The error has been encountered by users worldwide and for a wide range of games, which makes troubleshooting a lot more intricate. So, let’s find out all about the problem and go through the solutions.

What does it mean on Steam when it says content file locked?

The Content file locked error in Steam, on Elden Ring and other games, appears when trying to update them and stops the process from completing. It’s usually encountered when the download reaches 90-95%. Here are a few reasons you might be getting the error:

Running low on storage: Some users pointed out that the error appeared when running out of storage on the drive where the Steam files were saved. Problems with the drive: The steam VR Content file locked error can also appear due to issues with the drive, which affect the program’s ability to read and write data to it. Missing permissions: If Steam is not run with the required permissions, you may face trouble updating games. Issues with the cache: For those getting the Content file locked error in Steam iRacing, a corrupt download cache could be the underlying cause.

How can I fix content file locked on Steam?

Before we move to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick tricks first:

Restart the computer and then try updating the game. Run the app as an administrator since Steam could be missing the permissions required while updating the game. If you have a third-party antivirus installed, disable it. Several of these have been found to cause the Steam Content file locked error with Wallpaper Engine. If that works, we recommend you switch to a reliable and effective antivirus. When getting the error, you can hover the cursor over the message to identify the problematic file. Try deleting it and verify whether that resolves the problem. Run Disk Cleanup to clear storage space on the PC, and then try updating the game. Check the disk for bad sectors and other issues.

If none worked, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Terminate the game’s process

Several users reported getting the Steam Content file locked error with Vavle and a few other games when they were running in the background, and terminating the process did the trick. Also, if a Steam game is configured to run at boot, make sure to disable the startup program. SPONSORED

2. Reset Winsock

3. Verify the integrity of game files

Issues with some game files can often lead to the Content file locked Steam error with MW2. And the gaming client has a built-in option to fix such problems.

4. Clear the Download cache

5. Move the game to another library

After you are done moving the game to another drive in Steam, the Content file locked error shouldn’t appear again.

6. Delete the local files and then reinstall the game

7. Reinstall Steam

If none of the solutions so far have worked, reinstalling Steam would get things up and running, and you should not receive the Content file locked error anymore. Also, we recommend that avid gamers check our quick tips and tricks to optimize Windows for gaming. For any queries or to share another solution, use the comments section below.

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