How to Fix Steam Manifest Unavailable Error? Causes and Solutions
by Maivizhi A | Updated Jul 22, 2023
Steam Manifest Unavailable Error
Numerous users have expressed their frustration with the "Manifest Unavailable" error on the Steam network, which bears resemblance to another common issue. If you are facing this error, consider resetting your Internet settings or changing the Steam download region.
To resolve system issues on your Windows PC, you'll need a specialized tool like Fortect. Fortect not only cleans up your PC but also maintains a vast repository of millions of Windows System files in their original versions. When your PC encounters problems, Fortect can fix them by replacing corrupt files with fresh ones.
How to Fix Steam Manifest Unavailable Error?
A lot of users have been reporting the "Steam manifest unavailable" error on forums. This error usually occurs when the Steam client fails to access the manifest, which is a file listing that contains the order of folders and files for downloading or updating games. If you're facing this issue and looking for troubleshooting methods, you can follow the steps below:
Fix 1: Change the Download Region
Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu.
In the Settings window, choose "Downloads" from the left pane and click on "Download Regions."
Select another region from the drop-down menu.
Click on "OK" to save the changes.
Optionally, you can try clearing the download cache by clicking on "Clear Download Cache" in the Settings window.
Fix 2: Logout and Log in Again
Open your Steam client and click on your user name at the upper-right corner.
Select "Logout of account."
Close your Steam client and then reboot your computer.
Log in to your Steam account again and check if the "Steam missing content manifest" error persists.
Fix 3: Flush DNS Cache
Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Type "steam://flushconfig" and hit Enter. This will open a "Clear Download Cache" dialog box that will start flushing the cache.
Open the Run dialog box again and type "cmd" to open the Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt, type "ipconfig /flushdns" and hit Enter.
Fix 4: Turn off Windows Defender Firewall Temporarily
Type "firewall" in the search box and select "Windows Defender Firewall" from the best match.
Click on "Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off" on the left side.
Tick the checkbox next to "Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)" and click on "OK" to save the changes.
Fix 5: Reinstall Steam
If the above methods don't work, you may consider reinstalling Steam. However, before doing so, make sure to back up the Steamapps folder if you want to use it later. Usually, you can find this folder in C:Program Files (x86)SteamSteamapps.
Press the Win + R keys to open the Run box.
Type "appwiz.cpl" and hit Enter.
Find Steam in the list, right-click on it, and select "Uninstall."
After the uninstallation completes, download the latest version of Steam from the official website and install it on your computer.
Move the Steamapps folder you backed up earlier to the Steam directory.
The "Steam missing content manifest" issue should now be resolved.
These methods should help you fix the "Steam manifest unavailable" error and get your Steam client working properly again. If the issue persists, you may want to check Steam support or community forums for further assistance.
Why is the Steam Manifest Unavailable Error Occur?
The Steam "Manifest Unavailable" error may appear for several reasons, and users have identified a few common causes. Some of the main factors leading to this error include:
Network Connection Issues: Many players have reported resolving the "Manifest Unavailable" error by addressing problems with their network connection. This can include issues such as unstable or slow internet connections, which can prevent Steam from accessing and downloading the necessary manifest files.
Conflicts with Antivirus Software: Third-party antivirus programs can sometimes conflict with Steam and lead to various errors, including the "Manifest Unavailable" issue. These antivirus applications may mistakenly block or interfere with Steam's operations, causing the error to occur.
Windows Firewall Blocking: The Windows Firewall can also be a source of the problem, as it may block certain applications, including Steam, from functioning correctly. When Steam is unable to access essential manifest files due to firewall restrictions, the "Manifest Unavailable" error can be triggered.
Check Network Connection: Ensure that your internet connection is stable and working correctly. If you experience any issues with your network, try restarting your router or contacting your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance.
Disable or Configure Antivirus: Temporarily disable your third-party antivirus software and try running Steam again. If the error disappears, you may need to configure your antivirus settings to allow Steam's operations without interference.
Adjust Windows Firewall Settings: Go to your Windows Firewall settings and make sure Steam and its associated applications are allowed to communicate through the firewall. Add exceptions or create rules to ensure Steam's unrestricted access.
Verify Game Files: In the Steam client, right-click on the problematic game, go to "Properties," and then select the "Local Files" tab. Click on "Verify Integrity of Game Files" to check for and fix any corrupted or missing files.
Clear Steam Download Cache: Open Steam, go to "Settings," then "Downloads," and click on "Clear Download Cache." This action will clear any potentially corrupted download cache and may resolve the issue.
Reinstall Steam: As a last resort, if none of the above solutions work, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the Steam client. Before doing so, make sure to back up your game files and save data.
By following these suggestions, you should be able to fix the "Manifest Unavailable" error for Steam or any specific game that encounters this issue, including Gotham Knights, Steamworks Common Redistributables, Battlefield 2042, or Dota 2.
How to Steam Manifest Unavailable Error - FAQs
The "Steam manifest unavailable" error occurs when the Steam client is unable to access the manifest, which is a file listing essential for downloading or updating games.
There are several methods to fix this error. You can try changing the download region, logging out and back into your account, flushing the DNS cache, temporarily disabling Windows Defender Firewall, or even reinstalling Steam.
The error can occur due to various reasons, including network connection issues, conflicts with antivirus software, or the Windows Firewall blocking Steam's access to necessary files.
If changing the download region doesn't work, you can also try clearing the download cache or reinstalling Steam after backing up your game files.
Yes, Fortect is a specialized tool designed to clean up and fix system issues on Windows PCs by replacing corrupt files with fresh, original versions.