check Your Internet Connection

  4. Disable and Re-enable Steam Cloud for the Game

    Disabling Steam Cloud temporarily will not delete your cloud saves. However, do not delete any local save files while Cloud sync is disabled.

  5. Resolve a Save File Conflict

    Choosing the wrong option in a conflict dialog can overwrite newer save data. If both saves are important, manually back up your local save folder before making a selection.

  6. Back Up and Verify Local Game Files

  7. Clear the Steam Download Cache

  8. Flush DNS and Reset Network Settings

    Resetting Winsock on Windows can temporarily affect other network applications. Restarting your computer after this step is required.

  9. Reinstall Steam (Last Resort)

    Uninstalling Steam does NOT automatically delete your installed games if you leave the 'steamapps' folder intact. However, always back up important save data before uninstalling any software.
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When to Call a Professional

Steam Error Code 138 is a software and network issue — no physical repair or professional technician is needed. If you have exhausted all steps above and the error persists, contact Steam Support directly at https://help.steampowered.com. Provide your Steam account details, the specific game affected, and a description of all troubleshooting steps you have already tried. Steam Support can investigate server-side issues tied to your account or provide a manual save file recovery if your data appears to be lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Steam Error Code 138 cause me to lose my game saves?
In most cases, no. Steam Cloud stores a copy of your saves on Valve's servers, and a local copy is also kept on your PC. Error 138 means the sync between the two failed, but both copies typically still exist. The risk of data loss is highest if you choose the wrong option during a save conflict dialog or manually delete local save files while Cloud is disabled. Always back up your local save folder before making any major changes.
Why does Steam Error 138 keep coming back every time I launch a game?
Recurring Error 138 is usually caused by a persistent internet connectivity issue, an ongoing Steam server problem, or a corrupted save file that keeps failing to sync. Try verifying the game's local files, clearing the Steam download cache, and ensuring your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking Steam's network access. You can also add Steam as an exception in your firewall settings to prevent repeated blocks.
Does Steam Error 138 affect all my games or just one?
Error 138 can affect a single game or multiple games depending on the cause. If only one game is affected, the issue is likely tied to that game's specific save files or Cloud configuration. If all or most of your games are showing this error, it usually points to a broader issue such as a Steam server outage, a network problem on your end, or a corrupted Steam installation.
Can I play my game offline to avoid Steam Error 138?
Yes. You can switch Steam to Offline Mode by clicking 'Steam' in the top menu bar and selecting 'Go Offline'. In Offline Mode, Steam Cloud sync is disabled and the error will not appear. Your game will use local save files only. When you go back online, Steam will attempt to sync your saves again, so be prepared to handle a potential conflict dialog if your cloud save and local save diverge while offline.
Does antivirus or firewall software cause Steam Error Code 138?
Yes, this is a common cause. Antivirus programs and firewalls can block Steam from communicating with Valve's cloud servers, triggering Error 138. To check, temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and see if the error goes away. If it does, add Steam (steam.exe) and the Steam Web Helper (steamwebhelper.exe) as trusted exceptions in your security software rather than leaving protection disabled permanently.

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