[Solved] Steam Local File Transfer Not Working

Why is Steam local file transfer not working when you are trying to transfer game files over the local network? How can you fix this? Read on, and you will find answers in this practical article.

Steam's Local Network Game Transfer (LNGT) feature simplifies transferring installed games between devices on the same network, such as from a PC to a Steam Deck. This feature can save time and internet bandwidth by avoiding the need to download games from the internet if they are already installed on another device within the local network. However, some users have encountered issues where this convenient feature does not function as expected.

If you encounter a similar issue, explore potential solutions from EaseUS to fix Steam local file transfer not working. For those who need an emergent game transfer, you can click the following download button to get a reliable file transfer tool and navigate to part 2 for its tutorial.

How to Solve Steam Local File Transfer Not Working

In this section, we'll provide seven solutions to fix the problem of Steam local file transfer not working efficiently. So, let's begin to learn and understand these solutions.

Way 1. Check Steam Client Updates for Both Devices

Before diving deeper, make sure both your Steam client on the host PC and the receiving device (another PC or Steam Deck) are up-to-date. Outdated clients might have bugs affecting local transfers.

Follow these steps to check for Steam updates:

Step 1. Open Steam, then click on the Steam tab located in the upper corner.

Step 2. From the dropdown menu, select "Check for Steam Client Updates."

Step 3. Steam will automatically search for any available updates.

Step 4. If updates are found, Steam will prompt you to install them.

Way 2. Check Steam Downloads Settings

Direct transfers are usually enabled by default, but it's a good idea to verify that this feature is active, especially if you plan to transfer games to another device that has a different Steam account (note that both users must own the game).

Step 1. Open Steam and navigate to Steam > Settings. Click on "Downloads" in the left-hand sidebar. Check for the "Game File Transfer Over Local Network" option and make sure the toggle is switched on.

Step 2. To enable transfers to different Steam accounts or beyond your own installations, click on the dropdown menu next to "Allow transfers from this device to" and select "Steam Friends" or "Anyone," based on your preference.

Ensure this setting is enabled on all devices involved in the game transfers. With these settings configured, you're all set to begin transferring games.

Way 3. Verifying the Integrity of Game Files

Corrupted game files on the host PC can prevent Steam from locating them for transfer. Here's how to verify the integrity:

Step 1. Restart your computer and open Steam.

Step 2. In your Library, right-click the concerned game or click the gear icon on the game's Library page.

Step 3. Choose Properties from the dropdown menu.

Step 4. Go to the "Installed Files" tab and click on "Verify integrity of game files."

Step 5. Allow Steam to check the game's files.

Way 4. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

Security software can sometimes interfere with network operations. Temporarily disabling these can help determine if they are the cause of your LNGT issues.

Step 1. Disable your antivirus software temporarily.

Step 2. Turn off the firewall on both your PC and Steam Deck.

Step 3. Attempt the file transfer again.

Way 5. Plug in the Charger in SD Card (Steam Deck)

A Reddit user shared a unique solution that might help if the issue is specific to power management on the Steam Deck.

Plug your Steam Deck into its charger. According to some users, having the device charging can sometimes improve its connectivity and functionality with features like LNGT. And they eventually managed to transfer PC games to Steam Deck successfully after connecting the charger.

Don't forget to share these solutions with other players if they work for your Steam.

Way 6. Clearing Steam Download Cache

Clearing your Steam download cache can resolve the issue of Steam local file transfer not working.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Launch your Steam Client and access the Settings panel by clicking on "Steam" in the top left corner, then selecting "Settings."

Step 2. Within the Settings panel, navigate to the "Downloads" tab. At the bottom, you'll see the "Clear Download Cache" button.

Step 3. When prompted, select "OK" to confirm. You'll need to log in to Steam again after clearing the download cache.

Better Alternative: A Professional Program Transfer Tool

If you've tried the troubleshooting steps above and Steam Local File Transfer remains problematic, consider using a dedicated program transfer tool. EaseUS Todo PCTrans Professional offers a straightforward PC-to-PC transfer feature, simplifying the process of moving programs, files, and settings from one computer to another.

It ensures a hassle-free transfer experience, saving you time and effort. With its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities, you can easily migrate your essential programs, including games and data, without any hassle.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Set Up the Old PC

• First, install and launch EaseUS Todo PCTrans and select Data Transfer on the left panel of the main interface.

• Select "Transfer Directly" and click "Next" to continue. 

Step 2. Set Up the New PC

• Download and launch EaseUS Todo PCTrans on the new computer; select "This is New PC" and click "Next".

• Select "Transfer directly" and click "Next" to continue. 
• Select "Network" and click Next to continue. This will automatically scan the old PC. (Make sure the two PCs are connected to the same LAN.)

• Select the target PC and click Connect. Then, it will take some time to scan and analyze the data in old PC.

Step 3. Select the Apps to Transfer

• On the new PC, select the applications you want to transfer. Then, click "Transfer" to start.

Download EaseUS Todo PCTrans Professional today and experience the ease of hassle-free file transfers!

You can use this practical tool to:

Common Causes of Steam Local Network Game Transfers Not Working

When troubleshooting issues with Steam local network game transfers, it's essential to understand the common culprits behind the problem to identify and resolve the root of the problem. Here are some common causes:

You will be able to help other players by clicking the following buttons and sharing this page on your social media.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting Steam local network game transfers requires a systematic approach to identifying and addressing potential issues. From verifying Steam client updates to checking download settings and verifying game file integrity, we've covered various solutions to tackle the problem effectively. However, if you still face challenges, fear not. EaseUS Todo PCTrans offers a seamless PC-to-PC transfer feature, streamlining the process of moving programs, files, and settings from one computer to another so that you can effortlessly migrate essential programs, including games and data, without hassle or downtime.

Download EaseUS Todo PCTrans Professional today and experience the ease of hassle-free file transfers!

FAQs on Steam Local File Transfer Not Working

Do you have more queries regarding Steam local file transfer not working? Check out the FAQs below!

1. What port does Steam local network game transfers use?

Steam Local Network Game Transfers use TCP port 27040 for data transfer. Additionally, UDP ports 27031-27036 are used for client discovery on your local network.

2. How fast is Steam local transfer?

In ideal conditions, you can expect transfer speeds exceeding 100 MB/s. Slower network connections or using Wi-Fi will result in slower transfer speeds.

3. Why is my Steam download so slow but my Internet is fast?

There are several reasons why your Steam downloads might be slow even with a fast internet connection. Double-check your Steam download settings. Ensure there are no restrictions set for download speeds.