How to Fix Failed to Load Steamui.dll on Windows

Are you wondering how to fix the failed to load Steamui.dll on Windows? Keep reading this article to learn more about this error and the top 5 fixes to resolve this error quickly. If you have lost data while fixing this error, installing EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard would be the best!

 Download for Win Recovery Rate 99.7%
 Download for Mac Trustpilot Rating 4.7

Page Table of Contents

Updated By

Jaden

Updated on

23 May 2024

Min Reading

9 Min

It's been more than 20 years since the release of the Steam gaming platform, which was downloaded by every gamer on their PC. Initially, the Steam client is effortless to use and well-optimized, but it also possesses a few technical threats. One such error is "failed to load steamui.dll." Since Steam's release, users have encountered this issue, which sadly persists. However, it's not always Steam's shortcoming either! From missing Windows updates to damaged files, a wide array of external reasons are liable.

How to Fix Failed to Load Steamui.dll on Windows

In case you have faced this error out of the blue, you must not fret! Gamers often have reported that they encountered this while launching Steam or playing a game on Steam. It's very frustrating that you ca incapable start the application due to it. Before proceeding with fixing the "failed to load Steamui.dll" error on Windows and Steam files recovery, we provide a video for better understanding. These are the main pointers to consider:

  • 00:22 Open Task Manager.
  • 00:33 Right-click on Steam 32-bit
  • 1:00 Search for Run and type steam://flushconfig
  • 1:22 Re-log your Steam account
failed to load Steamui.dll
 

As this issue bothers you, below are the 5 methods to load Steamui.dll files.

Fix 1. Clear the Download Cache

If you see this error while playing a game that you have recently installed, the download cache might be the main issue. All you need to do is clear the cache often, as doing so will allow Steam to launch the video game appropriately. These are the steps to follow:

Step 1. Launch the "Steam" client to clear the download cache.

Launch the steam client

Step 2. Opt for "Settings" in the "Steam" menu.

Select settings from the Steam menu

Step 3. Switch to the "Downloads" tab and select the "Clear Download Cache" button.

Select clear download cache and hit ok

Step 4. Hit the "OK" button as soon as the dialog box opens.

Fix 2. Rule out the Beta file from the Steam Directory

If you're using the Beta version of the Steam client, you will encounter such errors while employing Steam on Windows. As you can't open Steam, you won't be able to leave this beta program through the in-app settings menu. Luckily, there's no way to exit Steam's beta program and navigate to the stable version of the application. Go through the steps below to delete the beta file:

Step 1. Hit "Windows + E" to launch File Explorer.

Step 2. Hover over to the directory where you have downloaded Steam.

Step 3. You need to double-click on the "Package" folder to launch it.

Step 4. Spot the "Beta" file within the folder and rule this out.

Select the beta file

Once done, reboot your Windows PC, and try to launch "Steam" again. Now, it must install the crucial files to alter the app's stable version, which might fix this error.

Fix 3. Uninstall and Reinstall Steam

If you face the "failed to load steamui.dll" error while trying to launch Steam, you may try uninstalling Steam from your PC and then reinstalling it. Once done, the damaged steamui.dll file will be restored with a fresh one. These are the steps to uninstall and reinstall Steam:

Step 1. Press Windows + R to launch the "Run" box. Then, type appwiz.cpl and hit the enter button.

Type the command and hit ok

Step 2. Search for the "Steam" in the list, right-click, and hit "Uninstall."

Step 3. Now, install the latest version of Steam once the uninstallation is over, and reinstall it on your PC.

Step 4. Change the location of the Steamapps folder you have backed up to the Steam directory. Finally, run Steam again and see if the error goes away.

Fix 4. Update the Windows Device Drivers

The Windows update tool is one of the best ways to update your outdated device drive. Go through the steps below to update the drivers:

Step 1. Hit the "Windows" key on your keyboard and "R" to let the Run window pop up. Now, type control update and hit enter.

Launch Run window and type control update

Step 2. Select "search for updates." In case no updates are shown, you must obtain a text, "You're up to date."

Select check for updates

Step 3. In case the Windows update tool obtains a fresh update for your device driver, you should allow it to install and wait for a while to get the process done. After that, restart your PC.

Step 4. Run "Steam" once you install the fresh Windows updates successfully, and confirm if the problem has been resolved.

