Keeping the Steam client updated is important if you want the latest features, security improvements, performance fixes, and compatibility changes. Steam normally handles client updates automatically, so most users do not need to do anything. However, if an update has not appeared, Steam seems outdated, or a game asks you to update the client, you can check for an update manually.
How Steam Client Updates Work
Steam is designed to download and install client updates automatically. When Valve releases a new version, Steam can download the required files in the background. In many cases, the update is applied the next time you restart Steam.
You may notice Steam restarting itself after an update. This is normal and does not mean your games or saved data have been removed. Your installed games, library, friends list, achievements, and account information remain connected to your Steam account.
How To Manually Update Steam
If you want to check for a Steam client update yourself, follow these steps:
- Open the Steam client on your computer.
- Sign in to your Steam account if required.
- Click the Steam option in the top-left corner of the window.
- Select Check for Steam Client Updates from the menu.
- Let Steam check whether a newer version is available.
- If an update is found, allow Steam to download and install it.
- Restart Steam if the client asks you to do so.
The exact menu wording can vary between versions and operating systems, but the update-check option is built into the Steam desktop client.
What To Do If Steam Will Not Update
Sometimes Steam may fail to update because of a temporary network problem, a stuck download, insufficient storage space, or a problem with the client itself. Start with the simplest fixes before trying anything more complicated.
First, close Steam completely and open it again. Make sure it is not still running in the background. You can also restart your computer, which can clear temporary processes that are preventing the update from starting.
Next, check your internet connection. Steam needs a working connection to reach its servers and download update files. If your connection is unstable, wait a few minutes and try again.
It is also worth checking the Downloads section in Steam. The Downloads page lets you monitor active downloads and updates, so you can see whether the client is actually downloading files or waiting in a queue.
Check Your Operating System
An outdated operating system can also cause compatibility problems. This is especially important for older Windows installations. Valve stopped providing Steam client updates to 32-bit versions of Windows as of January 1, 2026. Windows 10 64-bit continues to be supported, while future Steam versions will require 64-bit Windows.
If you are using an unsupported operating system, updating Steam alone may not solve the problem. Check your system architecture and install a supported operating system when necessary.
Should You Reinstall Steam?
Reinstalling Steam should not be your first solution. In most cases, restarting the client, checking your connection, and allowing pending downloads to finish are better first steps.
If Steam remains stuck after these checks, reinstalling the client can be considered as a last resort. Before doing so, make sure you understand where your games are installed and have access to your Steam account credentials. Avoid deleting your game library unnecessarily, as large game installations can take considerable time to download again.
Keep Steam Updated For The Best Experience
Updating the Steam client is usually a simple process because Steam handles most updates automatically. If you need to force a check, open Steam, use the Steam menu, and select the option to check for Steam client updates. If no update is available, Steam is already running the latest version offered to your system.
