How To Fix “Steam 0 Byte Updates” Issue

We’ve all been there: excited to play a new game or an update, only to be halted by Steam downloads stuck at 0 bytes/sec. No worries, fellow gamer! This guide is your toolkit to get that Steam train back on track.

What is Steam 0 Bytes Update Error 

The “Steam Download Stuck at 0 Bytes/sec” error refers to a problem where Steam, a popular platform for buying, downloading, and playing video games, is unable to download games or updates.

This issue is reflected by the download speed displayed on the platform, which shows 0 bytes/second (0 bytes/sec) – indicating that no data is being downloaded, despite the user initiating a game or update download.

This error is an annoying roadblock for gamers as it prevents them from downloading new games or updates to existing ones. The problem can persist for a prolonged period if not addressed, hindering the overall gaming experience.

The causes behind the error are diverse, ranging from network connection issues, server overloads, to conflicts with third-party software.

It might also be due to issues with the Steam download cache, which is the temporary storage for bits of downloads, or disk write errors, where the computer’s hard drive can’t store the data.

By identifying the root of the problem, users can apply the appropriate solution to resume their downloads.

Causes of Steam 0 Bytes Update Error

Network Issues: Your network connection may be unstable or not powerful enough to handle the download.

Server Overload: Steam servers may be overloaded, especially during sales and big game releases.

Software Conflicts: Third-party software such as antivirus programs may be interfering with Steam.

Steam Download Cache: The download cache in Steam may be corrupt or overloaded.

Disk Write Errors: Your hard drive may be having issues writing the data.

How to Fix Steam 0 Bytes Update Error

Here are some of the solutions to fix this error:

Method 1: Change Download Region

Step 1: Open Steam and click on ‘Steam’ in the upper left corner, then choose ‘Settings’.

Step 2: Under ‘Settings’, click on ‘Downloads’.

Step 3: Locate ‘Download Region’ and select a different server from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: Restart Steam and attempt the download again.

Method 2: Clear Steam Download Cache

Step 1: Open Steam and go to ‘Settings’.

Step 2: Click on ‘Downloads’.

Step 3: Click the ‘Clear Download Cache’ button.

Step 4: You will need to log into Steam again. Once done, attempt the download again.

Method 3: Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Step 1: Disable your antivirus software temporarily.

Step 2: Try downloading on Steam again.

Step 3: If successful, consider adding Steam as an exception in your antivirus settings.

Method 4: Check Disk Space and Integrity

Step 1: Ensure you have enough disk space for the download.

Step 2: Check your disk for errors by right-clicking the drive in File Explorer, selecting ‘Properties’, then ‘Tools’, and clicking on ‘Check’.

Method 5: Reinstall Steam

Step 1: Uninstall Steam (this will not uninstall your games).

Step 2: Download the latest version of Steam and install it.

Step 3: Log in and attempt the download again.

Conclusion

Getting your Steam downloads stuck at 0 bytes/sec is like derailing your gaming excitement. However, with this guide, you can easily diagnose the cause of the issue and follow the method that best suits your situation. It’s time to get that Steam train back on track and let the gaming begin!