Fix 5. Search for Malware

Although it's uncommon, viruses could have infested your Steam directory, damaging the DLL files and deterring Steam from launching in the right way. In that case, your top-notch recourse is to scan your PC for malware. Windows Defender is the best antivirus app for this to perform scans. Below are the steps:

Step 1. Launch the "Windows Security's Virus & Threat Protection" tab to scan your PC with Windows Defender. You may find it here by searching the "Start" menu.

Launch Windows securitys virus and threat protection

Step 2. You may conduct a Quick scan. However, it's recommended to opt for "Scan options" right below the button instead.

Select quick scan

Step 3. Opt for "Full scan" and select the "Scan now" button.

A complete scan takes some time; therefore, you might have to wait for it. Once done, your laptop or PC must be free of malware. So, reboot it and run Steam again.

How to Recover Deleted Steamui.dll File

A deleted steamui.dll file is very annoying. So, if it happens to you, you should install recovery software to get back every misplaced data. It has been seen that Windows users may lose data when Windows can't find these files. But you must not worry!

You can swiftly retrieve many sorts of files with the help of competent data retrieval programs like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard. The purpose of this software is to make retrieving data easier in cases of system failure, crashes, and inadvertent erasure of files. The major highlights of this data recovery software are the following:

 Download for Win Recovery Rate 99.7%
 Download for Mac Trustpilot Rating 4.7

  • It helps recover deleted files from HDD, SSD, recycle bin, SD card, and USB.
  • Easily retrieves up to 2GB of data for free on Windows 11 and the older versions.
  • Mend damaged videos, pictures, and files with premium file repair features.
  • Recovers 1000+ file types from 2000+ storage devices.

Step 1. Run EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard. Choose "Select Folder" under Specify a location. Browse for the location where you lost the folder and click "OK" to scan. 

select folder to scan

Step 2. You can search for the target folder or use the Filter feature to find a certain type of files in the folder. 

choose files to recover

Step 3. You can preview the recovered folder. Then, click "Recover" and choose a new & secure location on your PC or cloud storage to keep the recovered data. 

Restore lost folder data

Download this professional data retrieval software now! If you like the information about this tool, kindly share it with your mates on social media.

 

Why the Steamui.dll Files Are Not Found

Steamui.dll is a crucial file in Windows OS, allowing your apps and programs to function efficiently. However, the "failed to load steamui.dll" error text mainly pops up when the file gets damaged. If you're wondering what causes this error, one of the most typical reasons is the corruption of the Steamui.dll files or the fact that they can't load properly. Below are the 4 reasons for not finding the Steamui.dll files:

  • You delete the steamui.dll files inadvertently.
  • HDD failures, such as those involving RAM and hard disks, are liable for this error.
  • Steam requires device drivers to function. If you're using the older device driver, you may face this steamui.dll error.
  • Other malware or viruses on your PC corrupt the steamui.dll file.

Conclusion

It's highly annoying when Steam can't launch on your PC and bothers you with the "Failed to Load steamui.dll" error. Luckily, among the 5 fixes mentioned above, one or more must have aided you in fixing this error. If you have lost data while trying these fixes above, installing EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard will assist you in recovering the misplaced Steam files quickly on your Windows PC.

Failed to Load Steamui.dll FAQs

Consider the FAQs below to comprehend the topic better:

1. How to fix the failed-to-load Steam UI?

All you need to do is launch File Explorer, Navigate to your Steam directory, and search for its "Package" folder. Then, in that folder, right-click a " Beta " file and select "Delete." Finally, restart your Windows PC and Steam, and you will notice the crucial Steam file will be installed automatically.

2. How to fix the failed-to-load Steam overlay dll?

In most cases, the best solution is to reinstall steamoverlay64. dll properly on your PC, to the Windows system folder.

3. What is a Steam fatal error?

When your connection is interrupted or unstable, it might trigger a Steam fatal error. Therefore, you need to ensure your internet is stable. On the other hand, you may look for any antivirus software that might be hindering Steam's access to the web.

  • Updated by

    Jaden is one of the editors of EaseUS, who focuses on topics concerning PCs and Mac data recovery. Jaden is committed to enhancing professional IT knowledge and writing abilities. She is always keen on new and intelligent products.…
Why Trust EaseUSEditor Reviews

20+

Years of experience

160+

Countries and regions

72 Million+

Downloads

4.7 +

Trustpilot Score

Data Recovery Service

Search